The Chinese animated film "Nezha 2: The Rebirth of Nezha" has surpassed all other animated films globally in box office revenue, reaching $1.38 billion. This achievement dethrones the previous record-holder, also a Chinese film, "Monkey King: Hero is Back." Released in January 2025, "Nezha 2" continues the story of the popular mythological figure, this time set 3,000 years later in a dystopian future.
In a remarkable feat of cinematic achievement, the Chinese animated film "Nezha 2," officially titled "Nezha Conquers the Sea," has ascended to the pinnacle of the global animated film industry, securing its position as the highest-grossing animated film of all time. As reported by Reuters on February 18, 2025, the film's box office receipts have surpassed all other animated features worldwide, marking a significant milestone not only for Chinese cinema but for the animation landscape as a whole. This accomplishment displaces the previous record holder, solidifying "Nezha 2's" place in cinematic history. The film, a sequel to the immensely popular 2019 film "Nezha," continues the narrative of the titular mythological figure, further captivating audiences with its stunning visuals, compelling storytelling, and deeply resonant cultural themes. The film's success demonstrates the burgeoning power of Chinese animation on the international stage and underscores the growing global appetite for high-quality animated content originating from outside traditional Hollywood studios. This achievement represents a significant shift in the global film industry's balance of power and further cements China's position as a major player in the world of entertainment. The news of "Nezha 2's" record-breaking performance has reverberated throughout the industry, generating widespread discussion and analysis about the future of animation and the increasing influence of Chinese cinema on a global scale. The film's success is a testament to the dedication and talent of its creators, as well as the resonating power of the Nezha story within Chinese culture and its ability to transcend borders and captivate international audiences. This accomplishment serves as a powerful symbol of the evolving landscape of the global film industry.
Summary of Comments ( 11 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43116403
Hacker News commenters discuss the success of Nezha 2, attributing it to factors beyond just domestic Chinese support. Some highlight the increasing quality of Chinese animation and storytelling, suggesting it's now attracting a wider international audience. Others mention the film's accessibility through streaming services, expanding its reach beyond theatrical releases. A few commenters express curiosity about how revenue is calculated and distributed with China's unique box office system and streaming landscape. Some also question the article's claim of "highest-grossing globally," pointing out that it omits Japanese anime films like Demon Slayer and Spirited Away which have higher lifetime grosses, and clarify that Nezha 2 is the highest-grossing non-US animated film. Finally, some comments touch upon the ongoing challenges and censorship within the Chinese film industry.
The Hacker News post titled "Nezha 2 becomes highest-grossing animated film globally" has generated several comments discussing the film's success and the broader context of the Chinese animation industry.
Several commenters express surprise and even skepticism about the film's box office numbers, particularly given its relative lack of international recognition. They question whether the figures accurately reflect genuine popularity or are potentially inflated. Some suggest the concentration of revenue within China raises questions about the global claim.
There's a discussion comparing the film's performance to other animated giants like Frozen and its sequels, highlighting the cultural specificity of certain animated films and how that impacts their global reach. Commenters note that while "Nezha 2" may be a major hit domestically, its success hasn't translated to the same level of international box office performance.
Some commenters discuss the rising prominence of Chinese animation, with "Nezha 2" serving as a prime example of this trend. They speculate about the potential for future Chinese animated films to achieve even greater global recognition.
A few comments touch upon the technical aspects and quality of Chinese animation, with some expressing admiration for the visual advancements showcased in films like "Nezha 2." Others suggest that while the technical prowess is evident, there's still room for improvement in storytelling and character development to truly compete on a global scale.
A couple of comments delve into the specific cultural references and mythology present in the "Nezha" franchise, which might be a barrier to broader international appeal. This ties into a larger conversation about the challenges of translating culturally specific narratives for a global audience.
Finally, there are some comments simply expressing interest in watching the film, demonstrating a degree of curiosity piqued by the news of its box office success.