China’s film market experienced a record-breaking Lunar New Year, with total box office revenue reaching RMB9.51 billion ($1.31 billion) over the seven-day holiday period ending Feb. 4. This surpasses last year’s record of $1.09 billion and marks an all-time high for the period.
Imax saw its most successful Lunar New Year yet, generating $53 million in box office receipts – a 57% increase from its previous record. The premium format exhibitor logged its highest-ever holiday attendance, with 5.5 million moviegoers flocking to Imax screens.
Leading the charge was Enlight Media’s “Ne Zha 2,” which dominated the competition with $665.7 million in box office revenue and secured the biggest opening weekend ever for an animated film in Imax. The sequel to 2019’s runaway hit also notched a massive $36 million in Imax, cementing its position as China’s highest-grossing Lunar New Year title.
The success of “Ne Zha 2” has significant implications for the Chinese film industry and Imax’s strategy. With its Lunar New Year success fueling its approach, Imax is continuing to roll out its local language slate globally. The format plans to release its slate in select locations across 11 countries, including Australia and New Zealand, which will see “Ne Zha 2” hit Imax theaters starting Feb. 6.
Industry experts are optimistic about the future of Chinese cinema, citing a trend towards established IPs in 2025 Lunar New Year films. With its momentum continuing, Imax is confident it can carry this through to what is poised to be one of the strongest years for Chinese local language films.
Source: https://variety.com/2025/film/box-office/china-box-office-lunar-new-year-records-imax-1236297796