Movie Review: Ne Zha 2
Movie Review: Ne Zha 2 – A Mythical Ride That Packs a Punch
Alright, let’s talk about Ne Zha 2, the 2025 Chinese animated sequel that’s been making waves since it dropped. If you thought the first Ne Zha was a wild ride, buckle up, because this one cranks everything up to eleven. It’s got heart, humor, jaw-dropping visuals, and a story that’ll keep you glued to your seat. As someone who’s been obsessed with animated epics lately, I went into this with high expectations, and let me tell you, it didn’t disappoint. Here’s my take on why Ne Zha 2 is a must-watch, written in a way that feels like we’re just chatting over coffee.
A Quick Recap: What’s Ne Zha 2 About?
If you haven’t seen the first Ne Zha (2019), no worries—I’ll keep this spoiler-light for the uninitiated. Ne Zha 2 picks up where the original left off, following our favorite gap-toothed demon kid, Ne Zha (voiced by Yanting Lü), and his dragon prince buddy, Ao Bing (voiced by Mo Han). The story dives deeper into their bond, which is equal parts chaotic and heartfelt, as they navigate a world of feuding dragons, gods, humans, and some seriously creepy ocean-dwelling monsters. The setting is Chentang Pass, where tensions are high after the events of the first film. Ne Zha’s on a mission to become an immortal to snag a magical elixir that’ll heal Ao Bing, who’s still recovering from the last movie’s epic showdown.
The plot is rooted in Chinese mythology, specifically The Investiture of the Gods, but don’t worry if you’re not a mythology buff. The movie does a great job of keeping things accessible with its mix of action, humor, and emotional beats. It’s about identity, friendship, and rebelling against the rules when they don’t make sense. Think of it as a coming-of-age story with fire-wielding demons and gravity-defying battles. The Good Stuff: Why Ne Zha 2 Rocks
- The Animation Is Next-Level Gorgeous
Let’s start with the visuals because, wow, they’re a feast for the eyes. Ne Zha 2 is a masterclass in animation. The oceanic battles are a standout—water crashes and swirls with such realistic physics that you’ll forget you’re watching a cartoon. The celestial realms? They shimmer like something out of a dream, with vibrant colors and intricate details that make every frame feel alive. Even the goofy creatures, like this beefy shark dude with a trident, move with a grace that’s both hilarious and awe-inspiring. The animators clearly had a blast pushing the boundaries. There’s this one scene where Ne Zha tears through the sky, leaving a trail of fire, and it’s so fluid and dynamic that I wanted to rewind and watch it again. Compared to the first film, the visuals feel bigger and bolder, but they never lose that playful, cartoonish charm that made the original so lovable.
- Ne Zha and Ao Bing Steal the Show
The heart of Ne Zha 2 is the relationship between Ne Zha and Ao Bing, and it’s pure gold. Ne Zha is still the same brash, immature kid who says things like, “Do immortals poop?” (Yes, the potty humor is back, and it’s gloriously absurd.) But beneath the antics, he’s a lonely kid who just wants to protect his friend. Ao Bing, on the other hand, is the cool-headed dragon prince, but you can feel his struggles bubbling under the surface. Their chemistry is electric—part bromance, part yin-and-yang balance, with a touch of tragedy that hits you right in the feels. The movie leans into their bond as two halves of the Chaos Pearl, which gives their relationship a mythical weight. But what makes it work is how human they feel. Whether they’re bickering or fighting side by side, you’re rooting for them every step of the way. The voice acting is spot-on, bringing out their personalities without ever feeling forced.
- Action That’ll Leave You Speechless
If you’re here for the action, Ne Zha 2 delivers in spades. The fight scenes are a whirlwind of creativity—think dragons clashing, gods throwing lightning, and Ne Zha zipping around like a fiery pinball. What sets the action apart is how it’s tied to the characters’ emotions. Every punch and explosion feels like an extension of their struggles, not just eye candy. The animators use “cartoon physics” to make even the wildest moves feel believable, like Ne Zha flipping through the air or a massive sea monster thrashing with rage. One of my favorite moments is a mid-movie battle where Ne Zha and Ao Bing team up against a horde of enemies. The choreography is so tight, and the pacing is relentless. It’s the kind of scene that makes you want to cheer out loud.
- A Story with Heart and Depth At its core, Ne Zha 2 is about breaking free from expectations and finding your own path. Ne Zha’s journey to become an immortal isn’t just about power—it’s about proving he’s more than a “demon kid.” The movie tackles big themes like identity, rebellion, and what it means to be a hero, but it never feels preachy. Instead, it weaves these ideas into the characters’ choices and relationships. New characters, like the mysterious Sea Goddess, add layers of moral ambiguity. She’s not just a villain—she’s got her own motivations, which makes you question who’s really in the right. The story also throws in some clever twists that tie back to earlier scenes, keeping you on your toes. It’s not perfect—some subplots feel a bit rushed—but the emotional payoff is worth it.
The Not-So-Good Stuff: Where It Stumbles
No movie’s perfect, and Ne Zha 2 has a few hiccups. Some of the subplots, like the drama with Ne Zha’s parents, Lady Yin and Li Jing, don’t get enough screen time to fully land. They’re trying to keep the peace in Chentang Pass, but their story feels like it’s competing with the main action. I wished we’d gotten a bit more of their perspective to flesh things out. Also, while the humor is a blast for the most part, the potty jokes might not land for everyone. They’re funny in a juvenile way, but if you’re not into Ne Zha wondering about immortal bathroom habits, you might roll your eyes. Lastly, the plot can feel a tad familiar if you’ve seen the first film. It’s not a total retread, but it leans on similar themes of defying destiny, which might make it feel less fresh for some viewers.
Who’s This Movie For? Ne Zha 2 is a crowd-pleaser, but it’s got something for everyone. Kids will love the slapstick humor and colorful action, while adults will appreciate the deeper themes and emotional moments. That said, parents should know it’s got some mature content—there’s fighting, a bit of blood, and adult humor that might fly over younger kids’ heads. It’s subtitled-only for now, so if you’re watching with little ones, be ready to read along. I’d say it’s best for ages 10 and up, but check your kids’ comfort level with action-heavy films. If you’re a fan of Chinese mythology, animated epics, or just love a good story about underdogs, this is right up your alley. It’s also a great pick if you enjoyed the first Ne Zha or other mythology-inspired films like Monkey King: Hero Is Back.
Final Verdict: Is It Worth Your Time?
Absolutely, yes. Ne Zha 2 is a rare sequel that builds on the original without losing its charm. The animation is stunning, the characters are unforgettable, and the action is pure adrenaline. Sure, it’s got a few rough edges, but they don’t overshadow the fun. It’s the kind of movie that leaves you pumped for the inevitable Ne Zha 3 (yep, it’s already teased at the end).
So, grab some popcorn, settle in, and let Ne Zha 2 take you on a mythical adventure. Whether you’re watching in a packed theater or streaming at home, it’s a ride you won’t forget. 10/10 for effort, 9/10 for execution—definitely a must-see.