The biggest movie of 2025 isn’t from Disney, Pixar, or Marvel, it’s Ne Zha II, a Chinese animated fantasy that has stunned the world with over $2.2 billion at the global box office since its January 29 release in mainland China. Written and directed by Jiao Zi, the film follows Ne Zha, a mischievous demon boy with uncontrollable powers, as he battles to save his friends and family.
Critics have hailed its “spectacular visuals” and genre-bending style, giving it a Rotten Tomatoes score above 90%. Now dubbed in English with Michelle Yeoh among the voice cast, A24 released the film in U.S. theaters on August 22. Though its domestic opening earned just $1.5 million, its global success has already made history as the first non-Hollywood film to cross $2 billion.
The movie isn’t strictly for kids its dark tone, violent battles, and intense visuals make it more adult-oriented. Still, its universal themes of friendship, sacrifice, and resilience are captivating audiences worldwide.
With 4,000 animators across 138 studios working for five years to bring it to life, Ne Zha II proves that animation beyond Hollywood can dominate the global stage. Experts predict its influence will ripple into future filmmaking, reshaping how the world views animated storytelling.
What do you think could Ne Zha II set a new standard for international animation?
