China’s box office experienced a massive surge during the Lunar New Year holiday from February 17 to 22, generating RMB 4.47 billion ($647.4 million) over the six-day period. Artisan Gateway data highlights how major releases launched on Tuesday propelled the market to briefly claim the title of the world’s highest-grossing film territory for 2026.
Pegasus 3 Leads the Pack
Racing-comedy Pegasus 3 claimed the top spot, pulling in $369.3 million in its opening six days. Han Han directs this third franchise entry, which stars Shen Teng as racer Zhang Chi. He guides an underdog national team through the intense international Muchen 100 Rally.
Strong Contenders Follow
Zhang Yimou’s espionage thriller Scare Out landed second with $110.7 million. The film features Jackson Yee and Zhu Yilong in a tense counterintelligence mission to halt the leak of sensitive classified data.
Third place went to the martial arts epic Blades of the Guardians, which earned $97.3 million (RMB 691 million). Yuen Woo-ping helms this adaptation of a hit manhua, starring Wu Jing, Nicholas Tse, and Jet Li. Mercenary Dao Ma navigates treacherous Western Region deserts on an escort mission for a enigmatic fugitive to Chang’an, ensnared in a plot with sweeping national stakes.
Animation favorite Boonie Bears: The Hidden Protector, the 12th installment from Fantawild, secured fourth at $89.7 million (RMB 637 million). Briar, Bramble, and Vick dive into fresh exploits in Eve City.
Jackie Chan’s action-comedy sequel Panda Plan 2 rounded out the top five with $24.6 million (RMB 175 million). Derek Hui directs Chan as he safeguards panda Hu Hu from global thieves after discovering a remote tribe that reveres the animal as vital to their existence.
Year-to-date totals for 2026 stand at $1.08 billion, reflecting a 64.6% decline from the prior year. However, the holiday boom substantially closes the gap for the spring season.
