Dune 2 made a triumphant entrance into mainland China cinemas this past weekend, pulling in an impressive $19.9 million in just three days. While it came in second place, narrowly trailing behind the crime-drama “The Pig, the Snake, and the Pigeon,” this strong opening indicates a promising trajectory for the film.
According to data from Artisan Gateway, “The Pig, the Snake, and the Pigeon” grossed $21.3 million (RMB151 million) from Friday to Sunday, accumulating a total of $54.1 million (RMB384 million) over ten days. On the other hand, “Dune 2” managed to amass RMB142 million during the same period.
China has been a challenging market for Hollywood films in recent years, especially franchise titles. However, “Dune 2” seems to have found its stride, captivating audiences with its visually stunning effects and grandeur.
Imax, the giant screen provider with almost 800 screens across China, reported that it accounted for approximately $6.5 million of “Dune 2’s” opening weekend box office, representing nearly one-third of its total earnings in China.
Encouraged by the film’s early success, local cinema ticketing firm Maoyan has revised its predictions for “Dune 2’s” performance in China. They now anticipate a lifetime total of RMB560 million or $78 million, surpassing the $38 million earned by the previous installment, “Dune,” directed by Denis Villeneuve in 2021.
Away from the sci-fi epic, another noteworthy film that garnered attention over the weekend was “The Pig, the Snake, and the Pigeon.” Directed by Hong Kong’s Wong Ching-po and starring Ethan Juan, this Taiwanese production tells the story of a gangster who, after discovering he has cancer and limited time left, decides to eliminate the two higher-ranked criminals in the country to secure his position as the third most wanted outlaw.
Additionally, the Chinese romantic drama “I Miss You,” directed by Han Yan and adapted from a novel by Zheng Zhi, claimed the second spot among new releases and third place overall at the local box office. The film earned an impressive $13.6 million (RMB96.6 million) in just three days, portraying the story of a couple who have a second chance at love but almost miss out on it again.
Rounding out the weekend’s box office charts were two films released in early February, both tied to the Lunar New Year celebrations. Zhang Yimou’s “Article 20” secured fourth place with $8.4 million, accumulating a total of $334 million, while Han Han’s “Pegasus 2” followed in fifth place with $6.8 million, reaching a total of $469 million.
This captivating performance by “Dune 2” at the China box office has undoubtedly reinvigorated the franchise’s prospects, giving fans hope for more exhilarating adventures to come.
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