'Ne Zha 2' Becomes Highest-Grossing Animated Film of All Time

By Ned Kelly, February 20, 2025

It's official, Ne Zha 2 is now the highest-grossing animated film of all time.

The Chinese blockbuster has raked in RMB12.42 billion (USD1.72 billion) to date, surpassing Disney's Inside Out 2, the previous record holder, as well as the highest grossing of any film in 2024 when it took USD1.7 billion globally.

Ne Zha 2 adds the highest-grossing animated film title to a growing list of plaudits. It had already taken the record for...

The highest-grossing Chinese movie of all time (by a long way)
The highest-grossing film in a single territory (USD1.68 billion in China alone)
The first non-Hollywood film to hit USD1 billion worldwide.

And all this in just the three weeks since its Chinese New Year release date of January 29.

The movie has now extended its screenings on the Chinese mainland until March 30. According to China Film Network, the global box office is expected to exceed RMB20 billion (USD2.75 billion) by then, which would make it one of the top three grossing films of all time.

Loosely based on Chinese mythology and the classic novel Investiture of the Gods, Ne Zha 2 continues the story of Ne Zha, a young boy with supernatural powers who must battle the Dragon King of the Four Seas and his army of sea creatures.

The film’s blend of ancient mythological themes with cutting-edge animation has resonated deeply with audiences, making it a cultural touchstone.

Before you rush to grab your ticket in the Middle Kingdom though, a quick heads-up – Ne Zha 2 is currently only available in Mandarin in China, with not even a trace of English subtitles.

So, depending on your language level, you might want to 'home cinema' it instead!