Ne Zha 2 Movie Review: Visual brilliance makes this tangled tale a riveting watch
Story: Left without physical bodies in the film's 2019 sequel, the souls of demon boy Ne Zha (Lü Yanting) and dragon prince Ao Bing (Han Mo) attain new forms in this chapter. However, after Ao Bing loses his in a battle, the two are forced to share a single body. To restore Ao Bing's physical form, they must undergo a three-round test set by the immortal Wuliang Xianweng (Deshun Wang) and earn a mystical potion.
Review: Loosely based on the 16th-century classic Investiture of the Gods, Ne Zha 2 takes Chinese mythology and animated adventure to an all-new level of spectacle. Director Jiaozi returns with a sequel with relentless action, intricate set pieces and character designs, and complexed characterisations served through a rich storyline.
The story picks up after the fire demon orb Ne Zha and the spirit pearl Ao Bing (the water dragon prince) were slain by a lightning and must now retrieve an elixir to revive a sacred lotus that can restore their bodies. Their guide is the immortal and delightfully quirky Taiyi Zhenren (voiced by Jiaming Zhang). However, Chentang Pass is attacked by the exiled dragon army, led by the vengeful leopard demon Shen Gongbao (Yang Wei).
From the ethereal Jade Yu Xu Palace of the immortals to the underworld brimming with molten lava, beasts like marmots and fire-breathing dragons, the production brings different worlds to life with stunning visual finesse, dazzling animation, and jaw-dropping world-building. Themes of power, revenge, friendship, and defiance of fate run deep. The narrative questions the very nature of good and evil—flipping power structures on their head. Gods are not always noble, demons not always cruel. However, the plot at times stretches thin under the weight of its many characters and tangents. The occasional toilet humour—farts, puke, and all—feels tonally off for a film steeped in myth and emotion.
What truly holds it all together is the electric dynamic between Ne Zha's chaotic fire and Ao Bing's composed calm. Their journey peaks in a riveting third act, where Ne Zha's fury clashes with the honour of exiled dragons. A tender moment between Ne Zha and his mother might just bring a tear to your eye.
Whether or not you've seen the first chapter or are familiar with Chinese folklore, Ne Zha 2 delivers. With spectacular VFX, immersive set design, thrilling action, and memorable character work, this mythological epic is a riveting watch—even when the story meanders.
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