Nezha 2 Breaks Records, Surpassing Pixar’s Inside Out 2 as Top-Grossing Animated Film Globally
Chinese animated blockbuster Nezha 2 overtakes Inside Out 2 to become the highest-grossing animated film globally, marking a major milestone for China’s animation industry.
Nezha 2 Surpasses Inside Out 2, Becomes the Highest-Grossing Animated Film Globally
In a historic feat for Chinese animation, Nezha 2 has outpaced Pixar’s Inside Out 2 to claim the title of the highest-grossing animated film worldwide. The blockbuster, which has captivated audiences across China, has amassed a staggering 12.3 billion yuan ($1.69 billion) at the box office, according to data from ticketing platform Maoyan (1896.HK).
This achievement propels Nezha 2 into the ranks of the world’s highest-grossing films, securing the eighth spot in the all-time global box office rankings. While Hollywood animations often rely on international markets for revenue, over 99% of Nezha 2‘s earnings have come from mainland China, reflecting the immense support and enthusiasm from domestic audiences.
A Sequel That Redefines Chinese Animation
A follow-up to the 2019 blockbuster Nezha, Nezha 2 builds on the mythology of its predecessor, which was based on the classic 16th-century Chinese novel The Investiture of the Gods. The story follows the journey of a young hero with magical powers who fights to protect the fortress town of Chentangguan. Directed by Sichuan-born filmmaker Yang Yu, also known as Jiaozi, the film continues the legacy of its predecessor while setting new benchmarks in Chinese animation.
The success of Nezha 2 has also contributed to record-breaking numbers for China’s 2025 Lunar New Year box office, reinforcing the rising dominance of homegrown productions in a market traditionally dominated by Hollywood imports.
The Rise of Chinese Animation on the Global Stage
The remarkable performance of Nezha 2 is a testament to the rapid evolution of China’s animation industry. Over the past decade, Chinese animated films have steadily gained recognition, both domestically and internationally. The first Nezha film, released in 2019, grossed over $700 million, setting the stage for homegrown productions to compete with major Hollywood studios.
With Nezha 2, China has demonstrated that its animation sector is not only thriving but also capable of delivering record-breaking hits that challenge established industry giants like Disney and Pixar. The film’s success underscores a broader shift in global cinema, where regional productions are beginning to assert themselves on a grand scale.
What Sets Nezha 2 Apart?
Several factors have contributed to the phenomenal success of Nezha 2. The film’s vibrant animation, compelling storytelling, and deep cultural resonance have struck a chord with audiences. Unlike many Western animated features that often blend humor with adventure, Nezha 2 leans into themes of heroism, destiny, and familial duty—elements that resonate strongly with Chinese audiences.
Additionally, its domestic success can be attributed to China’s rapidly growing cinema infrastructure and the increasing preference for locally produced films over Hollywood imports. The government’s support for domestic filmmaking has further enabled Chinese studios to produce high-quality animated films that appeal to a mass audience.
The Global Impact of Nezha 2
While Nezha 2 has primarily relied on the Chinese market for its box office earnings, its record-breaking numbers could pave the way for broader international distribution. The original Nezha film received international screenings, and its sequel could follow suit, potentially expanding its audience beyond China.
Streaming platforms may also play a crucial role in bringing Nezha 2 to a global audience. As demand for diverse animated content grows, platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime, and Disney+ could see potential in distributing Chinese animated films to Western audiences, further cementing China’s influence in the global animation industry.
What’s Next for Chinese Animation?
The triumph of Nezha 2 is likely to inspire more Chinese filmmakers to push the boundaries of animation. Studios are increasingly investing in high-quality productions, blending traditional folklore with modern storytelling techniques. With other upcoming projects in the pipeline, China’s animation industry is poised for continued growth, potentially challenging Hollywood’s long-standing dominance in the genre.
As the industry expands, Chinese animated films may see increased international collaborations, leading to wider distribution and greater recognition on the global stage. If Nezha 2’s success is any indication, the future of Chinese animation looks brighter than ever.
Nezha 2’s record-breaking success signals a new era for Chinese animation, demonstrating its capability to rival Hollywood productions in both quality and revenue. With its compelling storytelling, stunning visuals, and deep cultural themes, the film has captivated audiences and rewritten the rules of global box office success. As China’s animation industry continues to evolve, it will be fascinating to see how it shapes the future of animated storytelling on the world stage.
Source: (Reuters)
(Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available information and box office reports. Revenue figures and rankings are subject to updates as new data becomes available. Readers are encouraged to refer to official sources for the latest statistics and information.)