Dhaka, Feb 10 (Xinhua/UNB) — Animated blockbuster Ne Zha 2 has set a new global box office record, surpassing Star Wars: The Force Awakens to become the highest-grossing film ever in a single market.
According to data from ticketing platform Beacon, the film had earned over 6.79 billion yuan (approximately $947 million) in China by 9:11 p.m. on Friday, overtaking the North American earnings of The Force Awakens.
Already the highest-grossing film in Chinese history, Ne Zha 2 broke the previous domestic box office record held by The Battle at Lake Changjin in just over eight days, amassing more than 5.77 billion yuan by Thursday afternoon.
The film’s success has sparked excitement among Chinese netizens, with many celebrating its achievements and expressing optimism for the country’s film industry. A widely shared comment quoted the movie’s protagonist, Nezha: “I am the master of my own destiny.”
Box office predictions for Ne Zha 2 continue to rise, with Maoyan revising its forecast to 10.85 billion yuan (about $1.51 billion), making it the first Chinese film projected to exceed the 10-billion-yuan milestone.
Building on the success of its 2019 predecessor, Ne Zha 2 continues the story of the legendary mythological figure. The plot follows Nezha and Aobing as their souls are preserved while their physical forms deteriorate. With help from the immortal Taiyi Zhenren, they embark on a journey to rebuild their bodies and confront new challenges.
Blending stunning animation with a narrative rich in folklore, the film has captivated audiences since its Chinese New Year release, contributing half of the record-breaking 9.5 billion yuan total box office earnings during the 2025 Spring Festival holiday.
The movie’s broad appeal is evident in its diverse audience, with a high percentage of viewers attending in groups. It has particularly drawn families and lured back many moviegoers aged 30 to 39, a demographic that had been less active in theaters in recent years.
Industry analysts see Ne Zha 2 as a turning point for China’s animation sector, especially after a challenging 2024, during which box office revenue declined significantly. Its record-breaking performance is being hailed as a much-needed boost for the industry.
Film critic Rao Shuguang attributed its success to a compelling blend of traditional mythology and modern storytelling, making it resonate with contemporary audiences.
Director Yang Yu, also known as Jiaozi, emphasized that the global appeal of Chinese films depends on their storytelling and emotional depth. “A strong script, engaging characters, and a moving story are what truly connect with audiences worldwide,” he said.
With its unprecedented box office success, Ne Zha 2 is expected to extend its influence beyond China, serving as a cultural bridge that introduces international audiences to Chinese mythology and storytelling.