Ne Zha 2 is one of the most talked-about animated films in the world right now, and for good reason. This Chinese blockbuster has not only broken box office records but also captured the hearts of audiences across the globe with its stunning animation, deep storytelling, and universal themes. If you are curious about what makes Ne Zha 2 special, when and where you can watch it, and what the story is all about, this article covers everything you need to know in a simple, easy-to-understand way.
## The Release of Ne Zha 2
Ne Zha 2 first hit theaters in China on January 29, 2025, perfectly timed for the Chinese New Year celebrations[2][3]. The film quickly became a massive hit, drawing huge crowds and earning nearly $2 billion worldwide, making it one of the highest-grossing animated films of all time[2][6]. Interestingly, while Ne Zha 2 has been a global phenomenon, its success in the United States has been much smaller, with only about 1.2% of its total box office coming from American theaters[2]. Despite this, the film has been expanding its reach, with an English-dubbed version released in the U.S. by distributor A24[2].
The movie’s international rollout continued throughout 2025. On October 1, Ne Zha 2 premiered on the streaming platform iQIYI International in Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand, with a Thai-dubbed version available for local audiences[1]. In Greece, the film was released in theaters on October 2, 2025, with a Greek-dubbed version[5]. This global release strategy shows how Ne Zha 2 is aiming to connect with audiences everywhere, not just in China.
## The Creative Team Behind Ne Zha 2
Ne Zha 2 is directed by Yu Yang, who is also known by the name Jiaozi[2][3]. Jiaozi is famous for his attention to detail and spent years working with his team at Coloroom Pictures to make sure the sequel lived up to the high expectations set by the first Ne Zha film, which was also a major hit[2]. The screenplay is written by Jiaozi and is based on the classic Chinese novel Investiture of the Gods by Xu Zhonglin[3]. The film is produced by Liu Wenzhang and Wang Jing[3].
The voice cast is another highlight. The Mandarin version stars Lü Yanting, Han Mo, Lu Qi, Zhang Jiaming, Wang Deshun, and Zhuo Yongxi[3]. For international audiences, the English-dubbed version features well-known actors like Michelle Yeoh, Crystal Lee, Griffin Puatu, Aleks Le, Vincent Rodriguez III, Rick Zeiff, and Damien Haas[3]. This mix of talented voices helps bring the characters to life for viewers around the world.
## The Storyline of Ne Zha 2
Ne Zha 2 picks up where the first film left off, but you do not need to have seen the original to understand what is happening. The movie starts with a recap of the previous story, so new viewers can easily follow along[3]. However, watching the first film will help you feel more connected to the characters and their journey.
The story begins with a dramatic event: thunder destroys the bodies of Ne Zha and his friend Ao Bing[1]. Their souls are saved by Master Taiyi, who uses a magical seven-colored lotus to protect them as they await rebirth[1]. But just as they are about to start a new life, a new crisis threatens Chentang Pass, the home of Ne Zha and his family[1].
Ne Zha is faced with difficult choices. Should he focus on being reborn and starting fresh, or should he try to save his friend? Should he protect his home, or try to stop a disaster that could hurt many people? These questions drive the emotional core of the film, as Ne Zha struggles with his identity, his responsibilities, and what it means to be a hero[1].
Along the way, Ne Zha teams up with his companions to face powerful enemies. The action is fast-paced and visually spectacular, with animation that pushes the boundaries of what is possible in the medium[3][4]. But the film is not just about fights and special effects. It also explores deeper themes like courage, friendship, and the importance of making your own choices[1]. These universal ideas make the story relatable to audiences from different cultures and age groups[1].
## What Makes Ne Zha 2 Stand Out
Ne Zha 2 is more than just a sequel to a popular movie. It is a technical and narrative achievement that has raised the bar for animated films worldwide[4]. The animation is detailed and vibrant, creating a world that feels alive and full of wonder[3]. The humor is energetic and fun, balancing the more serious moments of the story[4].
One of the film’s strengths is its cultural richness. While the story is rooted in Chinese mythology, the themes are universal, making it easy for anyone to enjoy, no matter where they are from[1][3]. The movie does not try to water down its cultural roots to appeal to a global audience. Instead, it embraces its heritage while telling a story that speaks to everyone[2].
Another standout feature is the character development. Ne Zha is not a perfect hero. He makes mistakes, faces doubts, and has to learn from his experiences. This makes him a relatable and inspiring character, especially for younger viewers who are figuring out their own identities and values[1].
## The Global Impact of Ne Zha 2
Ne Zha 2’s success is a sign of how the world of blockbuster filmmaking is changing. It shows that you do not need to make a movie that looks and feels the same everywhere to achieve global success[2]. Instead, telling a powerful, culturally specific story with memorable characters can resonate with audiences everywhere[2].
The film’s box office numbers prove this point. By overtaking Pixar’s Inside Out 2, Ne Zha 2 became the highest-grossing animated film globally, a remarkable achievement for a non-Hollywood production[6]. This milestone is not just about money. It is about the growing influence of Chinese cinema and the increasing appetite for diverse stories in the global market.
## Where and How to Watch Ne Zha 2
If you want to watch Ne Zha 2, you have several options depending on where you live. In China, the film is available on iQIYI’s mainland platform, where it quickly became one of the most-watched movies, surpassing a heat index of 10,000[1]. In Southeast Asia, including Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand, you can stream it on iQIYI International, with a Thai-dubbed version for local viewers[1]. In Greece, the movie is playing in theaters with a Greek dub[5]. In the United States, the English-dubbed version is being shown in select theaters, with more screenings likely as the film’s popularity grows[2].
The film’s runtime is 144 minutes, so be prepared for an epic animated adventure[3][5]. It is rate
