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Niu Lai animated film becomes viral box-office hit in China
The Chinese animated film ‘Niu Lai’ (Cow Comes) has transformed from a box-office failure into a viral sensation. Initially released on August 5 with virtually no promotion, the film earned only about 7,700 yuan in its first ten days. However, following intense mockery on social media regarding its rudimentary 3D animation, jarring voice acting, and illogical transitions, the film experienced a massive surge in popularity driven by internet meme culture and curiosity.
As of mid-August, the film's cumulative box office has surpassed 18 million yuan, allowing it to compete with major Hollywood productions like ‘Spider-Man’ in Chinese theaters. The production is notable for its extremely limited scale; it was created over five years by a mother-and-son duo, Xin Yumeng and Sun Lifang, with no professional animation studio support. The film’s title has even gained traction among stock market investors who view the name as a symbol for a ‘bull market.’
Entities
China · Dalian Jingyuan Culture Film and Television Media · Maoyan · Niu Lai · Niu Lai · Sun Lifang · Xin Yumeng
Claims
What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.
- [● 2 SOURCES] The film's title, 'Niu Lai', is interpreted by some investors as a symbol for a bull market. www.verse.com.tw · macaudailytimes.com.mo
- [● 2 SOURCES] The film features rudimentary 3D animation and has been described as 'ugly' and 'eerie'. katadata.co.id · macaudailytimes.com.mo
- [● 3 SOURCES] The film's single-day revenue reached 8.2 million yuan on August 18. www.verse.com.tw · katadata.co.id · macaudailytimes.com.mo
- [● 2 SOURCES] The total box office revenue has reached approximately 17.1 million yuan. katadata.co.id · macaudailytimes.com.mo
- [● 3 SOURCES] The film earned approximately 10,000 yuan in its first 10 days of release. www.verse.com.tw · katadata.co.id · macaudailytimes.com.mo
- [○ 1 SOURCE] The film was produced over five years by director Xin Yumeng and his mother, Sun Lifan. macaudailytimes.com.mo