Chapter 119: The Box Office
On July 30th, the animated movie "Your Name" was officially released.
During this period, leveraging the popularity of "Ultraman Tiga," Leo promoted it further using the Porter's name.
At Xinghua Cinema
It was already 9:30 in the evening.
The waiting hall outside Theater No. 3 was still crowded with people.
Most of them were there to see "Your Name."
Of course, some had never read the manga but came because they knew the movie was by the same author as "Ultraman Tiga."
As the hall filled with the melodious, ancient-sounding music, over 300 spectators exited the theater.
Some couples embraced.
Others had blank faces, while some showed traces of tears.
Life's myriad expressions were all present.
"So, how was it, buddy? Was the movie good?"
"How does it compare to the manga?"
Though they were strangers, some couldn't help but ask the previous audience members.
It's known that manga adaptations, while based on the original manga, can vary greatly in quality.
Sometimes, a great manga can be ruined by an unreliable production company.
"Blow it up, it's the best manga adaptation movie of the year!!"
"The animated film surpasses the manga, in my opinion! The scene with the comet streaking across the sky was absolutely beautiful!"
"Every frame could be a wallpaper! It's a shame not to watch it!"
"True to the Porter's style, I feel it even outshines the manga. The music added such an emotional depth, I cried!"
Hearing these comments, the crowd waiting for the next showing felt relieved.
Daniel felt the same way.
He could have attended the premiere, but something came up, so he had to see it today.
With a budget of 70 million, regardless of his love for the manga, Daniel, as a fan of the Porter, had to show his support.
Entering the theater, he waited about five minutes. As a meteor streaked across the sky accompanied by beautiful music, the movie began.
To be honest.
The plot didn't differ much from the manga.
But this time, it captured Daniel's attention more.
Many elements that the manga couldn't fully convey were beautifully displayed on the big screen.
Especially the comet in the sky.
In the manga, it was a still image, but seeing it move made it even more beautiful.
Paired with the music, it gave a unique feeling.
Daniel intended to take notes on his thoughts to post later.
Until...
The movie ended.
"…"
Daniel looked at his notepad.
Not a single word was written.
He had been completely immersed in the beautiful visuals.
"Well, I'll just have to watch it again."
Daniel scratched his head, deciding to record his thoughts properly next time.
...
Time passed, and soon a day had gone by.
At midnight, cinemas nationwide sent their preliminary box office figures to the Film Industry Association. Shortly after, all association members received the first day's box office data.
"Your Name" grossed 95.3 million yuan on its opening day.
This number shook the entire industry!
The summer release period is one of the most competitive in the film industry!
As the longest holiday period of the year, it's when many high-quality films are released.
And 95.3 million! This achievement made "Your Name" the summer box office champion so far, indicating its high quality!
"95.3 million!"
In the quiet night, Leo couldn't hide his astonishment.
But upon learning the results, his expression turned to one of sheer delight.
"95.3 million!"
Repeating the figure, Leo suppressed his excitement and covered his face.
"Hahahahahaha!"
Though professionally trained to remain composed, he couldn't help but laugh.
He knew from his friend that this first-day box office result placed the film among the top seven highest-grossing animated films in history!
Over the years, only a few manga artists had achieved such success, and they were already established legends. Ren was now on par with them!
They had hit the jackpot!
This was only the first day, with great potential for more.
Though they had to share some profits with Picca Comics per the contract, Leo didn't mind. The investment had already paid off, and there was much more to gain.
Moreover, this collaboration had brought significant publicity, likely attracting more fans. The benefits weren't just monetary.
Honestly, when he first partnered with Picca Comics, he expected profit but not this much!
"Such a pity..."
Leo sighed.
He had heard that Picca Comics recently started an animation company.
This likely meant fewer opportunities for collaboration in animated films.
However, Leo soon smiled.
He realized something.
While "Your Name" was his company's investment, the main person behind it was Ren, the Porter.
Given the film's success, the Big Five studios would surely take notice.
The Big Five controlled many theater chains, making distribution a challenge.
"Looks like there will be plenty of opportunities for cooperation," Leo said, raising his glass.
After all, theaters were crucial. Though his company didn't have as many as the Big Five or Jia Rong, it still held a significant market share.
...
As Leo predicted.
After seeing the box office results, the Big Five's executives took immediate action.
They had heard about Picca Comics starting an animation company.
Initially, they didn't pay much attention, but now, with today's success, it was clear they were a serious contender.
They couldn't believe how capable Ren was.
They decided that if Picca Comics released animated films in the future, they would set very high requirements for screening them in their theaters.
However, the targeting stopped there.
While Picca Comics was growing rapidly, it couldn't yet match the Big Five's deep roots.
Even Jia Rong, which had entered the market aggressively, now had to defend itself passively. Picca Comics couldn't compare to them just yet. This was their confidence.
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