Ne Zha 2 is breaking records at the international box office primarily because it has become the highest-grossing animated film ever, earning over $1.9 billion worldwide, with a particularly strong performance in China where it shattered multiple box office milestones[1][2][4]. Its success is unprecedented for an animated film, especially one originating outside Hollywood, marking a significant achievement in global cinema.
Several key factors contribute to Ne Zha 2’s extraordinary box office performance. First, the film’s release timing during the Chinese New Year holiday in 2025 allowed it to capitalize on a peak moviegoing period. Within just three days of release in China, it earned 1.1 billion yuan (about $137 million), becoming the first film to reach 1 billion yuan during this holiday season. It continued to break records by reaching 2 billion yuan on the fourth day, 3 billion on the fifth, and 4 billion yuan by the sixth day, surpassing previous speed records set by major Chinese blockbusters like Detective Chinatown 3 and The Battle at Lake Changjin[2].
Ne Zha 2’s rapid box office growth reflects not only strong initial interest but also sustained audience enthusiasm. By the eighth day, it had earned over 5 billion yuan (approximately $684 million), surpassing the total box office of the original Ne Zha film and becoming the highest-grossing animated film in mainland China. The film’s franchise also became only the second film series in China to exceed 10 billion yuan (about $1.37 billion) in total box office revenue with just two movies, highlighting the strong brand loyalty and fanbase it has cultivated[2].
The film’s appeal extends beyond China, contributing to its international box office dominance. Ne Zha 2’s global earnings of nearly $1.9 billion place it at the top of the 2025 worldwide box office charts, ahead of major Hollywood releases such as Disney’s Lilo & Stitch and the Minecraft movie. This international success is notable because it demonstrates the growing global appetite for high-quality animated films from non-Western studios, signaling a shift in the animation market that has traditionally been dominated by Hollywood studios[1][4].
Another important factor in Ne Zha 2’s record-breaking run is the extensive merchandising and brand engagement surrounding the film. Official Ne Zha 2 merchandise became best-selling across Chinese stores, with many products selling out quickly. Online sales on platforms like Taobao exceeded 50 million yuan shortly after the film’s release, and within two weeks, merchandise sales surpassed 400 million yuan. This strong commercial ecosystem around the film helped maintain its visibility and cultural relevance, driving more audiences to theaters[2].
The film’s success also reflects the increasing sophistication and quality of Chinese animation. Ne Zha 2 benefits from advanced animation technology, compelling storytelling, and cultural resonance that appeals both domestically and internationally. Its narrative draws on Chinese mythology and folklore, which provides a unique cultural flavor that distinguishes it from Western animated films while still delivering universal themes that resonate globally[2][1].
In addition, the broader context of the 2025 global box office landscape has favored films like Ne Zha 2. The year saw a resurgence of animated films and franchises dominating ticket sales, alongside strong performances from horror and gaming adaptations. Audiences have shown a renewed enthusiasm for theatrical experiences, especially for visually spectacular and culturally rich films. Ne Zha 2’s combination of cutting-edge animation, cultural storytelling, and strategic release timing positioned it perfectly to capture this wave of audience interest[1][4].
Overall, Ne Zha 2’s record-breaking box office performance is the result of a perfect storm of factors: strategic release timing during a major holiday, rapid and sustained box office growth in China, strong international appeal, extensive merchandising success, and the rising global prominence of Chinese animation. Its achievement not only sets new benchmarks for animated films but also signals a broader shift in the global film industry toward more diverse and culturally varied storytelling.
