Illustration: Liu Xiangya/GT

Chinese animation Ne Zha 2 has taken the global box office by storm. The highest-earning animated film in history, it has pulled in an incredible 14.59 billion yuan ($2.01 billion).

The film set a bold new standard for the industry. With his wind-fire wheels and fire-tipped spear, the legendary "demon child" Ne Zha didn't just blaze through the box office, he lit a spark in the hearts of Chinese animators. 

Building on this, Ne Zha 2 has shown the world that Chinese animation can shine at the top, weaving stories rooted in Chinese identity. This is a proud milestone for Chinese animation and a giant leap toward sharing Chinese culture globally.

The triumph of Ne Zha 2 is no fluke. It weaves together cutting-edge animation technology, painstaking craftsmanship, and deep cultural roots to showcase Chinese animation's rising global influence. Ne Zha evolved from ancient myth into a modern icon, blending emotional depth with the timeless charm of Eastern aesthetics to present a story that has resonated across borders. This reflects the bold spirit of Chinese animators: forging a unique path, reimagining tradition for today's world, and touching hearts with distinctly Chinese narratives.

Animation thrives on love and the chasing of beauty has become a driving force for Chinese creators. Great content reigns supreme, blending emotional depth, cultural richness, and visual splendor. For over a century, Chinese animators have pushed artistic boundaries, mastering both traditional ink brushes and digital innovation. 

Classics like Baby Tadpoles Look for Their Mother, a tender tale of perseverance, and The Monkey King: Uproar in Heaven, with its vibrant artistry, set the stage for a national style. Both were produced by the Shanghai Animation Film Studio, which laid the groundwork for a distinctive Chinese animation style that integrates traditional art forms such as ink painting, paper cutting, and opera.

These treasures, decades old, still draw huge audiences when screened as many viewers are still impressed and inspired by the distinctive style and extraordinary artistic quality showcased by these early Chinese animated films. Modern success the Boonie Bears series has amassed 8.5 billion yuan in total earnings to date. These modern ones are built on this legacy, fusing technology and creativity seamlessly.

From Monkey King: Hero is Back to Black Myth: Wukong, and White Snake to Ne Zha 2, Chinese animators have smashed technical barriers with sheer determination. Even in an AI-driven age, love remains the pulse of animation - love for the craft, empathy for viewers, and a sense of mission. 

This "relentless" spirit is about chasing perfection and putting audiences first. As Ne Zha 2's director Yang Yu, known as Jiaozi, summed it up, "Releasing a sequel casually would betray our viewers." Fans' repeated viewings of Ne Zha 2 testify to its depth, with themes of family, friendship, and self-discovery striking a chord. "I am the master of my own destiny"- this bold declaration animates every character, each brimming with unique personality and dreams.

Aesthetic brilliance shines through in every detail: rich, multi-dimensional characters, intricate narratives, ink-washed digital visuals, and captivating soundscapes. Films like Into The Mortal World and Chang'an San Wan Li breathe new life into cultural tales with daring creativity. Chinese creators tap into the spiritual core of symbols like Mulan and the panda, grounding Ne Zha's modern cry, "I am the master of my own destiny," in authentic cultural resonance, quite different from some international takes.

International praise highlights Chinese animation's unique power. The game Black Myth: Wukong has enchanted global gamers with its Eastern aesthetics, exporting not just breathtaking visuals but ideals like "universal harmony under Heaven." In such a world, the people under Heaven are of one family, and everyone is equal, friendly and ready to help each other.

These modern spins on timeless tales are redefining global perceptions of Chinese creativity.

Today, Chinese animation stands at a starting point. The fire of young talent is merging with the wisdom of experienced artists, blending heritage and innovation. 

With love as our vessel and beauty as our sail, we chart the AI-driven future with artistic integrity, crafting a dazzling new chapter for Chinese animation on the world stage.

The article was compiled based on an interview with Ma Li, president of the China Animation Association. life@globaltimes.com.cn

Ma Li, president of the China Animation Association Photo: Courtesy of the China Animation Association