This year, the Chinese box office was dominated by animated films, and our top picks for 2025 follow that trend. The spotlight shines on "Kung Fu Harry Potter with a Cat Boy" and the innovative "Journey to the West" with its narrative of corporate culture.
Among the highlights, "Legend of Hei II" stands out. Since its first release in 2019, the series has been celebrated for its intricate 2D animation and compelling storytelling. The sequel presents a world where monsters coexist with humans, exploring themes of war, peace, and socio-political dynamics against the backdrop of gorgeous animation and character design.
Other notable mentions include "Her Story"—a feminist comedy dubbed the Chinese 'Barbie'—and "The Last Dance," a poignant Hong Kong drama set against the COVID-19 pandemic. These films reflect diverse narratives that capture both societal nuances and personal stories.
Total entertainment favorites like "Ne Zha 2" keep the adventure genre alive with vibrant visuals, while "Curious Tales of a Temple" provides a captivating anthology based on Chinese horror stories.
A fresh comedic highlight is "Nobody", an animated comedy inspired by "Journey to the West" which cleverly reverses roles to explore themes of identity and ambition.
These selections not only showcase the creativity of Chinese filmmakers but also offer thought-provoking tales that resonate with audiences globally.