In a groundbreaking move that underscores the global rise of Chinese animation, A24 and CMC Pictures are teaming up to release an English-language version of Ne Zha 2, the record-breaking fantasy epic that has taken the world by storm. Academy Award winner Michelle Yeoh will lend her voice to the film, bringing even more star power to a project already brimming with cinematic spectacle.
The English dub of Ne Zha 2 is slated to hit theaters in the U.S., Canada, Australia, and New Zealand on August 22, with screenings in Imax, 3D, and other premium formats. Directed by Yang Yu, the film continues the mythic saga of the rebellious demigod Ne Zha—a boy born with immense powers feared by both gods and mortals—who must embrace his destiny when an ancient evil threatens to annihilate humanity.
Yeoh, whose role in the English version is still under wraps, expressed her excitement about joining the project:
“I’m honored to be part of Ne Zha 2, a landmark in Chinese animation and a powerful reminder of how universal our stories can be,” she said in a statement. “Sharing this with audiences in English is such a joy, and I can’t wait for everyone to experience the wonder, heart, spectacular artistry, and magic of this film on the big screen.”
Originally released in China on January 29, 2025, during the lucrative Lunar New Year window, Ne Zha 2 soared to box office dominance. It has since grossed over $2.2 billion globally, becoming the highest-grossing animated film of all time, the top non-English language film ever, and the fifth highest-grossing movie in any language. It even outpaced Star Wars: The Force Awakens as the highest-grossing film in a single territory within just 11 days of its release.
The film initially released in North America in its original Mandarin version, earning $20.8 million. A24 now hopes the English dub, bolstered by Yeoh’s star presence and a full-scale premium format rollout, will reach even greater heights.
The announcement comes amid a major rebound for the Chinese box office, which had a lackluster 2024. Ne Zha 2 alone has contributed to nearly half of China’s box office revenue in 2025, helping push the country’s year-to-date cumulative gross to $4.15 billion.
With Ne Zha 2, A24 is not just releasing an international blockbuster—it’s positioning Chinese animation as a formidable force in global cinema. And with Michelle Yeoh on board, the film is set to dazzle a whole new audience this summer.
