Ne Zha 2: China’s Animated Sensation Arrives in Europe
The highly acclaimed animated film Ne Zha 2 is making its way to European audiences, with distributor Trinity CineAsia securing theatrical rights across 37 territories, including major markets such as the U.K., Germany, France, and Spain. The film is set to debut in the U.K. and Ireland on March 21, with sneak previews commencing on March 14. Following this initial launch, additional release dates for other European countries are anticipated shortly.
Record-Breaking Success
Ne Zha 2 has already achieved remarkable milestones, becoming the highest-grossing animated film in history with a staggering $2.06 billion in box office revenue since its release over the Chinese New Year in January. Notably, this positions it ahead of Pixar’s Inside Out 2, which has garnered $1.7 billion globally. Although the film only earned $18.8 million in its North American opening on February 14, this figure outstrips typical western performances of Chinese blockbusters.
A Groundbreaking Tale of Mythology
This sequel continues to draw inspiration from rich Chinese mythology and the revered 16th-century novel. In the original film Ne Zha (2019), the titular character emerged as the reincarnation of a demon, tasked with overcoming adversity to protect his village. The sequel maintains this narrative arc, as Ne Zha contends with new challenges posed by corrupt gods and demons ruling the celestial domain. Both installments are crafted under the direction of Yang Yu, also known as Jiaozi, with rumors of up to 4,000 animators contributing their skills to the sequel.
Cultural Impact and Ambitions
“Rarely do you find a film that captures the essence of its time, showcasing the unique ability of cinema to resonate with audiences while leaving a lasting cultural imprint – this is Ne Zha 2,”proclaimed Cedric Behrel, managing director of Trinity CineAsia.
The pan-European rollout represents an ambitious leap for Trinity CineAsia, which has previously introduced films like the Hong Kong action blockbuster Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In across select regions in Europe. Last year, the company also released Black Dog, a distinguished Chinese film that received accolades at the Cannes Film Festival under the Un Certain Regard category.
Building Connections and Expanding Reach
“Our extensive efforts over the years to cultivate relationships with exhibitors, media, and various stakeholders, coupled with our enhanced online presence, make [Ne Zha 2] a pivotal point for Trinity CineAsia. This film enables us to reach a broader audience across the continent and significantly enhance our offerings,”Behrel emphasized.
As Ne Zha 2 prepares for its European launch, it promises to captivate audiences with its imaginative storytelling and vibrant animation, reaffirming the growing influence of Chinese cinema on a global stage.