China - culture
08/13/2026
09:45

BEIJING, AUGUST 13 /SRNA/ - The film "Welcome to Dragon Restaurant", although it has only recently begun its nationwide release in China, has already grossed more than 300 million yuan from preview screenings and advance ticket sales.
China Media Group reports that films continue to be extremely popular during this summer holiday, with total box-office revenue from summer releases approaching nine billion yuan so far.
The film "Welcome to Dragon Restaurant", which officially began its nationwide release on Tuesday, August 11, tells the story of a chef, Xu Fu, who travels to a foreign country to work in a Chinese restaurant and finds himself confronted with the hardships of war. The film portrays the choices and perseverance of ordinary people amid chaos.
The production moves beyond the traditional narrative framework, using food as a link to explore peace, humanity and the meaning of life for ordinary people.
Moviegoer Lin Qing said that the film portrays friendship, life, teenagers and children. "Whether it is our own lives or the lives of people in society, they are all very important to us," Lin said.
Moviegoer Sun Simin said that children growing up in China are very fortunate, as they are surrounded by their families from an early age through adulthood, while their environment is very safe.
"We have forgotten that there are many truly unfortunate children around the world who live in war conditions. Therefore, after watching this film, I feel that we should pay more attention to children in war-affected areas," Sun stressed.
"Welcome to Dragon Restaurant" was filmed using special IMAX technology. In addition to a large portion being filmed on location, the authentic depiction of Middle Eastern urban landscapes further contributes to the audience’s feeling of actually being there.
On the IMAX screen, key scenes in the film show up to 26 percent more content within the frame. The wide format captures both the grand scenes of war-torn streets and everyday life in kitchens filled with aromas and bustle. From smoke-shrouded battle scenes to the characters’ subtle emotional reactions, everything is presented in detail on the big screen.
As a film combining an anti-war theme with cuisine, the audience, while captivated by its depiction of Chinese food, also gains a deeper appreciation of the value of peace and how hard-won it is, as well as a greater appreciation of the beauty of life today.
Film industry experts say the movie does not stop at a superficial portrayal of the anti-war theme, but delves deeper into the situation of ordinary people living under wartime conditions and the trials of human nature, conveying a message of humanity through the simple belief of "eating well".
The entire cinematic experience is filled with laughter and tears, leaving audiences with a lasting reflection on love and peace. In today’s world, which continues to be marked by turmoil, fulfilling the most basic human needs - being fed, being in warm environment and surviving with dignity - represents the most fundamental aspiration.