Chinese animated film ‘Niu Lai’ becomes surprise hit despite online backlash

Beijing: A Chinese animated film is turning online ridicule into ticket sales. Niu Lai, or The Cow Is Coming, released in China on August 5, was quickly labeled the “worst movie of 2026” on social media. Despite the criticism, the film is slowly becoming a box-office sensation.

As per Maoyan, the Chinese ticketing platform, the film has collected more than Rs 20 crore so far.The story follows a newborn calf who has always lived under the shelter of his mother and herd. His world changes when he follows a skylark and slips into a long dream sequence that forces him to confront life and death.

The contrast between viral mockery and steady box-office growth has made Niu Lai one of the most talked-about releases of the year in China.