Overseas visitors in China have been discovering the joys of Chinese cinema, with blockbusters like the hit animated film Ne Zha 2 providing an extra glimpse into the country's rich culture during their travels.
Ne Zha 2, the sequel to the 2019 animated hit Ne Zha, has become a worldwide sensation, exceeding 13 billion yuan (about 1.8 billion U.S. dollars) as of Friday night, according to box office tracker Dengta Data.
Since its official release on Feb 14 in the United States, Canada, Australia and many other countries around the world, the movie has sparked widespread discussion and sharing, with viewers connecting with its stunning visuals, rich storytelling and deep cultural resonance.
Meanwhile, China's recent visa-free policy for many countries has driven a travel boom to the country, and seeing Ne Zha 2 during a trip to China has become a highlight for travelers in the country during the film's ongoing theatrical run.
"I want to let my daughter watch it. I think she'll like it," said Coy Amanda Paige, a viewer and traveler from the U.S.
"I think it's very funny and nicely made and probably very good for kids or young people. But what is interesting is the way how the Chinese culture is actually emphasized through the different characters. And I've seen as well that the quality of the animation and the image is quite high," stated Courel Benedicte, a French visitor.
"I come from Germany. We celebrated this year's Spring Festival in Suzhou. Before I observed some Chinese behaviors I cannot understand, but (when) I saw this film, it's more clear, because the film is especially about the Chinese history, a lot of the Chinese culture. And for every foreigner, I would recommend to see this film, because then your eyes will be open," added Sendzik Matthias, another visitor.
Other hit Chinese films, such as fantasy film "Creation of the Gods II: Demon Forces" and mystery thriller "Detective Chinatown 1900", are hitting the big screen around the world, drawing widespread attention.
"I've watched the 'Ne Zha 1' and 'Monkey King: Hero is Back', and I really like them. I'm very fond of their special effects and such. Also, I've completed (the hit video game) 'Black Myth: Wukong'," said a Malaysian tourist in China.
Overseas tourists make animated hit "Ne Zha 2" part of China travel itinerary
