It’s no secret that expectations were high for the third installment of the “Iron Man” franchise, but ticket sales in China have far exceeded Marvel’s wildest hopes.

According to a report, “Iron Man 3” now holds the title of biggest opening day ever in China’s history thanks to $21.5 million in earnings.

Though it has yet to hit theaters in the U.S., "Iron Man 3" is already breaking records overseas. The movie's Italian debut this past weekend set a record as the most successful April opening ever in the country.

Though the nation's cinema sector may be shrinking, the superhero sequel pulled in a record $11.3 million.

With its big screen debut just over a week away, a new television spot for “Iron Man 3” was released on Monday (April 22).

The tale of Tony Stark aka Iron Man, stars Robert Downey, Jr., Gwyneth Paltrow, Rebecca Hall, and Guy Pearce.