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Khaleej Times

Chinese film 'Ne Zha 2' is a lesson in resilience and beautiful animation

There's just something about an underdog story that works. It'll always begin in cringe fashion, of course, seeing someone being bullied by the world. But seeing them rise above the criticism, finding that kernel of truth that steadies them and lets them take on the naysayers and win, that is worth the wait. Like in Ne Zha 2, a sequel to the 2019 movie Ne Zha that has been in the making for many years. In this chapter, demon orb reincarnate Nezha and his best friend, Ao Bing (spirit orb incarnate) are suffering the effects of their previous battle and trying to rebuild their bodies using the power of the sacred lotus. Of course, things go wrong and now Nezha 2.0 (Nezha's body, shared by his and Ao Bing's spirit) must embark on a mission to retrieve a potion that will give the spell a second chance. They have a seven-day deadline in which to win this drink. While they are away – and undergoing their own trials to get this potion – their home, Chengtang Pass, is being held hostage by Ao Bing's father. Who also happens to be the jailor of a purgatory holding three vicious dragons dying (and scheming) to get out. And, of course, there's an ancient evil that no one saw coming who will make its presence known. In true Shonen-style storytelling – think Naruto, Ichigo in Bleach – there's plenty of fighting, comic storytelling, and themes of friendship that overcomes all odds. Oh, and self-improvement; epigenetics always wins in this scenario. Ne Zha has been brought up with love, affection, and parents who believe in being morally right. So, no matter the obstacle he faces and what his knee-jerk reaction is as the demon orb (kill everyone), he will overcome his own baser instincts and be victorious. The movie is based on the ancient Chinese book The Investiture of the Gods, and has been animated in stunning style over a period of five years, according to the Shenzhen Government Online, by more than 4,000 dedicated animators who worked on 1,948 special effects shots. Some 138 Chinese animation companies worked on the project, and it shows. Even during the most terrifying of moments on the big screen, you can't ignore the beauty of the illustrations. There's also a moment of transformation, when Nezha absorbs a tonne of power – leading to a Dragon Ball Guku-like transformation, complete with long, floating hair. Be warned though, while there is some slapstick comedy and some heart-rending moments, there are also some instances of scatological humour – if you have a sensitive stomach, you may want to be prepared with a paper bag (you know, just in case). All-in-all though, the tale of grit and the power of family (and logic) is not just entertaining, it also asks you how you want to live your life and pushes the idea that while it may be tough to be true to yourself, it is the only way to be.