Ne Zha 2 (2025) Review – A Visual Masterpiece That Rewrites Animated History
The Story
Ne Zha 2 continues the mythological saga that began with the 2019 hit. After surviving heavenly lightning, Ne Zha and Ao Bing remain as spirits, caught between life and death. Master Taiyi Zhenren tries to restore their mortal bodies with the Seven-Colored Sacred Lotus, but the ritual is violently interrupted by Ao Bing’s father, the Dragon King Ao Guang. Believing his son lost, Ao Guang unleashes chaos upon humanity. To survive, Ne Zha and Ao Bing must face dragons, gods, and destiny itself, in a tale that blends high-stakes action with heartfelt themes of love, loyalty, and sacrifice.
Key Performances
The power of this sequel lies not in live actors, but in its dedicated voice cast. Lü Yanting captures Ne Zha’s mischievous, defiant spirit, while Mo Han lends Ao Bing a reserved strength that softens in moments of vulnerability. Their exchanges form the emotional heartbeat of the story, as friendship and brotherhood outweigh divine expectations. Supporting performances, especially Taiyi Zhenren’s humorous yet wise presence and Ao Guang’s commanding menace, deepen the drama and provide balance between lightheartedness and epic gravitas.
Direction and Visuals
Directed by Yang Yu (Jiaozi), the film demonstrates a staggering leap in animation quality. With contributions from thousands of artists across over a hundred studios, the visual design is breathtaking. From underwater battles rendered with glistening detail to celestial landscapes shimmering in surreal colors, the film embraces scale and spectacle at every turn. Fight choreography feels fluid and visceral, while the fantastical settings reflect a mythological grandeur that rivals any Hollywood production. The sheer artistry cements Ne Zha 2 as a landmark achievement in global animation.
Thematic Depth
At its core, the film is more than mythic spectacle—it is about resilience, destiny, and the struggle to define one’s own path. Ne Zha embodies defiance against fate, while Ao Bing represents the burden of duty to family and lineage. Together, their journey speaks to friendship, sacrifice, and the desire to break free from cycles of vengeance. The narrative suggests that true strength is not just in power, but in compassion and unity. This balance of spectacle and introspection gives the story both emotional resonance and cultural significance.
Final Verdict
Ne Zha 2 is a rare sequel that not only honors but surpasses its predecessor. With dazzling animation, heartfelt performances, and a story that resonates across cultures, it has earned its place as the highest-grossing animated film of all time. While its frenetic pacing may overwhelm at moments, the ambition and artistry behind it make the film unforgettable. It is not just a triumph of Chinese animation, but a milestone for world cinema.