Film fans from Hong Kong have been flocking across the border to the southern Chinese metropolis of Shenzhen to view the animated blockbuster "Ne Zha 2", with some eager to enjoy an early viewing of the hugely popular movie ahead of its upcoming release in the region on Saturday.
The film has shattered numerous box office records since it was released on the Chinese mainland during the Chinese New Year and on Tuesday dethroned Disney's 2024 picture "Inside Out 2" to become the highest-grossing animated movie of all time.
It has already become the first film to gross the one-billion-U.S.-dollar in a single market and won the first non-Hollywood title to join the coveted billion-dollar club.
The film was set to have its premiere in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region on Tuesday night prior to its public release in the region on Saturday.
However, the huge hype surrounding the movie has encouraged many Hong Kong residents to head across to Shenzhen, with many saying they were enticed after seeing movie trailers and reading reviews, and simply couldn't wait any longer.
"I'm from Hong Kong and I'm here to support Chinese films. I've seen online comments about the animated film, saying it is a good and touching movie with an excellent storyline that's enlightening for viewers," said a Hong Kong resident who had headed to Shenzhen.
As the long-awaited sequel to the 2019 animated adventure "Ne Zha", the new movie draws inspiration from a mythological tale dating back to China's Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) period, showcasing cutting-edge special effects which demonstrate the creativity of China's movie industry and highlight the country's cultural charm.
"I specifically watched the first movie in Hong Kong and came today to watch its sequel here in Shenzhen, as it hasn't been screened in Hong Kong. I want to see what makes this animation so successful in attracting many adults and to learn about the latest development of Chinese animation," said another Hong Kong resident surnamed Yuen.
Ne Zha 2 has seen a high screening rate and audience attendance in cinemas across Shenzhen since its release on Jan 29, with the high-quality facilities in the city's movie theaters helping deliver a first-class viewing experience, also being a key factor, in attracting Hong Kong residents, according to one cinema employee.
Hong Kong film fans flock to mainland to see much-hyped "Ne Zha 2"
Hong Kong film fans flock to mainland to see much-hyped "Ne Zha 2"
