“Ne Zha 2” Makes History as the Highest-Earning Animated Film

Lesson made on February 20, 2025

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Reading Lesson:

A Chinese animated movie called “Ne Zha 2” has become a huge success, breaking multiple records. It is the highest-earning non-English movie of all time and the most-watched movie in China’s history. It has also become the highest-earning animated movie in the world, even beating Hollywood movies.

The movie was released on January 29 during the Chinese New Year holiday and quickly became a huge success. People lined up to see it, and in some places, theaters had to add extra showings because tickets sold out so fast. It is an important milestone for China because it shows that its culture is becoming more powerful and it can compete with Hollywood movies.

The movie is based on Chinese mythology and tells the story of Ne Zha, a rebellious boy with special powers. It is a sequel to the 2019 movie and it continues the story of Ne Zha and Ao Bing as they face new challenges when a powerful enemy threatens their world. They must work together, fight monsters, and discover hidden secrets. The movie mixes action, humor, and emotion, making it a favorite among audiences.

Many people in China are proud of the movie because it was made entirely in the country and shows Chinese culture in a fresh, exciting way. The movie may help introduce Chinese mythology to audiences around the world.

Comprehension Questions:

1. Which statement about “Ne Zha 2” is false?

a) It is the highest-earning non-English movie.
b) It is the highest-earning animated movie in the world.
c) It is the most-watched movie in China’s history.
d) It is the most-watched movie in the world.

2. The success of the movie is an important milestone for China. What’s another word for “milestone”?

a) Challenge
b) Problem
c) Weakness
d) Achievement

3. How did audiences respond to “Ne Zha 2”?

a) They ignored it completely.
b) They were disappointed and left the theaters.
c) They were excited and bought tickets quickly.
d) They preferred watching movies at home.

4. Why is “Ne Zha 2” so important for China?

a) It is the first animated movie ever made in China.
b) It is the most expensive movie ever made.
c) It is a famous American movie about Chinese mythology.
d) It shows that China can compete with Hollywood and share its culture globally.

5. What might be a reason for the movie’s success during the Chinese New Year?

a) People are busy with work.
b) Many families go to the movies together during holidays.
c) The movie was not well advertised.
d) People prefer watching Hollywood movies.

6. Who is Ne Zha?

a) A villain who wants to destroy the world.
b) A powerful boy with special abilities.
c) A regular boy without any powers.
d) A famous Chinese director.

7. “Ne Zha 2” is a sequel to the 2019 movie. What does “sequel” mean?

a) A movie that uses animation and special effects.
b) A movie that is based on a true story.
c) A movie that tells a story that comes before a previous movie.
d) A movie that continues the story of a previous movie.

8. What is one reason many people in China feel proud of “Ne Zha 2”?

a) It has many famous Hollywood actors.
b) It was the first animated movie ever made in China.
c) It was made entirely in China and shows Chinese culture.
d) Chinese factories are more efficient than American factories.

9. What does the article suggest about the global film industry?

a) Hollywood is the only successful film industry.
b) Animated movies are not very popular.
c) Only English-language movies can be successful.
d) Other countries are making successful movies that compete with Hollywood.

10. What is the main idea of the article?

a) Hollywood movies are losing popularity.
b) The success of the Chinese animated movie “Ne Zha 2”
c) Animated movies are better than other types of movies.
d) Chinese New Year is the best time to release movies.

Speaking and Writing Activities:

– Discuss these questions with a partner or a small group.

– Choose one topic and write a response to it. Show your writing to a classmate or teacher.

1. What makes a movie exciting and fun to watch? Do you prefer action, comedy, or drama?
   
   
2. Chinese mythology has many interesting stories. Talk about a myth or legend from your culture.
   
   
3. Are animated movies are just for kids, or can adults enjoy them too? Which ones did you enjoy?

More Reading Practice:

Other famous movies made in China

China has made many famous movies that people around the world enjoy. One well-known movie is “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” (2000). It is a martial arts film that tells the story of a stolen sword and the warriors who try to recover it. The movie is famous for its exciting fight scenes and beautiful landscapes. It also helped introduce Chinese martial arts films to a global audience.

Another important movie is “Hero” (2002), which is about an assassin who meets the emperor of China. As he tells his story, the movie shows stunning visuals and deep emotions. It explores themes of sacrifice, loyalty, and peace. The film became popular because of its artistic storytelling and impressive action scenes.

“The Wandering Earth” (2019) is one of China’s most successful science fiction movies. It is about a future where the Earth is in danger, and people must work together to save it. The movie is filled with thrilling moments and special effects, making it one of China’s biggest box office hits.

Another well-loved film is “Raise the Red Lantern” (1991), which takes place in the 1920s. It tells the story of a young woman who becomes the wife of a wealthy man and must follow strict traditions. The film is known for its powerful emotions and beautiful cinematography, showing the struggles of women in that time period.

Chinese cinema has produced many films with rich stories, artistic beauty, and exciting action. These movies help share Chinese culture and creativity with the world, making them important in the history of film.

What are the Top 5 most successful animated movies of all time?

As of February 2025, the five highest-earning animated films worldwide are:

1. “Ne Zha 2” (2025): $1.7 billion
2. “Inside Out 2” (2024): $1.69 billion
3. “The Lion King” (2019) $1.66 billion.
4. “Frozen II” (2023) $1.45 billion
5. “The Super Mario Bros. Movie” (2023): $1.36 billion
   
   

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