"Monkey King: Hero Is Back" is one of the most successful animated films in China. (Photo : Reuters)
China's box office welcomes summer with films that capture both young and adult audiences.
Monkey King: Hero Is Back
First off the list is the local anime, "Monkey King: Hero Is Back." The animated film based on Journey to the West, a traditional Chinese tale, features the westward travel of a Buddhist monk together with his three disciples.
Forever Young
What makes this film interesting is the fact that it revolves around the exciting life of a college student, rather than the usual stories of teenage rebellion, treachery and abortion. Directed by He Jiong, the movie centers on the journey of a college student, his dream of joining a band, and the love and friendship that he builds throughout the journey.
Hollywood Adventure
Powdered Rhino horns have been banned worldwide because rhinos are among the world's endangered species. This brings tragedy to three friends who got into a case of international smuggling when authorities have found with them a pack of the prohibited, powdered rhino horn. The movie is still showing in cinemas.
Monster Hunt
The unexpected happened when Song Tianmeng, an ordinary man, became pregnant with a monster. It would have been simple if it was just a typical monster, but it was not. Song Tianmeng gives birth to the future king of monsters, Hu Ba. This leads to a wild journey to keep the tiny monster away from evil forces on Earth.
Monk Comes Down the Mountain
Fans of kung fu can marvel in "Monk Comes Down the Mountain." The movie starts with a simple monk who decides to venture into the far city and leave the isolated mountain. His trip is not easy as he gets engaged in conspiracies and bumps into a series of strange characters. The movie is currently showing in cinemas.
I Am Somebody
The film features a group of amateur actors and actresses follow their dreams and build their futures while playing minor roles. It gives tribute to the nameless extras in cinemas and enlightens the audience on the cruel world of showbiz.
Jian Bing Man
The movie introduces Da Peng, the central character, who has reached the lowest point in life due to an accident. In an attempt to regain his normal life and career, he accepts a film contract without any hint that this could be a sinkhole to further dilemmas.
Only You
The movie tells the story of a bride-to-be who ventures into a foreign country, Italy, in search of her true love. She believes that this person is her destiny. This romantic comedy film is a remake of a 1994 namesake Hollywood production, and features award-winning actress Tang Wei.
The Assassin
At just 10 years old, Nie Yinniang, the protagonist, was abducted by a Taoist nun. She is then trained to become a professional assassin 13 years later. The twist comes when Nie is given the task to kill a man who happened to be his cousin and a prominent official. Nie struggles with the dilemma, as she does not want to go against the nun, but also hesitates to slay her target. The film is scheduled for release on Aug. 27.
The Crossing: Part 2
A sequel to John Woo's "The Crossing: Part 1," this film offers more heartfelt scenes as well as heartbreaking stories. It revolves around the story of a sinking cruise ship, The Crossing, which is often regarded as the Chinese version of The Titanic, in the 1940s. The movie will be released in theaters on July 30.
