Animated Film ‘Ne Zha 2’ Shatters Box Office Records in China and Beyond
“Ne Zha 2” has become the highest-grossing film in Chinese cinema history, achieving 14.7 billion yuan at the box office. The film features a demon child on a quest influenced by Chinese mythology and stands in contrast to previous patriotic films. Its themes resonate with current societal challenges in China, reflecting both personal empowerment and national pride. The film’s international success remains uncertain, particularly in markets limited in Chinese film distribution.
In recent years, Chinese cinema has transformed, with different genres rising to prominence at the box office. The standout film of 2025 is the animated feature “Ne Zha 2,” authored by Yang Yu. This film tells the story of Ne Zha, a demon child raised by humans, as he embarks on a quest to secure an elixir for his friend, the dragon prince Ao Bing, whose body suffers from a lightning strike. The movie combines breathtaking graphics and symbolism, captivating millions of viewers.
Since its release during the lunar new year holiday, “Ne Zha 2” has garnered unprecedented success, amassing 14.7 billion yuan (£1.6 billion), establishing itself as the highest-grossing film in Chinese cinema history. Furthermore, it has become the global leader in animated filmmaking, overtaking Pixar’s “Inside Out 2.” This shift reflects a departure from the patriotic themes prevalent in Chinese cinema, exemplified by films like “The Battle at Lake Changjin” and “Wolf Warrior 2.”
Film critic Yu Yaqin observed that while “Ne Zha 2” still resonates with patriotic sentiments, it also taps into broader themes of self-determination and social justice. With rising dissatisfaction in society and high unemployment among youth, audiences connect with Ne Zha’s declaration: “My fate is controlled by myself, not by God.” This may resonate deeply with citizens experiencing struggles amid a challenging economy.
Moreover, the film has seen a wave of promotional support from local businesses and government entities during the lunar new year, vastly contributing to its box office success. The cultural narrative surrounding “guoyun,” or national destiny, offers many ordinary Chinese a narrative to find reassurance and context for their current challenges. Retailers and businesses capitalized on this momentum, with promotions and themed products linked to the film.
While “Ne Zha 2” has achieved remarkable success domestically, its international reception remains uncertain due to its reliance on Chinese cultural references and familiarity with the original “Ne Zha” film from 2019. Potential success is anticipated in Taiwan, but limitations on Chinese film releases may impede this. Although it is set to premiere in the UK on 21 March, the Chinese audience feels that their cinematic achievement serves as a testament to China’s emerging national destiny.
“Ne Zha 2” has emerged as a landmark film in Chinese cinema, overshadowing previous box office leaders with its compelling blend of cultural resonance and stunning visuals. It reflects a shift away from overtly patriotic narratives, tapping into themes of self-empowerment amidst societal challenges. This film not only highlights China’s cultural storytelling but also positions the nation’s cinema on the global stage, raising important questions about its future reception abroad.
Original Source: www.theguardian.com
