China's summer box office hits 2 billion yuan as school holidays begin

China's summer box office has topped 2 billion yuan (around $294 million), according to box-office tracker Maoyan. New film releases and movie-themed events are helping draw audiences during the school holidays.

This year's lineup covers a wide range of genres, including history, comedy, animation, science fiction and drama. Chinese productions such as All Wishes Come True, The Decisive Moment and Make Zhonghe Great Again are among the major releases. International titles including Spider-Man: Brand New Day, The Odyssey and Moana 2 are also helping keep theaters busy this summer.

The summer season is also driving spending beyond the box office. Cities across China have launched "movie-plus" activities that combine film with tourism, traditional culture, science education and shopping.

In Guangdong, popular films have inspired themed exhibitions and travel promotions. Anhui and Sichuan are organizing science workshops, family screenings and community film events.

Shanghai and Zhejiang are linking cinemas with shopping districts and tourist attractions, encouraging visitors to combine a movie with dining, shopping or sightseeing. Many cinemas are also offering student discounts and hosting themed exhibitions, character meet-and-greets and other interactive activities during the summer holidays.