The Chinese comedy "Successor" topped the Chinese mainland box office with preview screenings on July 13, finally bringing heat to the lukewarm film market.

Cast and crew of "Successor" pose for a group photo at the premiere held in Beijing, July 13, 2024. [Photo courtesy of PFDM Media]

Starring hugely popular comedians Shen Teng and Ma Li, and directed by Yan Fei and Peng Damo, the film follows a wealthy couple who disguise themselves as poor rural residents to better educate their second child in a harsh environment. This decision comes after their first child fails to meet their expectations, sparking concerns that their privileged lifestyle may hinder their children's development.

Yan and Peng's 2015 breakout comedy "Goodbye Mr. Loser," adapted from a Mahua FunAge stage production, paved the way for numerous successful FunAge-style comedy films that have grossed billions of yuan over the past decade. 

At the July 13 premiere, the directors reflected on their three-film collaboration over the past decade. They shared that they had experienced three stages of life during that time: youth, establishment, and fatherhood. "Time has brought life reflections, inspiring our desire to express," Yan said.

Peng added, "Seeing China's comedy genre becoming increasingly competitive, we dare not make the slightest mistakes in comedy creation and will continue to strive."

Shen and Ma, who rose to stardom in "Goodbye Mr. Loser," also reflected on their growth. "Although perfectly interpreting the role is very difficult, with the encouragement of my partner Ma, the help of the directors, and the support of everyone here, I can always make it through step by step," Shen said.

"Ten years ago, nobody knew us," said Ma. "Ten years later, we stand here, and everyone is looking forward with anticipation. It hasn't been easy for the friends who have walked this journey with us. We are very grateful to everyone."

A poster for "Successor." [Photo courtesy of Wanda Pictures]

"Successor," reminiscent of a Chinese education-themed version of "The Truman Show," has met expectations, drawing loud laughter from audiences. On July 13, nationwide previews alongside the premiere event propelled it to No. 1 on China's daily box office chart, grossing 157 million yuan ($22 million). The momentum continued through the weekend, with the two-day preview taking in 358 million yuan.

The film is set for official release across China on July 16. This summer, the Chinese film market has been tepid, lacking standout releases to invigorate moviegoer excitement. Total box office earnings lag behind previous years, highlighting a need for impactful films. "Successor" is poised to energize the market significantly and potentially become a box office phenomenon.

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