After shattering box office records in China, the blockbuster film "Ne Zha 2" is now sparking a frenzy in the United States, taking its popularity to a global audience.
As of Wednesday, theaters across the country have begun screening the film, making it widely available to moviegoers.
At a theater in New York City, all the IMAX showings of "Ne Zha 2" on Wednesday were almost sold out. Elsewhere in the region, the film was screened over 20 times in a single day, with a remarkable attendance rate exceeding 90 percent at each showing.
"Amazing -- the special effects, the artificial intelligence. It was this really beautiful feast for the eyes," said John, a moviegoer.
"'Ne Zha 2' is fantastic. It is the first Chinese movie that is in the top league with its box office earnings among other Hollywood animations," said Zhang Chen, an overseas Chinese student.
A similar scene of excitement and activity was also witnessed at the iconic TCL Chinese Theater in Los Angeles.
Industry experts believe that the release of "Ne Zha 2" will serve as a cultural bridge, providing American audiences with a unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of Chinese culture.
"It's always great to introduce people to new cultures. People in Los Angeles are very excited to see it," said Brett Fellman, president of TCL Chinese Theater's film and marketing.
"It made me cry, both laughing. I'm really interested in Chinese mythology after watching that film," said Maelin, a moviegoer.
So far, the total box office takings of "Ne Zha 2" have surpassed 10 billion yuan (around 1.37 billion U.S. dollars), making it the third-highest grossing animated film of all time and currently ranks as the 17th most lucrative movie ever made in terms of total global earnings.
The "Ne Zha 2" phenomenon is now looking to make its mark on the international market as it begins to be screened in theaters around the world. Its global release is expected to significantly increase its overall earnings.
Chinese animated film "Ne Zha 2" wins over moviegoers in U.S.
Visiting Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said Saturday China is willing to work with Lesotho to strengthen exchanges on governance experience, enhance coordination in multilateral affairs, and advance the China-Lesotho strategic partnership.
Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, made the remarks when meeting with Lesotho Prime Minister Sam Matekane in the capital of Lesotho.
During the meeting, Wang congratulated Lesotho on the 60th anniversary of its independence this year, and spoke highly of Lesotho government's efforts to prioritize economic development and steer the African country onto a path of sustainable growth. Since the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in 2024, the two sides have advanced cooperation under the 10 partnership action plans unveiled at the summit, successfully implementing a number of key projects to effectively promote Lesotho's development and revitalization, Wang said.
China stands ready to work with Lesotho to strengthen exchanges on governance experience, enhance coordination in multilateral affairs, and push for greater development of the China-Lesotho strategic partnership, he added.
Calling on the two sides to firmly support each other, Wang said that China will accelerate the implementation of its zero-tariff policy for African countries, including Lesotho, expand bilateral trade, investment and industrial cooperation, facilitate broader access of Lesotho's specialty products to the Chinese market, and continue to support Lesotho's national development.
China will continue to stand firmly with African countries, uphold justice for the Global South, including Lesotho, oppose unilateralism and acts of bullying, and work together to build a community with a shared future for humanity, Wang said.
On his part, Matekane said during the meeting that Lesotho cherishes its friendship with China and the strategic partnership between the two countries, and expressed gratitude for China's valuable support for the development of African countries, including Lesotho.
Lesotho firmly adheres to the one-China principle and resolutely supports China in safeguarding its core interests, he said, noting that his country stands ready to strengthen strategic mutual trust with China, expand people-to-people exchanges, jointly implement the outcomes of the FOCAC Beijing Summit, and deepen cooperation in areas such as infrastructure, manufacturing and energy.
Matekane stressed that China's zero-tariff policy for African products will inject new impetus into Lesotho's development. He also expressed Lesotho's willingness to strengthen solidarity and cooperation with China on multilateral platforms such as BRICS to jointly address global challenges.
On the same day, Wang also held talks with Lejone Mpotjoana, minister of foreign affairs and international relations of Lesotho.
China, Lesotho to strengthen exchanges, advance cooperation
China, Lesotho to strengthen exchanges, advance cooperation
