China's animated box office titan Ne Zha 2 has become a cultural juggernaut, dominating screens worldwide ahead of its official international rollout. With $1.152 billion in global earnings by February 10, 2025, the film's fusion of cutting-edge animation and Chinese mythological storytelling is resonating far beyond its domestic market.
North American screenings saw unprecedented demand: presale tickets sold out weeks in advance, while theaters in Australia, New Zealand, and Pacific Islands reported 90% occupancy rates during early showings. The film's February 14 North American premiere will be followed by staggered releases across Asia, Africa, and the Middle East throughout late February.
Industry analysts highlight the film's appeal to global Chinese communities as key to its success. Streaming platforms report surging searches for the original Ne Zha lore, suggesting the sequel is driving broader interest in Chinese cultural narratives. With screenings now confirmed in 48 countries and regions, the film is positioned as a new benchmark for cross-cultural entertainment.
Reference(s):
'Ne Zha 2:' A global cultural phenomenon with sold-out screenings
cgtn.com
