The animated film Ne Zha 2 was released during this year’s Chinese New Year and has quickly made history by becoming China’s highest-grossing film ever.
It achieved a significant milestone by surpassing 12.05 billion yuan ($1.66 billion) at the global box office, placing it among the top 10 films worldwide. Currently showing in mainland China and Hong Kong, Malaysia and Singapore, and in a big part of the western world as well. This achievement not only highlights the rapid development of China’s domestic animation industry, but also demonstrates the enduring appeal of Ne Zha. The movie can be seen in Dutch cinemas starting 27 March 2025.
Who is Ne Zha
For many Dutch audiences, Ne Zha remains an unfamiliar figure. Ne Zha is a legendary figure in Chinese mythology, often depicted as a rebellious child deity with immense power. The story of Ne Zha dates back to the Ming Dynasty novel Investiture of the Gods (Fengshen Yanyi). In this mythological narrative, Ne Zha is the third son of Li Jing (Pagoda-Bearing Heavenly King), the garrison commander of Chentang Pass. His mother, Lady Yin, carried him for three years and six months before giving birth.
The legend of the Dragon King
Among all the legends of Ne Zha, his confrontation with the Third Prince of the East Sea Dragon King is the most famous. One day, while playing near the sea, Ne Zha stirred the waters with his red silk (Hun Tian Ling), unknowingly disrupting the Dragon King’s domain and injuring his son, prince Ao Bing. Ao Bing was furious and confronted Ne Zha, but Ne Zha refused to back down. A fierce battle broke out, and Ne Zha ultimately killed Ao Bing using his powerful weapon, the Universe Ring (Qian Kun Quan). Devastated by his son’s death, the Dragon King sought revenge and appealed to the Jade Emperor for justice. Under pressure from the heavens and fearing retaliation against his family and people, Ne Zha chose to sacrifice himself by cutting off his flesh and returning his bones to his parents as an act of penance. However, with the help of his master, Taiyi Zhenren, Ne Zha was later reborn with a body made of lotus roots. Stronger than before, he returned to continue his heroic battles against evil forces.
Journey to the West
In traditional tales, Ne Zha is known for his defiance against fate and authority, as well as his fierce loyalty to family and friends. His figure also appears in another Ming Dynasty classic, Journey to the West, where he serves as an important heavenly general, frequently assisting Sun Wukong and his companions in subduing demons, becoming a crucial ally to the pilgrimage team.
Ne Zha, the movie
Ne Zha’s story is one of transformation; from a mischievous, misunderstood boy to a heroic figure who challenges the heavens to rewrite his destiny. This mythological foundation provides a rich backdrop for the film’s narrative, blending ancient lore with contemporary themes. The first film in the series Ne Zha, released in 2019, laid the groundwork for an even more ambitious continuation. Offering a modern interpretation of the traditional story, it portrays Ne Zha as a rebellious boy grappling with both external challenges and internal struggles, which resonated widely with audiences.
Ne Zha 2
In Ne Zha 2, Ne Zha is recognized as a hero, facing even greater challenges. As new dark forces emerge, Ne Zha must confront powerful enemies and protect those he loves, while continuing his journey of self-discovery. Through exquisite animation and gripping narrative adaptation, combined with contemporary social issues, Ne Zha 2 delves into universal themes such as destiny, family bonds, personal growth, redemption, and reflection on hegemony. Ne Zha grapples with his fate, questioning his ability to change his path, while his evolving relationship with his parents highlights the importance of family support. As he matures, the film also touches on his quest for redemption and his challenge against both physical adversaries and the power structures that define his world.
Success factors
This film’s success is not only due to its compelling story adaptation but also the cutting-edge animation technology that brings the narrative to life, immersing audiences in a visually stunning experience. Furthermore, it allows audiences of all ages to engage with the classic myth in a way that sparks diverse interpretations and deeper understanding, offering fresh perspectives on this legendary character. It proves that the perfect combination of traditional culture and modern technology can create powerful appeal, while also showcasing the rise of China’s film industry on the global stage. With the growing popularity of Ne Zha 2, this ancient mythological story will continue to inspire new generations of audiences and spread the unique charm of Chinese culture worldwide.
