Balihow – The animated film Ne Zha 2 has achieved phenomenal success since its release in China in late January 2025.
Reported by Kompas.com on Wednesday, March 19, 2025, Ne Zha 2 has grossed over $2.085 billion (USD) worldwide, securing its place as the fifth highest-grossing film of all time. But what is it that makes Ne Zha 2 so special and captivating for audiences globally?
Read also: Ne Zha 2 Becomes the 5th Highest-Grossing Film of All Time
The Heartwarming Friendship of Ne Zha and Ao Bing
Ne Zha 2 delves into the endearing friendship between Ne Zha (voiced by Lu Yanting), a demon born from the Spirit Pearl, and Ao Bing (Han Mo), a monster originating from the Spirit Pearl.
Despite possessing contrasting personalities and powers – Ao Bing is known for his calm demeanor, while Ne Zha is mischievous and impish – they forge a strong bond and support each other through thick and thin.
One fateful day, a catastrophic event strikes Chentang Pass, the home of Ne Zha and his parents. This disaster, orchestrated by the demon Shen Gongbao (Yang Wei), results in Ao Bing losing his physical form.
To restore Ao Bing’s body, a special elixir is required, found only within the Yuxu Palace. Acquiring this elixir is no easy feat.
Ne Zha and Ao Bing must unite, working together to pass a series of challenging tests and convince the Chen clan leader, Wuliang (Wang Deshun). Meanwhile, as Ne Zha and Ao Bing strive to overcome these trials, a calamitous event threatens Chentang Pass.
Ne Zha is faced with a difficult choice: help Ao Bing regain his body or seek vengeance for his parents.
Stunning Animation and a Gripping Storyline
Ne Zha 2 is the sequel to the highly acclaimed film Ne Zha (2019), which is still available on platforms like iQiyi. Yu Yang directs this thrilling continuation.
From start to finish, Kompas.com was mesmerized by the magnificent, fluid, and intricately detailed animation of Ne Zha 2. Notable scenes include the cascading waterfalls of Chentang Pass, the waves crashing against the ruins of Ao Guang’s palace (Li Nan and Yu Chen, the father of Ao Bing), the magma engulfing the residents of Chentang Pass, the clouds swirling around the cauldron, and the epic battles in the film’s climax.
The film employs a vibrant color palette, making it accessible even for first-time viewers. The colors red and fire are strongly associated with Ne Zha, while blue-white and ice are linked to Ao Bing.
While enjoying Ne Zha 2 does not require prior viewing of the first film, watching Ne Zha beforehand will undoubtedly enrich the experience and provide a deeper understanding of the characters.
The battle sequences in Ne Zha 2 are intense, with excellent pacing and a complementary musical score. Interspersed throughout these scenes are moments of levity, stemming from the characters’ antics, providing a welcome contrast.
However, Ne Zha 2 is more than just action-packed combat. The film also features dramatic scenes, such as Ne Zha’s farewell to his family, which are emotionally resonant. The plot points, including the twists and turns, feel carefully considered and contribute meaningfully to the narrative.
Despite being suitable for all ages, parents should be mindful of certain scenes in Ne Zha 2, such as those depicting combat with weaponry. Furthermore, the ending may feel somewhat anticlimactic, potentially setting the stage for a third film.
If viewing in a cinema, be sure to stay until after the credits roll. The post-credit scene is both humorous and provides an answer regarding the whereabouts of Shen Gongbao.
Ringkasan
Ne Zha 2, the sequel to the acclaimed 2019 animated film, has achieved significant box office success, grossing over $2.085 billion worldwide and becoming the fifth highest-grossing film of all time. The film explores the heartwarming friendship between Ne Zha and Ao Bing, who must unite to overcome challenges and save Chentang Pass. The storyline involves Ne Zha facing a difficult choice between helping Ao Bing regain his body and seeking vengeance for his parents.
The film is praised for its stunning animation, vibrant color palette, and gripping storyline, featuring intense battle sequences and emotionally resonant moments. While prior viewing of the first film, Ne Zha, is not required, it enhances the viewing experience. Although suitable for all ages, parents should be mindful of certain combat scenes, and viewers are encouraged to stay for a humorous post-credit scene that offers insight into Shen Gongbao’s whereabouts.