Domestic films shine as China's summer box office tops $812 million

China's 2026 summer box-office revenue, including pre-sales, surpassed 5.5 billion yuan (about $812 million) as of July 25. Total box-office revenue for 2026, including pre-sales, has exceeded 21.2 billion yuan.

Domestic animated film All Wishes Come True has stood out for its fresh take on the Chinese legend of the Eight Immortals. Blending comedy, adventure and traditional Chinese visual elements, the film reimagines the classic tale for contemporary audiences. Since its release on July 18, it has gained strong momentum, with its box office, including pre-sales, surpassing 600 million yuan.

The film is also set for an international rollout, opening in markets including Australia, New Zealand, the United States, Canada and the United Kingdom from mid-August, with additional overseas markets to follow.

Hong Kong director Stephen Chow's comedy Kung Fu Soccer has grossed 1.6 billion yuan. Chinese film Dear You continues its strong run, with its global box office surpassing 2.1 billion yuan. Chinese sci-fi adventure film The Decisive Moment, which officially opened on July 25, earned more than 40 million yuan on its first day.

More than 120 Chinese and international films have been released or are scheduled for release during this year's summer movie season, which runs from June 1 to August 31. The lineup covers genres such as historical, comedy, action, animation and sci-fi.