Total returns for two Chinese blockbusters "Flowers of War" and "Flying Swords of Dragon Gate" have so far amounted to billions yuan. And with the final figures yet to be revealed. But it's not all celebrations, and there's a more complex tale to be told.
Last year, more than 500 Chinese-made movies hit the screens.
Many performed less than impressively, compared to previous years. Chinese audiences are maturing, and no longer choose to watch a movie based on big names alone.
A cinema goer said, "I will not watch a film because there is a super star. I'll judge it as a whole, including the script-writing, directing and other factors."
Two Chinese blockbusters "Flowers of War" and "Flying Swords of Dragon Gate" became big hits at the end of last year. But the top three movies of 2011 were all from abroad.
Gao Jun, film critic, said, "Some people say blockbusters in 2011 were not as good as expected. I have to admit it's true. But I don't agree that the 2011 film market did not prosper, a lot of low-budget films were very good."
2011 was a year for medium and low budget films.
"Love Is Not Blind" is just one that became a box office miracle. The movie drew 350 million yuan, but only costs 89 million to make.
Gao Jun said, "We hope there'll be more high quality Chinese blockbusters in 2012. The box office and film market can't just rely on medium and low budget films."
A lack of good scripts is another problem blighting the Chinese film industry.
Zhang Heping, chairman of Beijing Film Assoc., said, "There are a lot of scripts, but very few are good. A good script should have an influential social effect and should also meet the demand of market. It's not an easy job."
To solve the problem, the Beijing Film Association is holding training sessions for writers.
Chinese film makers still have a long way to go, if they're to take the lead at the box office.