When examining the statistics, they may seem unbelievable. Not only is it the initial non-Hollywood film to surpass $1 billion in the US, but it has since amassed over $2.2 billion and is still climbing, predominantly from its native China.
This achievement makes “Ne Zha II” the highest-grossing animated movie ever, even when adjusted for inflation. It currently ranks as the fifth top-grossing movie globally, trailing just behind James Cameron’s “Titanic.” However, it has significant potential to surpass it, especially with an upcoming English-language dub and theatrical release scheduled for this Friday.
For individuals unfamiliar with the mythical demon boy who soars on flaming rings, certain aspects of “Ne Zha II” may be perplexing. Questions arise such as: What is the narrative about? Why is everyone, from TikTok to the New York Times to Donald Trump, discussing China’s supremacy over Hollywood? Why is it noteworthy that one of the primary antagonists disguises as a jungle cat? And how did a pug-nosed demon baby become the world’s most recognizable figure suddenly?
Understanding the storyline could be the most bewildering aspect, particularly for Westerners unacquainted with the character as a cultural icon. Although it is conceivable to follow the events of the sequel without watching the first installment, it is not advisable to attempt this cinematic feat with this particular film. Without the foundational context gained from growing up with Ne Zha and his cultural background, diving into the sequel without viewing the original would be akin to entering “Avengers: Endgame” without comprehending the significance of the big purple antagonist’s quest for the shiny stones.
Fortunately, the first film is accessible for viewing on YouTube for free. Nevertheless, for those set on watching “Ne Zha II” blindly or seeking insight before the trailers conclude, here is a summary.
Breaking down the storyline:
Derived mainly from the 16th-century Chinese novel “Investiture of the Gods,” the movie narrates the tale of the protagonist Ne Zha. Initially destined to be the reincarnation of the celestial “Spirit Pearl,” the immortal Shen Gongbao, instead, ensures that Ne Zha is formed from the perilous “Demon Orb” – contrasting elements of a recently vanquished celestial entity.
Tragically, the Demon Orb was destined to be obliterated by celestial lightning on Ne Zha’s third birthday, marking him for imminent demise. Concurrently, Shen Gongbao, embittered by perpetual neglect for promotion in the heavenly court – partly due to his concealed identity as a shape-shifting tiger-demon – betrays his superiors.
He delivers the Spirit Pearl to the Dragon King, condemned by heaven to guard an army of demons beneath the sea. By infusing the Spirit Pearl into the Dragon King’s son, Ao Bing, the two scheme to liberate themselves. Nevertheless, Ne Zha and Ao Bing forge a formidable friendship, ultimately sacrificing themselves to safeguard Ne Zha’s hometown.
Following the dissolution of their physical forms, the sequel commences with the duo compelled to share Ne Zha’s body. Tasked once again with altering his fate, Ne Zha opts for a heavenly trial that could grant access to a magical elixir for reconstituting Ao Bing’s body.
Simultaneously, conflicting machinations from Shen Gongbao, the Dragon King, and the current heavenly ruler, Wuliang, converge to complicate and directly challenge Ne Zha’s objectives, influencing the perception of his character.
A tale of acceptance:
It encapsulates a narrative of belonging and destiny, akin to stories ranging from “Hercules” to “Hellboy,” portraying a demigod of mixed human and celestial lineage seeking acceptance. By significantly transforming the character’s original essence, Ne Zha has evolved into a cherished cultural symbol. From an animated TV series to live-action films and a prominent feature in the recent video game “Black Myth: Wukong,” Ne Zha enjoys widespread popularity in China.
Since its introduction in China, adapted from the story of Nalakuvara in the Buddhist text “Buddhacharita” disseminated during the Tang dynasty, it has amalgamated diverse philosophies and folklore. The narrative of Ne Zha incorporates elements from various mythologies, military history, Buddhism, Confucianism, Taoism, and more.
Nevertheless, the critical aspect contributing to its success beyond China is the exploration of interpretations on good and evil, fate, and self-determination. In alignment with Taoism, Ne Zha challenges the simplistic dichotomy of good and evil, depicting the hero as a demon while his primary adversary is endowed with celestial energies.
Much like the yin and yang philosophy, Taoism emphasizes the interconnectedness and complementarity of good and evil, essential components constituting a neutral whole. Determining who or what embodies pure righteousness or villainy is often a fallacy.
The primary appeal for contemporary audiences lies