Countdown to 2026 with China's must-see New Year films

China's New Year holiday movie season is underway, gaining momentum with rising advance ticket sales. For many, going to the cinema has become part of the festive tradition. This year’s holiday releases span a variety of genres, including comedy, action, suspense, romance, and fantasy, offering audiences plenty of options.

"Unexpected Family" is a light-hearted comedy about an elderly landlord and his tenants. Through a series of mix-ups, they form an unlikely family unit. The film focuses on companionship and everyday warmth, making it a relaxed holiday watch.

For those drawn to tense, high-stakes stories, "Escape from the Outland" plots the journey of a Chinese journalist and a volunteer doctor abducted overseas just as they are about to return home. They spend 105 days in captivity alongside other hostages and attempt a daring escape under constant threat.

"The Fire Raven" is a crime thriller centered on a cold case that resurfaces 15 years later. A man who witnessed a murder teams up with a determined police officer to investigate a string of anonymous killings. The appearance of a masked vigilante and a hidden network of power, money, and desire heighten the suspense.

For fans of the original series, the big-screen return of "A Step into the Past" offers plenty of nostalgia. A time traveler returns to protect history when modern-armed intruders arrive in the Qin Dynasty. With the original cast reunited and upgraded visual effects, it’s a thrilling New Year choice.