On January 29, Sina reported that the Chinese film industry is experiencing a vibrant boom as a series of blockbuster films hit theaters, igniting fierce competition for box office revenue. Among them, the highly anticipated animated feature Ne Zha: The Devil’s Wrath quickly rose to the top spot on the box office chart during the Lunar New Year holiday, earning over 500 million CNY (approximately 1.55 million USD) within just 7 hours of its release.
Ne Zha: The Devil’s Wrath is the sequel to Ne Zha: Birth of the Demon Child. The first installment achieved impressive revenues of over 4.6 billion CNY, becoming the highest-grossing animated film in Chinese cinema history. This remarkable feat had not been surpassed by any other film in nearly five years. As a result, many viewers eagerly anticipate the second installment of Ne Zha: The Devil’s Wrath.
Because the first film set a high standard, it was praised as a “rewrite of the history of Chinese animated films” and “a significant leap forward for Chinese animation.” Therefore, audiences have high expectations for the sequel. Before its official release, the film had already earned pre-sale revenue of 287 million CNY. However, theaters are allocating numerous screenings for Ne Zha: The Devil’s Wrath to capitalize on the audience’s excitement to see the film.
After its initial screenings, Ne Zha: The Devil’s Wrath received high praise for its storyline and visuals. The film continues the tale of the character Ne Zha, who faces challenges from the powerful deity Trần Đường Quan. However, the characters are developed with depth, showcasing their human traits and humor. As a result, audiences find themselves drawn to the film’s new narrative framework.
By refreshing the character of Ne Zha, the film presents him in a more relatable light, breaking away from traditional portrayals that often depict him as an antagonist. This transformation appeals to a wider demographic, attracting audiences of all ages. The film is not just an entertainment piece but also conveys significant themes about life.
In terms of box office performance, Ne Zha: The Devil’s Wrath is expected to surpass Detective Chinatown 4 (also known as Chinatown Detective 8). The previous three installments grossed around 10 billion CNY. The fourth installment is anticipated to deliver a delightful comedy experience during the festive season. The third installment is a sequel to the film Feng Shen Bang, which starred Vu Thi Chinh.
Directed by the talented Hiệp, the film Ne Zha: The Devil’s Wrath achieved remarkable box office success, surpassing 380 million CNY shortly after its release. However, its initial earnings quickly dropped due to its content’s inability to attract viewers.
In conclusion, the total box office revenue during the Lunar New Year period in China has reached 2 billion CNY, showcasing the thriving film industry and the audience’s love for animated features like Ne Zha: The Devil’s Wrath.
