‘Ne Zha 2’ a visual, sensory feast meant to charm its devoted audience
Ne Zha, the Demon Orb and one half of the primordial Chaos Pearl in a scene in “Ne Zha 2.” Image: Encore Films
After becoming the highest-grossing animated film of all time and the first non-American, non-English language animated film to hold the title, “Ne Zha 2” lives up to the expectations and has charmed the worldwide audience with its immersive visuals that complements its action-packed sequences and creative storytelling.
Five years after the release of the first film, the sequel picks up after Ne Zha and Ao Bing have their bodies destroyed by celestial lightning, leaving them as only spirits. Master Taiyi, Ne Zha’s mentor, rebuilds the duo’s physical form using the Sacred Lotus, but as they recuperate, new challenges arise that threaten the peace of the realms.
Despite the Chinese myth that resonates with longtime fans, the narrative appeals globally with emotionally stirring exchanges between the characters yet well-timed humor that is elevated with the visual technique and music score.
READ: ‘Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba Infinity Castle’ sets Philippine release
Aside from its technical aspects, the story highlights the message of self-acceptance and the importance of familial bonds. Ne Zha, despite being born with a demonic personality, finds strength in his family to embrace his uniqueness and courage to fight the bad guys and save the humankind, which could stir an inspiration to the younger audience.
However, the film’s 2-hour runtime sometimes could feel a bit excessive even if the climatic scenes help keep the pacing in motion, there are moments where the story could have been trimmed down without losing its overall essence.
The ending also leaves the door open for another sequel, promising that the franchise is set up for bigger adventures which may excite fans but might also feel a bit dragging to those hoping for a now definitive conclusion.
Overall, “Ne Zha 2” is visually impressive and promises a good mixture of laughs and tears that will cater to children and kids at heart.
“Ne Zha 2” opens in Philippine cinemas on March 12.
