In an unprecedented achievement, the sequel to the beloved Chinese animated comedy Ne Zha has captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. Released on January 29th in China, this film has amassed an impressive $1.37 billion at the global box office, significantly surpassing its modest budget of $80 million. Not only is it the highest-grossing film of 2025 and the most successful non-English language film, but it also ranks as the third-highest-grossing animated film of all time. The original film, which debuted in 2019, had already set a high bar with its earnings of $747 million. This sequel continues the captivating story of Ne Zha, exploring new challenges and adventures.

A Journey Beyond Expectations: The Success Story of Ne Zha 2

In the enchanting world of animation, few films have managed to captivate audiences like Ne Zha 2. Following directly from the events of the first film, where Ne Zha and Ao Bing sacrifice themselves using the energy of the Chaos Pearl, their souls persist while their physical bodies are destroyed. Now, Taiyi Zhenren attempts an ambitious feat by using the seven-colored lotus to reconstruct their physical forms, facing numerous obstacles along the way. Directed by Jiaozi, also known as Yang Yu, the film boasts a stellar voice cast, including Joseph as Ne Zha, Mo Han as Ao Bing, Hao Chen as Li Jing, and others who bring these characters to life with emotion and depth.

The overwhelming success of Ne Zha 2 is evident in its 99% Fresh audience score on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting the profound impact it has had on viewers. As the film continues to screen in theaters, it solidifies its place not just as an entertainment milestone but as a cultural phenomenon that bridges East and West.

From a journalistic perspective, the triumph of Ne Zha 2 underscores the growing influence of Chinese animation on the global stage. It demonstrates that compelling storytelling and innovative animation can transcend language barriers and appeal to diverse audiences. For movie enthusiasts, this film serves as a reminder that the magic of cinema lies in its ability to transport us to extraordinary worlds, fostering connections and sparking imagination across borders.