Chinese animated film “Ne Zha 2,” which tells a story loosely based on Chinese mythology and folklore, has become the highest-grossing movie ever in China with over $1 billion in ticket sales. The film’s success is another sign that Chinese audiences are choosing domestic movies over Hollywood blockbusters.
The movie follows the reincarnation of a demon named Nezha as he fights back against his fate and saves his village. Its sequel revisits this theme, with Nezha challenging the political order and authority governing gods and demons.
According to independent film critic Raymond Zhou, “Ne Zha 2” targets all demographics and has successfully won over younger audiences. The film’s success is attributed to its spin on classic tales and characters, resonating with Chinese culture and folklore.
China’s state media and Communist Party officials have celebrated the movie’s success, portraying it as a recognition of China’s cultural influence. This marks a shift from previous top-grossing films that tapped into nationalistic fervor, such as “The Battle at Lake Changjin” and “Wolf Warrior 2.”
However, not all Chinese films are experiencing success. Box office sales fell 23 percent last year, according to the China Film Administration. The industry has gotten a boost from government incentives, including discounts and subsidies for movie tickets.
As the world’s second-largest movie market, China was once a dependable source of ticket sales for Hollywood blockbusters. However, this is no longer the case, with Chinese audiences now choosing domestic movies like “Ne Zha 2.”
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/02/10/business/china-box-office-ne-zha-2.html