'Ne Zha 2': Redefining excellence in Chinese animated films

In the ever-evolving landscape of animation, few characters have captured the attention of audiences as Ne Zha. Five years after the blockbuster success of Ne Zha: Birth of the Demon Child (Ne Zha 1), the sequel, Ne Zha: Demon Child Conquers the Sea (Ne Zha 2), has once again proven the enduring attraction of traditional characters when infused with contemporary spirit. The traditional image of Ne Zha, a rebellious yet righteous hero, has been reshaped to resonate with modern audiences. This blend of myth and contemporary values showcases how traditional stories can be revitalized for new generations. Up to now, Ne Zha 2 has surpassed Star Wars: The Force Awakens to become the highest-grossing film in a single market globally, redefining the pinnacle of Chinese animation.

The making of Ne Zha 2 is a testament to the collective strength of China's animation industry. With 1,900 special effects shots and over 10,000 special effects elements, the film is a visual masterpiece. Over a hundred domestic animation teams and more than 4,000 professionals collaborated on this epic project. Film teams from popular franchises such as Boonie Bears, Deep Sea, and White Snake joined forces, bringing their unique talents and expertise to create a cohesive and stunning cinematic experience in Ne Zha 2. This collaboration highlights the unity and innovation within China's animation community.

Crafting perfection frame by frame

The pursuit of perfection is evident in every frame of Ne Zha 2. The behind-the-scenes team, represented by director Jiao Zi, has shown an unwavering commitment to artistic excellence, with scenes such as the 10-second "Heart-Piercing Curse" taking over a year to be perfect. The intricate details, such as the millions of hair-like chains that appeared chaotic yet orderly, showcase the team's meticulous craftsmanship. Director Jiao Zi's philosophy of setting seemingly unattainable goals and then striving to achieve them has driven the team to push the boundaries of animation. Their dedication to treating each work as their last ensures that every project is a labor of love and a tribute to the art of storytelling.

One of the most striking aspects of Ne Zha 2 is its celebration of traditional Chinese culture, including elements such as Taoism, traditional motifs, Sichuan dialect, and the Sanxingdui civilization. Additionally, the film incorporates a rich tapestry of musical elements, such as the hauntingly beautiful Dong ethnic chanting, the vibrant sounds of traditional instruments such as the suona (a double-reed woodwind instrument), pipa (a four-stringed Chinese lute), flute, and the powerful Mongolian throat singing. These musical styles not only enhance the film's atmosphere but also bring the unique cultural heritage of China's ethnic minorities to a global audience, showcasing the country's rich and diverse cultural landscape.

Cultural confidence and global appeal

Ne Zha 2 is more than just a film; it is a symbol of China's growing cultural confidence. As the Chinese film market continues to expand and capture international attention, the success of Ne Zha 2 demonstrates the power of Chinese stories to resonate with global audiences. The global reach of Chinese culture is not an act of self-admiration but an invitation for the world to appreciate the richness of its narratives. As Western studios increasingly mine Chinese lore (e.g., Disney's Mulan), Ne Zha 2 reclaims the storytelling mantle, proving that no one can narrate China's myths better than China itself.

In conclusion, Ne Zha 2 is a triumph of Chinese animation, showcasing the industry's ability to revitalize traditional characters, unite creative forces, and push the boundaries of artistic expression. It is a celebration of Chinese culture and a testament to the power of storytelling. As China's cultural influence continues to grow, films such as Ne Zha 2 are not only entertaining audiences but also building bridges between cultures and fostering a sense of global community.

The author is an MA student of English literature at Shandong University (Weihai). The views don't necessarily represent those of China Daily.

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