As we conclude the 2024 National Day film season today, the box office has impressively surpassed 2 billion yuan as of 12:22 PM on October 7. This year’s festival, which ran from October 1 to October 7, featured an extraordinary lineup, showcasing not only impressive box office figures but also a diverse selection of films, lower ticket prices, and creative experiences like “traveling with movies.”
On the very first day of the holiday, box office receipts exceeded 494 million yuan, outpacing last year’s numbers. With 464,000 screenings that day, this set a new record for National Day in the history of Chinese cinema.
As China’s economy continues to recover, the consumer market is bouncing back rapidly, providing a boost to the film industry.
Diversity has been crucial this year! A total of 10 new films were released, spanning a wide array of genres such as action, war, sci-fi, comedy, animation, and musicals—offering viewers an abundant selection. Titles like “The Volunteer Army: Battle for Survival” tackle the intense battles of the Korean War, while “749 Bureau” presents a captivating sci-fi narrative set in the near future. In contrast, “The Road of Fire” delivers a gripping story about three parents confronting human traffickers. With their varied themes and styles, this year’s offerings provide audiences with a myriad of choices.
Emotional storytelling has taken the spotlight this season, with “The Volunteer Army: Battle for Survival” emerging as the box office champion. The film resonates powerfully, illustrating the challenges and unwavering determination of the Volunteer Army while stirring patriotic feelings among viewers. Recently, soldiers from the Beijing Armed Police viewed the film, and a particularly impactful moment, where a lieutenant urges perseverance, resonated deeply with audiences in theaters and online.
We’re also witnessing new avenues for cinematic experiences. The film “Only Green,” adapted from a stage play and featuring the original production team, has been praised for its engaging storytelling and rich portrayal of the traditional artwork “A Thousand Miles of Rivers and Mountains.” This broader approach invites audiences to explore traditional culture while enhancing the appeal of cinema.
Additionally, the “Travel with Movies” initiative gained traction during this year’s National Day holiday. Films like “Panda Project,” which depicts a celebrity safeguarding adorable panda cubs, have stimulated tourism connected to their themes. These films encourage travelers to participate in themed activities that correlate with the movie experience, transforming screenings into multifaceted adventures.
Lastly, various government initiatives have been implemented to promote film consumption, including discounts and vouchers that have attracted more viewers to theaters. With average ticket prices around 41 yuan—the lowest in four years—affordability has played a significant role in boosting attendance. Multiple provinces have rolled out their own incentives, further strengthening the relationship between film offerings and the broader economic recovery.
Looking ahead, the synergy of culture, tourism, and cinema, combined with ongoing governmental support, paints a promising picture for the future of the film industry in China. The excitement surrounding this National Day film season reflects not only the vibrancy of cinema but also the resilient spirit of the economy as a whole.
