Ne Zha II has already carved out its place in animation history—this year alone, it shattered records to become the highest-grossing animated film as well as the eighth-highest-grossing film, full stop, of all time. Its reputation now precedes it as a global phenomenon, and with that momentum, A24 is set to debut the film’s English-language release—featuring Academy Award winner Michelle Yeoh and anime favorite Aleks Le—in theaters and IMAX on August 22. But before the premiere, we’re unveiling exclusive background art that offers a glimpse into the film’s mythic, meticulously crafted world.
The first Ne Zha film, released in 2020, is a story that blends elements of Chinese mythology with Buddhist, Confucian, and Daoist influences. It follows Ne Zha (voiced by Crystal Lee), who is the reincarnation of an evil demon orb born to two human parents, Lady Yin (played by Michelle Yeoh) and Li Jing (portrayed by Vincent Rodriguez III).
In the first film, available to watch on Peacock, Ne Zha manages to overcome a prophecy that foretold his destruction of the world. His journey is aided by his nurturing parents, spiritual guidance from Master Taiyi (Rick Zieff), and his growing friendship with Ao Bing (voiced by Le), another child of prophecy tied to his own, who shares a dragon heritage that was once fated to be the cause of eternal enmity.
Ne Zha II sees the boys contend with the wrath of Ao Bing’s dragon father, Ao Guang (Christopher Swindle), his aunts and uncles, and his former teacher Shen Gongbao (Daniel Riordan). Meanwhile, Ne Zha is tasked with defending his hometown, Chentang Pass, while facing a series of heavenly trials full of mystical kung fu action and dazzling animation.
Keep an eye out for io9’s forthcoming review of the film. In the meantime, sit back, relax, and have a gander at some of the background art for Ne Zha II. And before you ask, this isn’t concept art; these are screenshots from the film. For those who want to enter the movie without spoilers, you may want to bookmark this page for later. Otherwise, check out how Beijing Enlight Media took to heart the concept of “every frame a painting” with a preview of some of the film’s lavish backdrops.
Ne Zha II background art preview
Main Hall of Yu Xu Palace © A24/Beijing Enlight Media
Void Rift Encircling Chentang Pass. © A24/Beijing Enlight Media
Star-Gazing Platform © A24/Beijing Enlight Media
Chaotic Battle at the Flying Heaven Waterfall © A24/Beijing Enlight Media
Furious Assault on Skull Mountain © A24/Beijing Enlight Media
Void Rift Encircling Chentang Pass © A24/Beijing Enlight Media
Farewell at the Chentang Pass Pier © A24/Beijing Enlight Media
Daoist Temples Along the Mid-Slopes of Kunlun Mountain © A24/Beijing Enlight Media
Tianyuan Cauldron Divides the Sea © A24/Beijing Enlight Media
Ne Zha II is set to release nationwide on August 22.
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