The fantasy feature "Nezha 2" has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the top-grossing domestic animated film of all time in China.

As of Wednesday, the film has grossed over 5.05 billion yuan (approximately US$705 million) since its premiere on Jan. 29, just eight days ago, according to data from ticketing app Beacon.

This impressive figure surpasses the previous record set by the first "Nezha" film, which earned nearly 5.04 billion yuan in 2019. With ticket sales continuing to rise, projections suggest that the sequel could reach a total box office revenue of 6 billion yuan, marking a record for Chinese cinema.

Rooted in Chinese mythology, "Nezha 2" is inspired by the character from the Ming Dynasty novel "Fengshen Yanyi" (or "The Investiture of the Gods") and is also depicted as a hero in the classic "Journey to the West." Directed by Yang Yu (nicknamed Jiaozi), the film takes creative liberties by focusing on Nezha's struggles and growth, reimagining traditional elements while maintaining cultural authenticity.

The film explores themes of personal identity, self-fulfillment, family, and friendship, resonating deeply with audiences. "As I was watching, I burst out in both laughter and tears," said Zhang Bohan, a film enthusiast from Beijing. “It’s hilarious at the beginning but deeply touching when the mother and son are separated."

Visually, "Nezha 2" surpasses its predecessor, featuring over 1,900 special effects shots that enhance the cinematic experience. The film's detailed design, from Nezha's costumes to the architecture of the underwater Dragon Palace, showcases traditional Chinese culture's unique charm.

With a rating exceeding 95 percent on Douban, a popular Chinese film review platform, "Nezha 2" has captivated audiences with its stunning visuals and engaging storyline. Its domestic success has heightened expectations for international performance, with screenings planned in countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Egypt, Singapore, Japan, and South Korea.

Gou Qiangshi, an associate professor at Chengdu University's College of Chinese & ASEAN Arts, emphasizes that Chinese literary classics serve as crucial inspiration for domestic animated films. The key to revitalizing these classics lies in creatively adapting them to fit contemporary narratives.

In recent years, animated films celebrating traditional Chinese culture have gained traction, leading to a rapid development phase. Titles like "Chang'an," "White Snake," and "Nezha" have sparked widespread interest, marking a new trend in Chinese cinema.

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