Since its release, the animated film Ne Zha 2 has earned widespread acclaim and remarkable box office success. With its stunning visuals and meticulous production, it highlights the market potential of domestic animation. One contributor to the blockbuster's success is Suzhou Wenyao Animation Technology, a Zhangjiagang-based company.
The poster of Ne Zha 2. [Photo/WeChat account: meetzjg]
The company joined the Ne Zha 2 project in May 2024. "This was a top-tier production. Collaborating closely with director Jiaozi, we pushed creative boundaries to realize ideas previously thought impossible," said Hou Sichen, producer of Suzhou Wenyao Animation Technology.
The team's relentless pursuit of perfection was evident in their intricate attention to detail. For example, to achieve realistic fire effects, they precisely adjusted multiple fire layers—front, middle, and back—making hundreds of revisions to capture even subtle movements.
Their dedication paid off. As of Feb 10, Ne Zha 2 had grossed over 8 billion yuan ($1.09 billion), including presales, becoming the first Asian film to enter the global top 35 and securing a spot in the top 10 highest-grossing animated films worldwide.
Founded in 2022, Wenyao Animation has grown rapidly from a two-person startup to a full-service studio with 40 to 50 employees, now the only comprehensive animation company in Zhangjiagang. In addition to Ne Zha 2, the studio has contributed to productions such as Seer, Boonie Bears, White Snake: Afloat, and League of Legends.
As Ne Zha 2 continues to captivate global audiences, Wenyao's rising recognition signals a promising future for Zhangjiagang's animation industry.