Chinese animation gains popularity among young audiences, thanks to record-breaking Ne Zha 2

BEIJING – Once deemed overshadowed by Japanese anime and American animation, Chinese animation is now experiencing a surge in popularity, especially among younger audiences.

With improved storytelling, advanced visual effects and a seamless integration of traditional Chinese culture, the industry is rapidly gaining recognition at home and abroad.

A recent survey conducted by China Youth Daily among 7,232 university students revealed that 40.6 per cent actively follow popular domestic animation films and series, while 30.4 per cent check for new releases on a weekly basis.

This growing interest is reflected in the success of major box-office hits, including the record-breaking sequel Ne Zha 2, which has grossed over US$2.1 billion (S$2.8 billion) in box-office revenue and stormed into the global box office top five, cementing Chinese animation’s place in the global animation industry.

Most respondents attribute this rise to the ability of Chinese animated works to blend traditional cultural elements with modern cinematic techniques, which 81.1 per cent of surveyed students identified as a key factor in their interest.

Nearly 45 per cent believed that the technology used in Chinese animation is on a par with international standards.

Recalling the release of Chang An (2023) and Deep Sea (2023), both widely acclaimed Chinese animated films,  Wuhan University student Huang Ziyi felt as if the poems from her textbooks had come to life.

“The adaptations based on history were well executed and felt authentic, bringing the audience closer to the stories.”

In recent years, driven by technological advancements and a focus on Chinese cultural storytelling, the quality of Chinese animation has improved significantly. According to the survey, 67.8 per cent of university students shared this view.

Jiangxi University of Technology student Chen Yanyu said: “For instance, Chang An used artificial intelligence (AI) to re-create the texture of Tang Dynasty architecture, providing a visual representation of poetic imagination. Meanwhile, Ne Zha 2 reinterpreted a classic myth through the lens of modern family dynamics, proving that technology should ultimately serve cultural expression.”

Ms Huang said: “I believe Chinese animation can carve out its own space in the industry.” She noted that while Japanese anime often focuses on youthful romance and American animation emphasises individual heroism, China has a vast pool of untapped storytelling potential.

“Whether it’s history or modern times, mythology or reality, Chinese culture offers an abundance of material. These elements naturally resonate with Chinese audiences worldwide, providing both creative inspiration and a ready market,” Ms Huang said. XINHUA