Chengdu Crowds Flock to Mythical Sculpture Installations
China's animated sensation *Ne Zha 2* has sparked a cultural phenomenon in Chengdu, where residents and tourists are lining up to take photos with newly installed sculptures of the rebellious deity. Social media platforms show hashtag #NeZhaInChengdu trending nationwide, with users recreating the film's iconic poses.
Box Office Lightning Strikes Twice
The sequel has grossed over 7 billion yuan ($960 million) domestically as of Saturday, per ticketing platform Maoyan – making it the highest-grossing animated film in a single market worldwide. The original 2019 *Ne Zha* previously held China's animation record at 5 billion yuan ($685 million).
Animation Renaissance Gains Momentum
Director Yang Yu (Jiaozi) confirmed through studio statements that 85% of the film's visual effects were created using cutting-edge AI-assisted tools. *This blend of cultural heritage and technological innovation represents a new frontier for Chinese storytelling,* said local film student Zhang Wei while visiting the Chengdu installations.
With the Ne Zha sculptures becoming permanent cultural landmarks and a third franchise film already in development, industry analysts predict sustained global interest in China's animation revolution.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
