Four new films enter the Chinese marketplace this week, and they face the daunting task of challenging “Cinderella”, the current #1 title. “Cinderella” delivered the China’s strongest March debut by raking in more than $25 million thus far.
"Lost and Love", a homegrown drama about a father who spends years looking for his lost child, is emerging as the week’s strongest new release. The film stars Andy Lau and Jing Boran. Lau’s had a string of hits lately with “Firestorm” ($51 million), “Switch” ($49 million) and “Cold War” ($41 million). Also, “Dearest”, another film about lost children, recently earned a solid $56.4 million. According to EntGroup’s EFMT Marketing Index,” Lost and Love” boasts the highest awareness level and the high intent to purchase level out of all four newcomers. There’s no doubt that “Lost and Love” will open to strong numbers, but topping “Cinderella” may be just out of reach.
"Taken 3" looks to build on a healthy run with healthy numbers in China. $205 million of the film’s $294 million global haul comes from territories outside of North America. Chinese audiences have been very receptive to Hollywood’s aging action stars. Case in point: “The Expendables 3” earned nearly $75 million in China compared to only $39.3 million in North America. We feel that “Taken 3” could do quite well.
Also opening: “GunTransit”, a crime film that will likely be overshadowed by “Taken 3”, and “Little Big Master”, a family-friendly effort that will have tough time opening in the shadow of "Cinderella”.
Phil Contrino, Vice President/Chief Analyst of Boxoffice.com contributed to this article.
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EntGroup Consulting is the leading research and consulting company focusing on China’s entertainment industry. A member of ComInsight Information Alliance Group, EntGroup focuses on providing data and information, conducting market research, industry research, consulting, and organizing media conferences. We serve a wide range of clients in areas of film, TV, new media, entertainment marketing and animation.
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About EBOT
EBOT EntGroup Box Office Tracker is a database focusing on the entertainment industry. Created and managed by China's leading entertainment industry research institute, EntGroup, it provides statistics and analysis on film and TV industries, as well as insight on market trends and consumer behaviors. It is an essential tool for entertainment investors, financiers, film production companies, distributors and advertisers. EBOT integrates Box Office data and analysis, moviegoer surveys, advertising insight, buzz tracking and industry research reports.
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