Zhang Ziyi’s 'She’s Got No Name' Dominates China Box Office Opening

Zhang Ziyi’s highly anticipated return to the big screen with the period drama "She’s Got No Name" has achieved significant success, debuting at the top of the China box office during the weekend of June 20-22, 2025. The film, directed by the acclaimed Peter Chan Ho-sun, opened with a remarkable RMB 173.8 million (approximately $24.1 million), according to data released by Artisan Gateway on June 23, 2025.

The narrative of "She’s Got No Name" centers around the infamous unsolved murder case of Zhan-Zhou, portrayed by Zhang Ziyi, who is accused of dismembering her husband during the Japanese occupation of Shanghai in the 1940s. This gripping tale navigates through significant historical events, including the rise of the Kuomintang Nationalist government and the establishment of the People’s Republic of China, concluding in 1993, despite the accused living until 2006. The film's release was strategically timed, as it opened the Shanghai International Film Festival before its nationwide rollout, which has contributed to its strong box office performance.

Industry analysts note that this debut marks one of the most successful openings for a local film this summer. "The film’s success is indicative of the growing appetite for domestic narratives that intertwine personal and national histories," stated Dr. Lian Chen, a film studies professor at Beijing Film Academy, highlighting how the film resonates with contemporary audiences.

IMAX screenings contributed to the film's earnings, accounting for approximately $2.6 million from 690 screens, indicating a preference for immersive viewing experiences among Chinese audiences. "The IMAX format enhances the storytelling, allowing viewers to engage more deeply with the historical context and emotional stakes," commented Mr. Wei Zhang, an executive at IMAX China.

Despite the success of "She’s Got No Name," other films have also performed well. Universal’s animated feature "How to Train Your Dragon" secured the second position at the box office with $7.4 million, bringing its cumulative total to $23.1 million since its release on June 13, 2025. Paramount's action sequel, "Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning," followed in third place with $2.5 million, totaling $60.6 million over four weeks.

Overall, the weekend box office revenue reached $43.3 million, contributing to a year-to-date total of $3.975 billion for China, which is tracking 24.2% ahead of 2024. This growth indicates a robust recovery for the Chinese film industry post-pandemic, with expectations for continued success as local productions gain momentum.

As the film industry evolves, Zhang Ziyi's work in "She’s Got No Name" serves as a testament to the potential of Chinese cinema to captivate both domestic and international audiences. The film’s blend of historical drama and personal storytelling is likely to influence future cinematic projects, as filmmakers seek to explore complex narratives that reflect both individual and national identities.