This week, several highly anticipated films are hitting theaters across the US, including the Oscar-shortlisted Cannes and TIFF premiering feature “Universal Language” by Canadian filmmaker Matthew Rankin, Chinese animated juggernaut “Ne Zha 2”, and Oscar Nominated Shorts.
“Universal Language,” which received widespread critical acclaim with a 97% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, tells the story of multiple characters navigating a mysterious inter-zone between Tehran and Winnipeg. The film’s unique blend of cultures has resonated with audiences, with Rankin attributing its success to its cathartic portrayal of gentleness existing in a world marked by rigidity and contempt.
Meanwhile, “Ne Zha 2” is breaking box office records in China, becoming the country’s highest-grossing film of all time and pushing $1.4 billion at the domestic box office. The film, based on classic Chinese myth and novel Investiture of the Gods, follows a young deity as he defends his home from supernatural forces.
Oscar Nominated Shorts is also back for its 20th season, offering three film blocks of nominated Best Live Action, Best Animated, and Best Documentary shorts. This year’s lineup includes notable nominees such as “Beautiful Men,” “Wander to Wonder,” and “Yuck!””.
As the Academy Awards approach, it seems that several Oscar contenders are using the theatrical window to their advantage, with many expanding to top 30 markets and nationwide releases in the coming weeks. With the ceremony just a few weeks away, film distributors are optimistic about the ongoing theatrical recovery.
Source: https://deadline.com/2025/02/indie-films-opening-ne-zha-2-universal-language-oscar-nominated-shorts-1236289800