The Characteristics, Challenges, and Strategic Development of China IP Animated Films (2014–2024)

This study reviews all animated films released in Mainland China from 2014 to 2024, utilizing data from the Maoyan Professional Version app to analyze China IP animated films market characteristics, challenges, and development strategies, aiming to provide valuable insights for the growth of China animation industry. The research finds that domestic animated films often adapt IPs based on mythological stories, IP series animations demonstrate strong commercial performance and the holiday release effect is strong, and so on. However, from 2014 to 2024, the number of imported films surpassing 100 million yuan at the box office consistently exceeds that of domestic films, the domestic animation market heavily relies on a few high-quality core films and the industrial foundation of domestic animated films is not yet fully solidified. Therefor, this paper employs a SWOT analysis model to systematically outline the strengths and weaknesses of China IP animated films. Finally, based on the PEST analysis framework, the study proposes strategies to promote the development of China's animation industry, including building a more balanced market structure, enhancing the stability of domestic animation box office revenues, and strengthening international competitiveness through technological innovation and cultural exchange.