10 highest-grossing films in China in 2018

By Zhang Rui: 0 Comment(s)Print E-mail China.org.cn, January 14, 2019

6. Monster Hunt 2

China's Spring Festival national holiday season has become the country's most profitable time frame for theaters nationwide to host movie fans and their families to entertain and celebrate the lunar New Year with, sometimes, unreasonable and go-as-you-please consumption. Therefore, various tentpole films chose to open in this season to maximize the box office profits. Thanks to its predecessor, which made history by grossing 2.44 billion yuan (US$381.86 million) in 2016 and was once the highest-grossing film of all time in Chinese film market, Raman Hui's fantasy adventure blockbuster "Monster Hunt 2," still centered on a cute and weird creature named Huba, had the highest expectations before its debut as catering for a family audience. It still owns the highest presale record by earning 294 million yuan (US$42.87 million) via ticketing platforms before it was actually released, as well as creating the highest opening day and single day records with ticket sales of 546.86 million yuan (US$79.75 million). However, ensuing bad reviews over its alleged childish storyline, boring characters, awkward acting and the directorial mess, ensured the film lost momentum very soon. Although still one of the highest-grossing films ever, it was indeed a big letdown for the audience who grew fond of and were surprised by the first installment.

Release date in China:Feb. 16, 2018 (Edko Films)

China gross:2.23 billion yuan (US$356.33 million)

North America gross:US$706,153

Worldwide:US$361.68 million