The Meteoric Rise of “Ne Zha 2”: Transforming Chinese Cinema and Box Office Success

“Ne Zha 2,” an animated film directed by Yang Yu, has become the highest-grossing animated film globally, earning 14.7 billion yuan at the box office. It represents a notable shift in Chinese cinema from patriotic epics to themes of individual empowerment, resonating deeply with audiences amid current societal challenges. The film’s release timing and promotional efforts further contributed to its success, marking it as a significant cultural event in China.

In recent years, the Chinese box office has witnessed a remarkable transformation. Whereas the previous box office champions were a valiant army commander and a self-discovering female boxer, the animated film “Ne Zha 2” has captivated audiences and shattered international box office records in 2025. Written and directed by Yang Yu, the film delves into Chinese mythology, narrating the journey of Ne Zha, a demon child raised by humans who seeks a mythical elixir to save his friend, the dragon prince Ao Bing, from his misfortunes.

The film has been immensely successful, grossing an astonishing 14.7 billion yuan (£1.6 billion) since its release during the lunar new year holiday, establishing it as the highest-grossing animated feature globally, exceeding Pixar’s “Inside Out 2.” “Ne Zha 2” signifies a departure from the patriotic narratives that have recently dominated Chinese cinema, surpassing films like “The Battle at Lake Changjin” and “Wolf Warrior 2.”

Film critic Yu Yaqin notes that while patriotic themes persist in Chinese cinema, “Ne Zha 2” resonates with viewers due to its depiction of challenging injustices and powerful authorities during a time of heightened social dissatisfaction. The character Ne Zha, declaring, “My fate is controlled by myself, not by God,” aligns with the sentiments of individuals navigating personal struggles amid unfavorable societal conditions.

Moreover, the film’s release during the lunar new year attracted substantial family attendance. Initial word-of-mouth success was swiftly aided by promotions from local businesses and authorities, ultimately crafting what netizens termed as China’s “guoyun” or national destiny. Afra Wang emphasized that in the aftermath of the pandemic, many Chinese citizens seek reassurance rooted in familiar cultural narratives, with “national destiny” offering an inspiring framework.

The unprecedented success of “Ne Zha 2” has prompted various commercial ventures to engage in promotions, including companies purchasing tickets for employees and local businesses devising themed offerings, such as cocktails named after the film. Yu notes that cities often try to associate themselves with successful cultural phenomena to enhance their local narratives.

Despite its triumph in China, the film’s performance in global markets remains uncertain. Its reliance on Chinese mythology and connections to the previous “Ne Zha” film may limit its reception abroad. The potential for success may exist in Taiwan, with its shared cultural history, although strict limits on Chinese film releases pose a significant barrier. “Ne Zha 2” is slated for a UK release on March 21, but many in China believe the film exemplifies their narrative of emerging greatness without dependence on Western validation.

In conclusion, “Ne Zha 2” has redefined the trajectory of the Chinese box office, illustrating the power of culturally resonant storytelling that transcends traditional patriotic themes. The film’s unprecedented success reveals a collective desire for narratives that reflect personal struggle and empowerment, particularly during challenging times. It highlights an evolving cinema landscape, where audiences are increasingly drawn to stories of individual agency and resilience.

Original Source: www.theguardian.com