'Ne Zha 2' hits China's Hong Kong and Macao as box office soars

The highly anticipated animated film "Ne Zha 2" was officially released in over 60 cinemas in China's Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions (SAR) on Saturday.

Jointly distributed by Mandarin Motion Pictures, Intercontinental Film Distributors, Sil-Metropole Organization and Emperor Motion Pictures, "Ne Zha 2" has broken records for the number of local distributors and daily screenings for a Chinese mainland film in the two SARs.

Jin Ling, an audience member in Hong Kong told China Media Group (CMG) that she intentionally brought her children to watch the movie as it contains many elements of traditional Chinese culture, as well as family values.

"After watching the movie, I really hope to bring my family and children to experience the scenery shown in the movie, and I also hope to taste the food. I hope that our Chinese culture ad Chinese elements can be seen by the world," she added.

Arne, a German audience member currently living in Hong Kong, called the movie "spectacular." He said he is so impressed and believes the visual effects of the film are not inferior to that of Hollywood animation.

After seeing the movie, Arne also said he would like to travel with his family to the places seen in the movie.

The premiere of the movie in the two SARs earlier this week already drew large crowds.

Since its Spring Festival debut in the Chinese mainland, the animation has earned widespread acclaim and achieved significant box office success, breaking multiple records in both Chinese and global film history.

The Chinese film has also hit overseas markets, including Australia, New Zealand and North America.

As of Saturday, "Ne Zha 2" had seen its box office revenue surpass 13 billion yuan (about $1.8 billion) worldwide, including presales, according to ticketing platforms.