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'Ne Zha 2' storms into global box office top 5, cementing it as a cultural phenomenon

  • 16.03.2025 00:00
  • china.org.cn
  • Keywords: Ne Zha 2, Maoyan

"Ne Zha 2" has become a global box office sensation, surpassing Disney's "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" to rank fifth worldwide. Its success highlights China's growing influence in animation and cinema, with record-breaking earnings and international acclaim.

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Estimated market influence

Ne Zha 2

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Analyst rating: N/A

The film 'Ne Zha 2' has achieved significant box office success globally, becoming a cultural phenomenon.

Maoyan

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Analyst rating: N/A

Maoyan provided data and analysis supporting the success of 'Ne Zha 2', contributing to its recognition as a global box office hit.

Context

Business Insights and Market Implications of 'Ne Zha 2'

Box Office Milestone

  • Global Earnings: Surpassed $2.09 billion (15.019 billion yuan) in 45 days, entering the global box office top 5.
  • Historic Achievement: Became the first non-Hollywood film to reach the billion-dollar club and the highest-grossing animated movie worldwide.

Domestic Market Performance

  • Revenue Breakdown: Over 98% of earnings came from the Chinese mainland.
  • Market Impact: Boosted creator confidence and highlighted China's market growth potential, reversing a 23% decline in 2024 box office revenue compared to 2023.

International Expansion

  • Global Rollout: Launched in Australia/New Zealand on February 13, expanded to North America, breaking the 20-year opening weekend record for Chinese-language films.
  • Asian and European Markets: Debut in Singapore (March 6), Philippines/Malaysia/Thailand (this week), with further Southeast Asian releases planned. Preview screenings in the UK/Ireland ahead of March 21 official release.

Technical Achievements

  • Visual Effects: Nearly 2,000 visual effects shots from 138 animation studios, showcasing China's growing creative industry strength.

Cultural and Emotional Impact

  • Themes: Addressed universal themes like prejudice and resilience, resonating deeply with audiences.
  • Inspiration: Viewers reported personal growth and motivation, particularly among students preparing for exams.

Industry Influence

  • Market Expansion: Attracted more viewers to theatrical releases, proving high-quality content can sustain a healthy market cycle.
  • Cultural Bridge: Positioned as a window into Chinese mythology and traditions, with potential for other Chinese stories to captivate global audiences.

Long-Term Effects

  • Industry Dynamism: Reflects the vibrancy of China's creative industries and the enduring appeal of its traditional culture.
  • Global Potential: Serves as a cultural bridge, offering insight into Chinese mythology and traditions, with long-term implications for international storytelling.