Chinese animated film 'All Wishes Come True!' opens nationwide after early release

Chinese animated feature All Wishes Come True! officially opened in theaters nationwide in China on July 18, one week ahead of its originally scheduled release, joining a packed summer lineup of the country's domestic productions.

The film had initially been slated for release on July 24. Following a series of advance screenings and positive audience responses, the producers announced that the nationwide release would be moved forward to July 18, signaling growing confidence in the film's market potential during the peak summer box office period.

Produced by Pearl Studio and distributed by CMC Pictures, All Wishes Come True!is inspired by the classic Chinese folk legend of the Eight Immortals. Rather than retelling the well-known story of "The Eight Immortals Crossing the Sea," the film imagines how eight ordinary people from different backgrounds eventually become the legendary immortals, bringing a fresh blend of fantasy, comedy and adventure to one of China's most enduring myths.

Written and directed by Mu Zhengyang, the film adopts a lighthearted tone that sets it apart from more conventional mythological adaptations. According to the filmmakers, the goal is to present a more relatable story while preserving the spirit of the original folklore.

The release comes as Chinese animation continues to draw on traditional culture for new stories. Recent years have seen a growing number of films inspired by mythology, classical literature and historical figures, with filmmakers increasingly reinterpreting familiar characters through contemporary storytelling.

Industry observers see this creative shift as part of a broader evolution in Chinese animation. Rather than treating ancient legends as fixed narratives, they are exploring new perspectives that make these stories more accessible to younger generations while maintaining their cultural roots.

Beyond the domestic market, All Wishes Come True! is also preparing for an international rollout later this summer, reflecting the growing global ambitions of Chinese animated features. The film is scheduled to open in Malaysia in late August.