A war comedy drama set in the Middle East has dominated Chinese cinemas for the fourth consecutive weekend, pulling in RMB82.6 million between September 4 and 6. The film’s remarkable performance pushed its total earnings past the $305.6 million mark since opening nationwide on August 11.
Directed by Wen Muye, known for his work on Dying to Survive, the movie tells the story of a Chinese chef drowning in debt who operates a restaurant in the Middle East. When regional conflict erupts, he and his floor manager turn their elishment into a sanctuary for displaced civilians and orphaned children. It’s a premise that clearly resonates with aunces.
The cast features Shen Teng in the lead role, supported by Jiang Qiming, Aarif Rahman, and Omar Sherif. Wen Muye co-wrote the screenplay with Lang Qunli and Wei Zhong, crafting what has become one of the year’s biggest theatrical successes in the region.
How long can this momentum continue? With strong word of mouth and consistent weekend numbers, the film shows no signs of slowing down just yet. Production company Dirty Monkeys has struck gold with this unlikely combination of war drama and comedy.
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