China becomes largest global market for "Alien: Romulus" as film fans fill cinemas

The latest blockbuster release in the long-running "Alien" sci-fi franchise has already proved a huge hit among Chinese moviegoers, with the China box office already eclipsing sales in the U.S. as film fans flock out to see the gripping space drama.

"Alien: Romulus" has led the Chinese box office for 11 consecutive days since its debut on Aug 16, and has so far raked in 76.41 million U.S. dollars in China as of Tuesday, exceeding the 72.8 million earned in North America.

Produced by 20th Century Studios', the movie is the seventh installment of the successful "Alien" franchise, and tells the story of a group of young space colonists who encounter the universe's most terrifying life form while scavenging the deep ends of a derelict space station.

The glowing box office performance shows the strong appetite for sci-fi thrillers among Chinese audiences, with many praising its action-packed viewing experience.

"What makes it enjoyable is the thrill. Superhero movies might not be as popular in the mainland now, as they seem a bit outdated. However, this type of film offers intense scenes and visuals, like the alien bursting out, which are rarely seen on domestic screens. That's why I felt I had to watch it," said a filmgoer in Beijing.

Industry insiders say that filmmakers now have a tough job to impress modern audiences given how saturated the film market is, but believe the success of the latest "Alien" movie proves there is still a passion for cinema.

"Today's audiences have increasingly diverse viewing preferences. The intense film market and audience demands have raised the bar for film content. This film's special effects and storyline meet the expectations of Chinese viewers for Hollywood productions. Additionally, the summer vacation boost and the good reputation of the prequel films allow it to yield a huge box office," said Li Jinbo, general manager of Wanda Cinemas, one of China's largest cinema operators.

China becomes largest global market for "Alien: Romulus" as film fans fill cinemas

The three major global initiatives on development, security, and civilization proposed by President Xi Jinping are worthwhile studying, said Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Store in an interview with China Media Group on Tuesday.

In the interview on a high-speed train from Beijing to Shanghai, Store, who was paying an official visit to China from Monday to Wednesday, said the three global initiatives condense China's fine culture and tradition, noting that he looks forward to the implementation of the initiatives.

"I think they are worthwhile studying. We have all different way of expressing our aspiration for the world. I think there's something recognizable about Chinese culture and tradition in the way President Xi expresses this. I hope it will be followed up, you know, with concrete actions on the international scenes in relations with other countries like mine," he said.

The Global Development Initiative, proposed by Xi at the General Debate of the 76th Session of the United Nations General Assembly in 2021, aims to steer global development toward a new stage of balanced, coordinated and inclusive growth.

The Global Security Initiative was proposed in April 2022, aiming to give clear answers to questions of the times, such as what security concept the world needs and how countries can achieve common security.

The Global Civilization Initiative, put forward in March 2023, calls for upholding the principles of equality, mutual learning, dialog and inclusiveness among civilizations.

Norwegian PM on President Xi's global initiatives