Netflix has released a series of films under Light Chaser Animation Studios, many of which appeal to Chinese folklore. Although at first glance many might skip this film due to not being familiar with this legend, let me give some reasons why it is worth watching regardless. And don’t worry I will not be going into any spoilers!

Main Plot

First, let’s start off with the main plot. This is usually where I would link to the trailer so you can have a preview of the film. HOWEVER, I think it’s actually better if you knew less about the film, because the trailer does spoil some moments of the film that I found were better when I didn’t know what was going to happen next. But if you’re still curious and don’t mind that, here’s the link to it: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xdOgym7MLAU

In recent years, China has released many animated films that you’ve probably heard of, such as White Snake, Green Snake, Jiang Ziya, or even Ne Zha too. 

All of these films are under the Light Chaser Animation Studios based in Beijing, so each of their films are heavily centered on ancient Chinese mythology and folklore. But if you have watched any of the other three previously named films, then you and I can probably agree that they were just “average” storytelling wise. While the animation itself was gorgeous, with an empty plot, those films only continue to increase the number of lackluster animated films that have been released this decade. But Ne Zha was surprisingly the only film from the studio that I believe could compete with some of Pixar’s and Dreamworks’ recent works. Which is an incredible compliment to even compare to those films in the first place. Ne Zha was successful in all aspects it tried to accomplish, whether that was in gorgeous animation, epic fight sequences, perfectly delivered voice acting truly some of the best storytelling I’ve watched in recent times. 

Albeit, Light Chaser Studios has created numerous other mediocre films, but please give Nezha a chance. Personally, I had low expectations coming into this film, but upon watching Ne Zha, it completely blew away my expectations. I never thought a film that was released in 2019 could have the same emotional upbeats of a Pixar classic or the humor and a fun cast of characters of a Dreamworks franchize. But it does…

Some Background

While I do think that it is best to go into this film knowing nothing, I will provide some backstory that I find necessary to the main character. To begin, Nezha is a famous deity in Chinese mythology, who was born as a three-year old boy. From here, his superhuman strength and incredible powers have been used for evil. So, in order to prevent Nezha from completely destroying the Earth, he had to be contained by a golden ring around his neck. However, this is where the myth and the plot of the film diverge. But nonetheless, the film does an amazing job for viewers of all backgrounds who just want to have a good time. 

Also, many might already recognize the name Nezha if you are familiar with the story Journey to the West, alongside one the most iconic characters in East Asian media, the Monkey King or Sun Wukong.

More About the Show

If you’re interested in a fun, action packed, story filled with fantasy and thrill filled with beautiful animation sequences and epic fight scenes, then this is the movie for you. Not only is this film genuinely hilarious (although there are some immature jokes, but can be easily overlooked) it is a groundbreaking story on Chinese culture and provides insight into a film that wants to share its cultures with the world. 

Thank you so much for reading! Comment down below if you have watched the film and what are your thoughts!