Illustration: Chen Xia/GT

For a long time,MKsport there has been a lingering concern in the West about the expanding influence of Chinese culture. Some even sensationalize this growth as a potential threat to Western civilization. The arrival of Ne Zhachallenges and disrupts such biased perceptions of Chinese culture.

In 2019, the animated film Ne Zhabecame a global cultural phenomenon. Four years later, its sequel, Ne Zha2, has again shattered records, grossing an astonishing 11.8 billion yuan (around $1.6 billion) as of Sunday evening and becoming the highest-grossing film ever in a single market. 

Unlike the West, whose cultural dominance was historically tied to colonial expansion and religious missions, China's path to cultural influence is fundamentally different. In today's high-tech era, films like Ne Zha2demonstrate how technology, storytelling and cultural heritage can converge to create a new cultural exchange model rooted in dialogue rather than domination.

Western audiences are no strangers to mythology-based storytelling. However, Chinese mythology remains relatively underexplored in the global entertainment landscape despite its rich history and universal themes. This is partly due to cultural and historical differences. 

Ne Zhafaced this challenge head-on by modernizing the character and emphasizing universal themes like individuality, family and self-determination. The film's protagonist, a mischievous yet lovable anti-hero, captured the imagination of younger audiences, while its high-quality animation and humor made it accessible to viewers unfamiliar with Chinese folklore. 

Ne Zha2builds on this foundation, combining cutting-edge animation with a more polished narrative structure. However, the overseas reception of both films also underscores the limitations of cultural translation. The story may feel distant or overly complex for Western viewers unfamiliar with this cultural context.

While Ne Zha2has been celebrated for its technical achievements and universal themes, it has been trying to break into mainstream Western audiences beyond Chinese communities. This highlights a key challenge for Chinese cultural exports: bridging the gap between deeply rooted cultural narratives and the expectations of global audiences. In the high-tech era, China has a unique opportunity to use technology as a bridge for cultural exchange. Blending cultural heritage with state-of-the-art technology creates a universal appeal that transcends language barriers.

Moreover, the rise of premium viewing experiences, such as IMAX and Dolby Cinema, has amplified the film's impact. Ne Zha2has drawn audiences for repeat viewings in high-end theaters, reminiscent of the global craze surrounding James Cameron's Avatar. The immersive sound and visuals enhance the storytelling and create a shared experience that resonates with audiences worldwide. 

The success of Ne Zhaand its sequel also reflects a growing cultural confidence in China's ability to tell its own stories. Hollywood dominated the Chinese box office for decades in the past, shaping how Chinese audiences viewed the world. However, China's rise is deeply intertwined with its cultural heritage. Without understanding Chinese culture, how can one truly grasp the global significance of China's emergence?

To truly connect with international audiences, Chinese filmmakers must find ways to make their stories more universally relatable without losing their cultural essence. 

In Ne Zha2, themes of rebellion against authority, the search for identity, and the power of friendship and family resonate with audiences across cultures. These themes have made Western franchises like Harry Potterand Star Warsglobal phenomena. By emphasizing these shared human experiences, Chinese films can invite global audiences into their cultural world rather than expecting them to fully understand it from the outset.

The world's perception of China's rise, especially among Western audiences, is often related to the education and public opinion they have received over a long period. Thanks to the development of high technology, Chinese filmmakers can present Chinese mythological stories from new perspectives, which will help global audiences see China from different viewpoints. 

Ne Zha2resonates with audiences worldwide, and the cultural impact it brings adds new vibrancy to this global melody. While challenges remain, Ne Zha2will prove that cultural exchange in the 21st century is not about imposing one's values but finding common ground through shared stories.