Data from an online box office tracker showed that China's 2026 summer box office, including presales, has exceeded 7 billion yuan (about 1.04 billion U.S. dollars) as of Thursday -- the latest sign that the country's film market is sizzling with energy and momentum.

This year's summer slate offers something for everyone, with a rich lineup spanning animation, drama, sci-fi, comedy, and more. The diverse films have not only fueled cultural spending but also kindled the public's passion for the big screen.
Among the standout releases, the animated feature "All Wishes Come True!" -- a fresh take on a beloved Chinese legend -- has emerged as a clear winner, crossing the one-billion-yuan mark on its own. With its stunning visuals, heartfelt storytelling, and faithful yet creative adaptation of the classic tale, the film has struck a chord with families and younger viewers alike.
Riding the wave of this nationwide movie craze, a new pastime has taken off this summer: "learning science through film." Tapping into high-quality cinematic content to unlock fascinating science knowledge, audiences can immerse themselves in the wonders of science and culture beyond just watching the movie.
During the summer break, Liaoning Science and Technology Museum in Shenyang, northeast China's Liaoning Province, launched a public screening program at its 4D theater, featuring a curated selection of science-themed films, classic revolutionary movies, and science micro-films.
"We're using our 4D theater to screen a number of micro-films that celebrate the legacy of China's pioneering scientists. Through the power of film, we hope to pass the torch and inspire a new generation with the spirit of scientific exploration," said Zhang Jinghua, director of the museum.
The museum is equipped with a range of special theaters, including a dome-screen theater, a 4D theater, and a flying theater. Among them, the theater featuring an IMAX GT screen has been a favorite, drawing flocks of moviegoers.
Beyond the screenings themselves, the museum has woven these film events into a full suite of hands-on educational activities, turning a simple movie visit into an entire day of discovery. It's a refreshing and enriching summer outing that families with children are finding hard to resist.
"After watching the film, we went to explore the corresponding exhibition halls. It really helped expand his knowledge reserve. He also learned a lot of things that aren't in the textbooks," said a mother who took her son to the museum.