Yu Yang's "NE ZHA 2"
Review by Dennis D. McDonald
I walked out of the theater somewhat dazzled by the experience of seeing Ne Zha 2. A young woman approached me and asked, “I couldn’t help noticing you were the only non-Chinese-looking person in the theater. What made you see this film? What did you think of it?”
I blinked, taking a moment to consider my response.
Okay, I’m an old white guy. Maybe it’s unusual for people in my demographic to check out films like this, but I couldn’t resist the opportunity to see it on the big screen with a decent sound system.
I’m not a complete stranger to Chinese films. There were a few moments during Ne Zha 2 when I had a hard time following who the bad guys were and who the good guys were. That was partly due to a fundamental plot device (i.e., whom can you really trust?) and partly because, well, perhaps in Chinese mythology, the distinction between good and evil isn’t always so clear-cut. I’m okay with that.
I’m a sucker for dragons. One of the things that drew me to this film was knowing that dragons play a major role. I’m also used to watching subtitled films (the version I saw was in Mandarin). Several times, the audience laughed at scenes I didn’t find particularly funny—again, maybe being the only "old white guy" in the audience played a role.
Anyway, I really enjoyed the film. The animation is spectacular. The action scenes are beautifully orchestrated and choreographed. Watching it on a big screen, given the phenomenal level of detail, is often thrilling. The emotional and family relationship elements are well integrated with the grandiose action on display.
If I have one criticism, it’s something I also noticed in White Snake II: sometimes the animation is so dazzling and extensive that it almost pulls you out of the story. More judicious editing might make the film even more engaging without losing its spectacle or emotional impact. But if you love gorgeous eye candy, definitely see this one on a big screen!
Review copyright 2025 by Dennis D. McDonald
