Animated film “Ne Zha 2” has set a new record in China’s box office history, grossing 5.78 billion yuan ($796 million) by February 6, making it the highest-grossing film of all time in the country.
The Chinese Embassy in the Philippines celebrated the milestone, announcing that the remarkable achievement was reached in just eight days and five hours.
The film’s rapid success is fueled by a mix of cutting-edge animation, gripping storytelling, and timely release. With over 1,900 special-effects shots, the movie provides a truly spectacular visual experience, appealing to audiences of all ages.
Directed by Yang Yu (also known as Jiaozi), “Ne Zha 2” continues the saga of the rebellious god-child Ne Zha, who battles sea monsters to protect his world—an empowering narrative that resonates with younger viewers exploring self-identity.
Released during China’s Spring Festival, traditionally one of the most lucrative movie seasons, the timing maximized the film’s box office potential. During the 2025 Lunar New Year festivities, the box office saw a staggering 12 billion yuan in revenue, with ‘Ne Zha 2’ accounting for over half of that total.
The animated sequel to the 2019 hit “Ne Zha” builds on the mythological figure’s legacy from the Ming dynasty novel “Investiture of the Gods”.
“Ne Zha’s image, rooted in Chinese culture, has been rejuvenated with modern technology, highlighting a confidence born from the nation’s inner strength and the unique charm of Chinese culture in inheritance and innovation,” the embassy noted.
“Ne Zha 2” will soon be released in several international markets. It will hit theaters in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and Papua New Guinea on February 13, with debuts in the U.S. and Canada on Valentine’s Day.
Additional releases are slated for Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and more. As for the Philippines, the release date has yet to be officially announced.