The First Slam Dunk Anime Film: Earns US$13.8M on Opening Day in China

The First Slam Dunk Anime Film Earns US$13.8 Million on Opening Day in China

Source: Twitter/@tjoy_umeda
By Saheel Khirodkar | Apr 21, 2023 | 2 Min Read follow icon Follow Us

Slam Dunk anime fans have reason to celebrate as the franchise’s latest anime film, The First Slam Dunk, has earned US$13.8 million on its opening day in China. The film, directed by Takehiko Inoue, is based on the popular basketball manga and anime series, and has been receiving rave reviews since its release.

Impressive Opening Day Sales

The First Slam Dunk’s opening day earnings in China amounted to US$13.8 million, according to entertainment news website Variety. This follows 14,000 preview screenings held the day before, which raked in US$3.16 million. The film’s success is not limited to China, as it has also done well in South Korea, where it is currently the second highest-earning film this year, with earnings of US$35,499,346 since its release on January 4.

Record-Breaking Success in Japan

The First Slam Dunk anime film opened in Japan on December 3, 2022, and immediately made a record-breaking impact. The film debuted at #1 on the charts, selling 847,000 tickets and earning 1,295,808,780 yen (about US$9.50 million) over its opening weekend. It currently ranks as the 24th highest-earning film of all time in Japan. Additionally, the film won the Animation of the Year award at the 46th annual Japan Academy Film Prizes.

All-Star Team Behind the Scenes

The First Slam Dunk’s success is not only due to its popularity but also its quality. Takehiko Inoue personally directed the film at Toei Animation and wrote the script, while Yasuyuki Ebara (Kabaneri of the Iron Fortress) served as character designer and animation director. The technical directors were Katsuhiko Kitada (Attack on Titan episodes, Major: Yūjō no Winning Shot), Naoki Miyahara (Digimon Adventure, Popin Q), Toshio Ōhashi (LayereD Stories 0), and Yū Kamatani (Looking for Magical DoReMi, Precure Super Stars!).

Read More: Mercenary Enrollment Chapter 133: Release Date, Spoilers & More

CG direction was handled by Daiki Nakazawa, and Yūta Ogura produced the CG. Kazuo Ogura directed the art, and Yota Tsuruoka was in charge of the sound, with Koji Kasamatsu as his assistant.

Awards and Recognition

Toshiyuki Matsui, the film’s producer, was awarded this year’s general award for Eiga Engeki Bunka Kyōkai’s (Film Theater Culture Association) 42nd annual Fujimoto Awards. This award is given to individuals who have made significant contributions to the film industry.

Final Thoughts

The First Slam Dunk anime film’s incredible success in Japan, China, and South Korea is a testament to its engaging story and high-quality animation. Fans of the manga and anime series have eagerly anticipated the film’s release, and its performance at the box office has not disappointed. Congratulations to the talented team behind this exceptional film.

Get the latest from Sportslumo.com by following us on InstagramTwitter, and YouTube