China’s film industry faced significant challenges in 2024, with box office revenues totaling around 42.5 billion RMB ($5.82 billion USD), marking a 22.6% decline from the previous year’s 54.9 billion RMB. A combination of economic factors and a lack of major blockbuster releases contributed to this downturn.
Despite these setbacks, early indicators suggest a potential rebound for China’s box office in 2025.
The film market is already off to a strong start, with box office pre-sales for the Lunar New Year holiday surpassing 525 million RMB (about $73.2 million USD). This optimistic outlook is spurred by a lineup of highly anticipated films set to release throughout the year. These films showcase the Chinese film industry’s commitment to blending cultural storytelling with cutting-edge visuals.
Boonie Bears: Future Reborn
Kicking off the year, the Boonie Bears franchise returns with a futuristic adventure. The lovable bear brothers embark on a time-traveling journey to save their forest home, tackling environmental challenges in an imaginative new era. Bursting with humor, action, and touching moments, it’s a perfect family-friendly offering to start the year.
Release Date: January 2025
Market: China
Creation of the Gods II: Demon Force
This sequel to the hit fantasy epic delves deeper into Chinese mythology with captivating battles and rich storytelling. As tensions rise, heroes and deities face moral dilemmas and epic confrontations that redefine their fates. With breathtaking visuals, an expanded world, and a star-studded cast, it’s poised to be a Lunar New Year blockbuster.
Release Date: February 2025
Markets: China, North America, France, Italy, Australia, Southeast Asia
Ne Zha 2
Building on the breakout success of the original, Ne Zha 2 takes the rebellious deity on a fresh adventure packed with humor and heart. This time, Ne Zha explores his newfound responsibilities while battling ancient foes threatening the mortal realm. With dazzling animation and emotional depth, it promises to thrill fans and newcomers alike.
Release Date: February 2025
Market: China
Detective Chinatown 1900
This prequel to the beloved Detective Chinatown franchise takes viewers back to the origins of the famous detective duo. Set against the backdrop of turn-of-the-century San Francisco intrigue, the film weaves clever mysteries, quirky characters, and high-energy comedy. Expect a blend of suspense, laughter, and historical flavor to charm long-time fans and newcomers alike.
Release Date: February 2025
Markets: China, Southeast Asia, New Zealand, Europe, Australia
Girls on Wire
Vivian Qu’s Girls on Wire is a deeply emotional drama exploring themes of family, resilience, and redemption. Shortlisted for the 75th Berlin International Film Festival, the story charts the difficult yet transformative journey of two estranged cousins over two decades. As they confront personal traumas and societal pressures, their courage inspires a powerful tale of hope and empowerment.
Release Date: March 2025
Markets: China, Germany
Operation Hadal
China’s first deep-sea military espionage film, Operation Hadal, is directed by Dante Lam and promises to be an action-packed thrill ride. Following an elite squad on dangerous underwater missions, the film features breathtaking special effects, edge-of-your-seat sequences, and a gripping storyline highlighting loyalty and sacrifice.
Release Date: Summer 2025
Markets: China, USA
The Legend of the Condor Heroes
Rounding out the year, this adaptation of Louis Cha (aka Jin Yong)’s martial arts classic brings a legendary tale to life. The film follows Guo Jing’s coming-of-age journey as he masters martial arts, navigates love, and battles powerful adversaries. Stunning fight choreography, compelling characters, and a richly woven narrative ensure a cinematic spectacle.
Release Date: Late 2025
Market: China
With a diverse mix of mythical adventures, thrilling deep-sea missions, heartwarming dramas, and gripping historical tales, 2025 is shaping up to be a good year for Chinese cinema.
With a balance of family-friendly animations, suspenseful mysteries, and adaptations of beloved literary classics, this year’s slate ensures there’s something for domestic audiences of all ages and tastes. Only time will tell how much the Chinese film industry will rebound from a rough 2024, and which Chinese films might break out to viewers around the world.
Cover image via YouTube
