Ultimate Guide to Find English Movies and Book Cinema Tickets in China

So, you’re in China and eager to catch a movie? Whether you’re traveling for business, pleasure, or just passing through, booking cinema tickets in China is a straightforward process, but knowing whether the movie will be in English can be a little trickier. Fear not, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about booking cinema tickets in China, including how to find out if the movie will be in English.

Booking Cinema Tickets in China: The Easy Way

Gone are the days of long queues and ticket counters at the cinema. Today, you can book your movie tickets directly from your phone, making the process both fast and convenient.

Two popular options for booking cinema tickets in China are Taobao Film (淘票票) and Maoyan (猫眼). These mini-programs are available on WeChat and Alipay, and both platforms allow for in-app language translation. This means that even if you’re not fluent in Mandarin, you can easily navigate the apps in English and book your tickets hassle-free.

How to Use Taobao Film and Maoyan to Book Your Tickets

Taobao Film (淘票票)

Open Alipay and search for the Taobao Film mini-program (or scan the QR code below).
Browse the list of available movies, showtimes, and cinemas near you.
Once you’ve found the perfect show, select your seats and proceed to checkout.
You can also find reviews, ratings, and movie trailers within the app to help you make your decision.

Taobao Film QR Code (scan to book):

Maoyan (猫眼)

Open WeChat and search for the Maoyan mini-program (or scan the QR code below).
Explore showtimes, cinema locations, and movie details, including any available promotions.
After selecting a movie and showtime, pick your seats and complete the booking.
Maoyan also provides trailers, show reviews, and more to enhance your cinema experience.

Maoyan QR Code (scan to book):

If you’re not into tech or prefer the traditional route, you can always head to your nearest cinema and purchase tickets at the box office. Many cinemas also feature self-service kiosks where you can quickly grab your ticket. If you’re unsure about the process, the staff at the cinema is always happy to help!

How to Tell if a Movie is in English in China

Now, let’s tackle the big question: Will the movie be in English or Mandarin?

Here’s what you need to look for:

Most cinemas in China clearly indicate the language of the movie on their app or website. On platforms like Maoyan and Taobao Film, check for these terms:

原版 (Yuán bǎn) = Original version
英语 (Yīng yǔ) = in English language

If you see these terms listed alongside the movie, it’s a good sign that the film will be in its original English version.

What to Expect in Terms of Subtitles

While international movies are generally shown in their original language, most will have Chinese subtitles. This means you’ll get to enjoy the movie in English, but you’ll need to read Chinese subtitles throughout. For example, popular movies like Minions and Paddington are typically shown in English with Chinese subtitles.

However, for big Chinese blockbusters like Ne Zha 2, you can expect a fully Mandarin experience—no subtitles, just all the action in the local language.

Tips for Enjoying Your Movie Experience in China

Practice your Mandarin: If you’re planning to watch a Chinese movie or a movie with Chinese subtitles, it can be a great opportunity to practice your Mandarin skills. Don’t worry if you’re not fluent—just enjoy the spectacle!
Ask the staff: If you’re unsure about a movie’s language or need more information, the cinema staff is usually happy to help. They can clarify the movie’s language, whether it’s dubbed or in the original version.
Be mindful of local customs: If you’re not used to Chinese movie theaters, note that some venues may have certain customs, like louder audience reactions or different snack options.

Conclusion: Booking Movie Tickets in China Made Easy

Booking cinema tickets in China is now simpler than ever. With Taobao Film and Maoyan apps, you can easily book your tickets from your phone, check showtimes, and even find out if the movie will be in English. So next time you’re in China and want to catch a movie, follow these tips, sit back, and enjoy the show!

And of course, don’t forget the popcorn!