A rare collaboration between independent distributor A24 and China’s state-backed CMC Pictures will bring the animated blockbuster Ne Zha 2 to theaters across North America this summer. The film, which has already shattered global box office records, will see an English-language version released in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand beginning August 22. Screenings will include Imax, 3D, and other premium large formats.
Ne Zha 2 has become the highest-grossing animated film of all time globally, following its release earlier this year during China’s Lunar New Year holiday. It has amassed a staggering $2.2 billion, surpassing even Pixar’s Inside Out 2 (which earned $1.7 billion) at the worldwide box office. Remarkably, almost all of its revenue has come from the Chinese mainland, making its North American release a significant barometer for Chinese content’s international appeal.
A Modern Mythological Saga
Directed by Yang Yu (also known as Jiaozi), Ne Zha 2 is the long-awaited sequel to the 2019 film Ne Zha. The original was a modern reimagining of a mythological Chinese folk hero, which itself became a cultural phenomenon and a milestone for Chinese animation. Ne Zha 2 continues this legacy, blending high-concept storytelling with advanced visual effects.
The franchise follows the rebellious young demigod Ne Zha, who, born to mortal parents and viewed with suspicion by the heavens, grapples with immense powers and a destiny to confront an ancient force threatening humanity.
Read more: ‘Ne Zha 2’ Makes Box Office History, Becomes First Animated Film to Surpass $2 Billion Globally
Oscar-winner Michelle Yeoh leads the English voice cast for the film. “I’m honored to be part of Ne Zha 2, a landmark in Chinese animation and a powerful reminder of how universal our stories can be,” Yeoh stated. “Sharing this with audiences in English is such a joy, and I can’t wait for everyone to experience the wonder, heart, spectacular artistry, and magic of this film on the big screen.”
A Litmus Test for Chinese Content
Ne Zha 2 arrives with significant critical acclaim, already ranking as the highest-rated animated film of the year on Rotten Tomatoes and one of 2025’s top-rated titles on Letterboxd, based on its original Chinese-language release.
The partnership between A24, known for its discerning approach to distribution, and CMC Pictures, China’s state-backed distributor, represents a crucial moment. This collaboration will serve as a litmus test for the U.S. market’s appetite for Chinese storytelling, particularly in the animated genre.
Read more: ‘Ne Zha 2’ Conquers China, But Can It Win Over the World?
It also highlights the strategic potential of cross-cultural animation when supported by a mix of talent and production scale. The film’s performance in North America could influence future distribution strategies for major Chinese productions.
