China’s 2026 Spring Festival film season recorded strong growth. Total box office revenue reached 2.53 billion yuan ($366 million). According to movie data platform Beacon Pro, the Shanghai-produced film Pegasus 3 led the market. Its box office surpassed 1.297 billion yuan, including pre-sales.
It became the first film this season to cross the 1-billion-yuan milestone.Data from China’s ticketing platform Maoyan showed the total 2026 box office exceeded 5 billion yuan by 11:14 am on Thursday. The top three films so far are Pegasus 3, Zootropolis 2, and The Fire Raven.
Among leading titles, Pegasus 3 topped the chart with 1.297 billion yuan. Scare Out followed with over 436 million yuan. Boonie Bears: The Hidden Protector earned more than 333 million yuan.In addition, Blades of the Guardians: Wind Rises in the Desert generated over 293 million yuan. Panda Plan 2 brought in more than 107 million yuan.
Pegasus 3 continues the franchise’s racing theme. It follows Zhang Chi and his companions as they begin a new chapter in life. The film blends speed, humor, and emotional storytelling. A blogger on Sina Weibo predicted the film’s total box office could exceed 5 billion yuan. Racing is usually a niche theme, making a national blockbuster difficult.
Another reviewer, BaiShaHebian from Shandong, said overall performance depends on audience feedback and attendance. He noted Pegasus 3 currently leads. Meanwhile, Blades of the Guardians: Wind Rises in the Desert is gaining momentum. Boonie Bears: The Hidden Protector maintains steady attendance.
Scare Out is a spy film directed by Zhang Yimou. It focuses on national security and suspenseful themes. The Spring Festival lineup also includes family-friendly and martial arts films, offering audiences a wide range of choices for the holiday season.

