Epic titles made for IMAX screens!
By Billy Jiang
Let's take a look at the four must-watch international movies coming to Chinese theaters this December.
The Running Man
December 5
Directed by Baby Driver 's Edgar Wright and starring rising star Glen Powell, The Running Man is based on the dystopian novel by Stephen King (yes, the same author behind The Shining and The Shawshank Redemption, but published it under his pseudonym Richard Bachman).
The film also features an all-star cast including Josh Brolin, Colman Domingo, and Lee Pace.
The Running Man (1987)
While fans may remember the 1987 cult version starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, this adaptation is a fresh take—even closer to Stephen King's original, darker vision.
The Running Man (2025)
The Running Man (2025)
In a not-so-distant future, a deadly reality show called "The Running Man" has become society's obsession—contestants must outrun professional killers in a brutal survival broadcast streamed live to the masses.
If you like high-stakes 'death game' movies with explosive visuals and biting satire, this thriller is your December must-watch.
Witness for the Prosecution
December 5
Get ready for a true gem—the classic 1957 courtroom drama Witness for the Prosecution is making its way back to the big screen.
Adapted from Agatha Christie's famous stage play, this film by Billy Wilder redefined courtroom thrillers and earned six Oscar nominations.
To this day, it's still widely considered the best courtroom drama ever made—sharp, suspenseful, and full of twists that hold up brilliantly.
Fun fact for new viewers: In China, Agatha Christie is affectionately nicknamed 阿婆 ('Ah Po' — Granny) by readers, a sign of just how beloved she is across generations.
Note that this film is being screened in select cinemas only, with both the original English version and a new Chinese dub—double-check when booking!
Avatar: Fire and Ash
December 19
The third Avatar movie is finally here, and early reactions say this one might just be the best yet.
Critics are calling it a visual masterpiece, emotionally richer than its predecessors, with jaw-dropping effects and a darker, more complex tone.
Director James Cameron teased before release: "So far I've only shown the good side of the Na'vi. The first two films showed bad humans and idealistic Na'vi. In Fire and Ash, we flip that dynamic."
Expect new cultures, new creatures, and a deeper dive into the inner lives of familiar characters—along with a powerful new villain that's getting plenty of buzz.
It's long (read: epic), and it might just be the most visually impressive film to hit Chinese cinemas in years.
Wicked: For Good
December 24
No plans for Christmas Eve? Then how about a sparkly cinematic finale filled with witches, friendship, and Broadway magic?
Wicked: For Good, the second chapter of the two-part adaptation, hits Chinese theaters this festive season only in selected 'premium' cinemas.
Once again starring Emmy and Grammy winner Cynthia Erivo as Elphaba and pop icon Ariana Grande as Glinda, the sequel dives into the fallout of the first film—deeper emotional stakes, darker choices, and a more dramatic tone.
This isn't just a continuation—it's the true climax of a two-part epic, made to fully honor the beloved stage musical.
Fans will be thrilled to know that Wicked: For Good adds two brand-new songs written exclusively for the film by composer Stephen Schwartz, bringing fresh surprises even for those who know every lyric by heart.
The film also boasts bolder visuals and costume design—Elphaba's emerald robes and Glinda's glam have received a big-screen makeover worthy of Oz.
At its heart, the film asks: What does it take to choose friendship over power, and how do we rewrite a destiny we never asked for?
For those who love fantasy with emotional heft, Wicked is the magical ride to end the year on.
Thought We'd Missed Zootopia 2?
No chance! Read our preview of it in last month's roundup...
READ MORE: 6 International Movies Hitting Chinese Cinemas This November
Important Reminder
Non-English films will be screened in their original languages (some dubbed) with Chinese subtitles only—be sure to check the language version before booking your tickets.
Planning to catch a movie? Don't miss our tips on booking, payment, and more...
Ultimate Guide to Booking Cinema Tickets in China
[Cover image by That's]
No comments:
Post a Comment