(CNN) -- A locally-produced slapstick comedy was the runaway box office hit last year in China, but international films swept the top 10 highest-grossing films in the country. Industry insiders say international influence is only set to grow, as Chinese censors loosen restrictions on foreign films and more fans make a habit of seeking out the latest blockbusters. Last year, the country's box office receipts increased 30% to over RMB 17 billion ($2.7 billion), making China the world's second-largest box office On the fifth episode of CNN's monthly show "On China," host Kristie Lu Stout traveled to Hengdian World Studios to discover what strikes a chord with Chinese viewers. There, she asked Dan Mintz, CEO of DMG Entertainment Group, and acclaimed film directors Jin Yimeng (Eva) and Lu Chuan what Chinese filmgoers want to see.
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International films swept top 10 highest-grossing films in China in 2012
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Chinese moviegoers often seek escapism in comedic fare
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Growing predilection for youth to visit cinema every week is key driver of ticket sales
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Film censorship restrictions in China slowly easing; international collaboration increasing
Chinese moviegoers seek escapism, according to @placeholder, China's first female director to exceed RMB 100 million ($16 million) at the box office.