Oscar-winning Japanese animation film The Boy and the Heron has made a significant impact at the mainland China box office, earning a remarkable $34.9 million over the weekend and a total of $73 million during its five-day opening run. The film, produced by Studio Ghibli, had already seen success in its native Japan before its release in China, where it quickly captured the attention of audiences.
Unlike most films that debut on Fridays in China, The Boy and the Heron was strategically released on a Wednesday to coincide with the Qingming public holiday, allowing it to capitalize on the extended weekend. Data from consultancy firm Artisan reveals that the film grossed RMB248 million ($34.9 million) over the traditional Friday-to-Sunday period, with an additional RMB270 million ($38.1 million) from Wednesday and Thursday showings, marking the biggest opening of the year for a non-mainland Chinese movie.
