‘Ne Zha 2’ : Tell Chinese Story Resonating with the World | Insights

Chongqing - As of February 17, China's box-office sensation, Ne Zha 2, had surpassed the key 11.9 billion yuan ($1.64 billion) mark in ticket receipts, including presales and overseas revenue. This milestone has injected much-needed energy into the domestic cinema industry.

"For a domestic animated film, this is truly remarkable," said Wu Kejia, a director known for her 2021 short film Salvation and the 2022 Singaporean film Seven Days, in an interview with iChongqing. She shared her thoughts on the film's cultural significance and its broader implications for the industry.

The success of Ne Zha 2 comes at a critical time for the Chinese film industry. According to data released by the China Film Administration on January 1, the total box office revenue for Chinese films in 2024 reached 42.5 billion yuan, a 22.7% decline from 2023's 54.9 billion yuan. Against this backdrop, Ne Zha 2's record-breaking performance has reignited hope for the industry.

Wu said, "Last year's domestic box office was underwhelming, with audiences seemingly reluctant to visit theaters. The rise of short dramas and videos even led to claims that 'cinema is dead,' and many theaters anticipated challenges in 2025. But Ne Zha 2 has reignited hope: audiences haven't abandoned cinema; they are still willing to pay for quality productions." 

"I think the film is of exceptionally high quality, with a tight narrative, genuine emotions, and stunning visuals. I would recommend it to friends because I really enjoyed it," she said.

"The thrilling battle scenes and emotionally charged conflicts keep the audience on the edge of their seats while deeply moved by the characters' growth and struggles," she said. The main characters, she added, are well-developed, each with distinct traits that leave a lasting impression.

To avoid spoilers, Wu focused on the supporting characters that stood out to her. "Aside from the two protagonists, Taiyi Zhenren and Shen Gongbao are particularly memorable. Taiyi Zhenren's Sichuan accent is a delightful addition—he's the comedic heart of the film, responsible for 70% of my laughter. Shen Gongbao isn't a traditional villain; he's ambitious and disciplined but held back by his background. Though seemingly cold, he harbors warmth and kindness, making rational decisions even in moments of anger. These traits allow the audience to deeply empathize, as if seeing their own struggles and awakenings in real life."

The film's visual storytelling also significantly affects its global appeal. With stunning animation and innovative design, Ne Zha 2 showcases the pinnacle of Chinese animation. Wu praised the film's ability to balance modern aesthetics with traditional elements, creating a visually captivating experience that appeals to both domestic and international audiences.

While Ne Zha 2 has achieved remarkable success in China, its journey in international markets is just beginning.

Ne Zha 2 premiered on February 13 in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and Papua New Guinea, followed by a Valentine's Day release in the United States and Canada on February 14. The film is also set to hit screens in Singapore, Malaysia, Egypt, South Africa, Pakistan, Japan, and South Korea, marking a significant step in its global expansion.

"The film's impressive box office performance has already piqued the curiosity of many international viewers," Wu said. Although the film hasn't been released in Singapore yet, Wu shared that several of her Singaporean friends, who are not of Chinese descent, asked her about it after seeing the box office reports online.

Wu is optimistic about Ne Zha 2's box office performance in Singapore. However, she acknowledged the challenges of introducing Chinese film in overseas markets, such as cultural acceptance and marketing, as well as how to engage non-Chinese-speaking audiences and encourage them to embrace a story deeply rooted in Chinese mythology. This challenge isn't unique to Ne Zha 2—it's a hurdle faced by all Chinese cultural IPs, such as Creation of the Gods and Journey to the West, as they venture into global markets. 

"Effective international promotion is key. It's essential to avoid framing the film as purely "Chinese mythology," which might create a sense of distance for global viewers," Wu said. 

"At its core, Ne Zha 2 is a story about growth, breaking prejudices, and identity—themes that resonate with audiences worldwide, " Wu said.

"When viewers connect with the story and characters, some will naturally develop an interest in Chinese mythology and explore it further. Even those who don't actively seek to learn more will subconsciously retain an impression, making it easier for them to understand and appreciate Chinese mythological culture in the future," Wu explained.

For Wu, Ne Zha 2 is more than just a box office success—it's a source of inspiration for filmmakers like herself. "It shows us that it's possible to tell a Chinese story that resonates with the world," she said. 

Wu's next project, a China-Singapore co-production, aims to showcase the unique culture of Chongqing while highlighting the spirit of contemporary Chinese youth. "We hope to contribute to the global reach of Chinese culture," she added.