China’s film industry is off to a blockbuster start in 2024! The Chinese mainland’s box office has already raked in 6.4 billion yuan ($890 million) this year, surpassing North America to become the world’s #1 movie market, per data from Maoyan. That’s like selling out over 1 billion movie tickets —and we’re only three months in!
The ongoing Spring Festival holiday (an eight-day cinematic bonanza ) has fueled the surge, with presales and ticket revenues topping 3.4 billion yuan ($473 million). Homegrown films dominated the charts, led by the inspirational comedy YOLO, followed by workplace satire Johnny Keep Walking! and racing sequel Pegasus 2.
But this is just the opening scene. A PwC report predicts China’s cinema revenue will hit $13.2 billion by 2027, claiming 27% of the global market—ahead of the U.S. at 23%. Analysts say China’s film industry is ‘leveling up’ , with more diverse stories and growing international appeal.
So, what’s next? More locally-produced hits, innovative genres, and maybe even a crossover moment for Chinese films worldwide. Stay tuned!
The Chinese mainland’s box office has already raked in 6.4 billion yuan ($890 million) this year, surpassing North America to become the world’s #1 movie market, per data from Maoyan. That’s like selling out over 1 billion movie tickets 
—and we’re only three months in!
) has fueled the surge, with presales and ticket revenues topping 3.4 billion yuan ($473 million). Homegrown films dominated the charts, led by the inspirational comedy YOLO, followed by workplace satire Johnny Keep Walking! and racing sequel Pegasus 2.
, with more diverse stories and growing international appeal.
