Chinese animated blockbuster Ne Zha 2 hit screens across more than 60 cinemas in Hong Kong and Macao on Saturday after smashing box office records on the Chinese mainland and becoming the highest-grossing animated movie of all time globally.
The film exceeded expectations on its first day in the special administrative regions, with screenings growing from 500 to over 800 sessions, marking an unprecedented milestone in Hong Kong and Macao cinema history.
Pre-sales for Ne Zha 2 have been wildly popular in both regions, especially for IMAX showings, with tickets for peak times quickly becoming unavailable.
The film not only showcases the depth of China's cultural heritage but also demonstrates how modern technology and creativity can breathe new life into ancient stories.
"I brought my family and children to watch the movie for the first time. This movie contains many elements of traditional Chinese culture such as family, upbringing, and family tradition, so that's why I specifically brought my children. After watching, I really hope to take my family and children to the picturesque landscapes that appeared in the movie, appreciate the beautiful scenery there, and also hope to taste the delicious food, hoping to try them all," said a moviegoer and Hong Kong resident.
"I came to watch the movie at the first opportunity. I had heard that Ne Zha 2 was great, and I found it really worthy of the reputation. Not only is it a high-quality animated film, but also a perfect blend of Chinese culture and modern technology," said another Hong Kong moviegoer.
Ne Zha 2 grossed 774,000 U.S. dollars on its first day of release, topping Hong Kong's daily box office chart.
For many moviegoers, the viewing experience left them eager to learn more about the story behind the movie and even visit the locations depicted in it. Travel agencies are glad to help, going as far as to set up booths in cinemas.
"So far, we have about 300 to 400 customers inquiring about these kinds of tours. So we're hoping this pop up can draw more customers to come, know more about it and come visit these Chinese places, promote China travels," said Nelson Leung, a tour escort for China Travel Service.
"I just asked some information about the travel plan there, and I think that this is definitely related to this movie, because I watched this movie, and I think I'm interested in this," said Steven Choi, a moviegoer from the United States.
In Macao, folk religion has long revered Ne Zha as a deity that can ensure good health. These beliefs were inscribed as part of China's national intangible cultural heritage in 2014.
"The story of Ne Zha also has deep roots in Macao, so I feel very close to it. This movie also fully reflects our Chinese culture. Its innovative narrative approach revitalizes the vitality of traditional Chinese culture," said a moviegoer from Macao.
A sequel to the 2019 hit "Ne Zha 1," "Ne Zha 2" builds on the beloved Chinese mythology surrounding the character and has been celebrated as a milestone for Chinese animation.
Ticket platform tallies indicated that as of Feb. 22, the film has grossed over 13 billion yuan (about 1.8 billion U.S. dollars) at the box office, ranking the eighth in global box office history.
Ne Zha 2 was jointly distributed in Hong Kong and Macao by Mandarin Motion Pictures Ltd., Intercontinental Film Distributors (H.K.), the Sil-Metropole Organization, and Emperor Motion Pictures.
Audiences rejoice as "Ne Zha 2" hits Hong Kong, Macao screens
