CBN Special丨“Ne Zha 2” makes “hiss-tory” in Year of the Snake， redefining Chinese animation

摘要：Directed by Yang Yu, widely known as Jiaozi, the film features Ne Zha, a popular young hero in Chinese legends and literature suc

Directed by Yang Yu, widely known as Jiaozi, the film features Ne Zha, a popular young hero in Chinese legends and literature such as the literary classic “Journey to the West.”

Born with unique powers, Ne Zha finds himself as an outcast who is feared and even hated. Destined by prophecy to bring destruction to the world, the boy must choose between good and evil.

The success of “Ne Zha 2” goes beyond just its box office numbers - it has sparked widespread emotional connections with viewers. The movie's portrayal of complex relationships, especially familial bonds and friendships, resonates with audiences, particularly during the Spring Festival, a time when family reunion is a central theme.

For many, the film's themes of self-identity, overcoming obstacles, and finding one's purpose mirrored the personal challenges they face in their own lives.

For example, the character of Shen Gongbao, the movie's antagonist, also contributed significantly to the film's emotional impact. Many viewers expressed their emotional reactions on social media, with Shen becoming a trending topic on Sina Weibo.

In addition to the compelling narrative, the film also delivers a powerful visual experience.

Film industry experts praised the seamless integration of traditional Eastern aesthetics with “hardcore” animation techniques in the movie, which the producers of the sequel are touting the film as a "dimensional upgrade" from its predecessor.

From Ne Zha diving into the sea to parting the waters in a dazzling display of power, the film raises the stakes in both scale and ambition, particularly in its complex water animations.

Redefing Chinese animation

Chen Changjiang, executive producer of “Ne Zha 2,” emphasized the importance of telling culturally rich Chinese stories requires the expertise of local teams.

As China's computer-generated imaging industry rapidly advances, homegrown teams are at the forefront, blending cutting-edge technology with deep cultural knowledge to bring iconic stories to life for both domestic and global audiences.

When speaking of its stunning visuals and universal storytelling, Chen said the team was not touching the ceiling of Chinese animation. It was touching the ceiling of film production’s visual effects technology.

The making of “Ne Zha 2” is constantly pushing the boundaries of visual effects, not treating it as an animation, but as a movie, she added.

The secret to the film’s success can be summed up in two sentences from its director. One is, "We're living in a great era that gives us the chance to do what we love." The other is, "Treat every project like it's your last, and leave no room for regrets."

With a team of over 4,000 people, 1,900 special effects shots, and three years spent perfecting just one scene, “Ne Zha 2” is a labor of love. It shows how China's animation industry has come a long way, from catching up in technology to building a thriving ecosystem.

"Chinese IPs" are quietly changing the game in global animation, bringing fresh Eastern aesthetics and cultural depth. What audiences around the world see is Chinese filmmakers telling Chinese stories with Chinese aesthetics and values.