Chinese films achieved notable international success in 2025, screening in 46 countries and regions worldwide and serving as a vital cultural bridge by enhancing global audiences’ understanding of China.
In Canada, more than 10 Chinese films in different styles were screened in the country's largest cinema in 2025, receiving positive audience feedback.
"I have seen a few Chinese animations, but I think one of the things that was like most unique about them was the detail, the quality of the animation, brings up both. As someone who hasn't been to China like me, it's really like, seeing animation and knowing about China, is impressive honestly," said Sofia Cervantes, a college student of Vancouver Film School.
In December, Canada held Chinese Film Week to encourage local moviegoers expand their cinematic horizons and learn about Chinese culture.
"I can see China's trying to make stuff with more international box office appeal. I think it's an important thing for China to reach out to a broader international market. I think that China has certain things -- like history, and of course there's the action films that can reach a broader audience," said Canadian filmmaker Bruce Fontaine.
Chinese films also received a welcome at the box office in the New Zealand market in 2025. New Zealand industry insiders said Chinese cinema’s artistry and technical finesse offer valuable experience for the world, which also lays a solid foundation for deeper film and television cooperation between China and New Zealand.
"What's happening in the Chinese market that China is moving ahead at great speed, with AI, in terms of all sorts of different technologies, but including cinema. So there's a lot to learn," said Matthew Horrocks, manager of Screen Auckland.
Chinese movies enjoy good box office performances overseas in 2025
Hong Kong's first astronaut lifted off into space on Sunday, sparking a wave of enthusiasm for space exploration in the special administrative region, while inspiring a new generation to look to the stars.
The Shenzhou-23 crewed spaceship, atop a Long March-2F carrier rocket, blasted off from the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center in northwest China at 23:08 (Beijing Time) on Sunday. The crew members include Lai Ka-ying, the first astronaut and payload specialist from Hong Kong to join a national space mission, whose achievements have motivated many Hong Kong residents.
"I feel so happy and thrilled. This is the first time a Hong Kong astronaut has gone to space, and to see a true Hong Konger, who is also a mother of three, just really touches my heart," said Chow, a local resident.
The successful spaceflight of Lai has especially captivated the younger generation to dream bigger about the future.
"I want to be an astronaut, because I want to discover more things about space," said a young student surnamed Chow.
"I have seen things related to spaceflights of astronauts. I hope when I grow up, I could receive training and go to space myself," said another student surnamed Koo.
To meet public expectations, the Hong Kong Space Museum has updated its space-themed exhibition with the latest development of the Shenzhou-23 mission, extending the display until July 6. Parents are seizing the moment to enrich their children's knowledge.
"At his age, I want him to be exposed to a wide range of information. With all the recent astronaut news, I brought him here specially to see for himself. We will also check out a film about space knowledge at the planetarium. I hope he can get more out of this from an early age," said Cheung, a father.
"We just watched the Shenzhou-23 launch at home with my son last night, and decided to take him to the Space Museum," a mother surnamed Chun shared.
"I saw on TV that so many people were cheering for the launch. When the rocket was launched, fire burst out from its body. I was really happy they succeeded," said Chun's son.
Hong Kong's first astronaut ignites citywide enthusiasm over space exploration
