Chinese animated blockbuster Ne Zha 2 has made history by surpassing 10 billion yuan ($1.4 billion) in global box office earnings, making it the first Asian film to enter the all-time top 20 highest-grossing films. The film has outperformed Hollywood hits like Black Panther and The Super Mario Bros. Movie, marking a significant achievement for China’s animation industry. It has also become the first film in Chinese cinema history to attract over 200 million viewers, according to China’s ticketing platform Maoyan.
Following its domestic success, Ne Zha 2 has captivated international audiences, with wide releases in North America, Australia, and New Zealand. It has set records as the highest-grossing Chinese film in advanced screenings across these regions. With over 700 theaters in North America, it marks the largest opening for a Chinese film distributed by a Chinese studio in the region in two decades. Positive reviews from foreign audiences highlight its strong storytelling, spiritual depth, and cutting-edge animation quality.
The film’s success underscores the growing influence of China’s domestic film industry, which has been increasingly outpacing Hollywood in the Chinese market. With a renewed focus on homegrown storytelling, advanced special effects, and rich cultural narratives, Chinese filmmakers are demonstrating their ability to compete on a global scale. Many Hollywood producers have also taken note, expressing interest in collaborations with Chinese studios.
As Ne Zha 2 continues to dominate at the box office, it represents a milestone in China’s film industry, proving that animation rooted in traditional Chinese folklore can resonate with global audiences. The film’s triumph signals a shift in the entertainment landscape, where Chinese productions are no longer just competing with Hollywood but setting new benchmarks for cinematic success worldwide.
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