If “Ever Since We Love”, an adaptation of “The Growth of All Things” by popular Chinese novelist Feng Tang, was opening during any other weekend this year it would have a shot at finishing in first place. As it stands, the local title will face tough competition from “Furious 7”.
Universal’s “Furious 7” is on track to become the highest-grossing film of all time in China after posting a record-breaking first day total of more than $62 million. It’s possible that the racing flick could be the first film to hit $400 million in China—an important milestone.” Furious 7” performed very well during its second weekend—the global haul is now over $800 million—and we expect it to stay strong in China as well.
According to EntGroup EFMT Marketing Index, “Ever Since We Love” has the highest awareness and intent to purchase levels of any new release this week. Star Fan Bingbing is likely the main cause of such high interest. We expect a strong second place finish.
"Ever Since We Love” will do well with twentysomethings and teens who have been a huge driving force in the market. Major recent hits aimed at younger crowds include “So Young” ($114.8 million), “Fleet of Time “($95 million) and “Tiny Time 3” ($84.8 million).
"Mortdecai”, Johnny Depp’s latest star vehicle, will try to soften the blow of weak global numbers by opening in China. While Depp certainly has a strong following in China, expectations are low for the slapstick comedy.
Five other homegrown titles also open this week: “Time Is Money”, “Gun Transit”, “Murmur of the Hearts”, “Scary Road is Fun” and “The Queen”. All of them will have a tough time competing in a crowded market.
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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