Michelle Yeoh Joins English Voice Cast of Chinese Animated Epic NE ZHA 2, the $2 Billion Box Office Hit
Michelle Yeoh is lending her voice to the English-language version of Ne Zha 2, the record-breaking Chinese animated blockbuster, and it’s hitting theaters in North America, Australia, and New Zealand on August 22, complete with IMAX, 3D, and other premium formats.
The film, directed by Yang Yu, shattered records earlier this year, becoming the first non-Hollywood movie to pass $2 billion globally in its original language.
It’s now the highest-grossing animated film of all time, the top non-English language film ever, and ranks as the fifth highest-grossing movie worldwide. No small feat for a sequel about a mythological troublemaker-turned-hero.
Ne Zha 2 follows a fierce and rebellious boy born with immense, chaotic power, so powerful, in fact, that even the gods fear him. As an ancient evil threatens to wipe out humanity, Ne Zha must confront his destiny and rise as the unlikely savior the world desperately needs.
Yeoh, coming off her Oscar-winning run and a string of high-profile projects, shared her enthusiasm about joining the cast:
“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,” said Yeoh.
“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.”
The English-language release is a collaboration between A24 and CMC Pictures, which boasts a global distribution network covering over 100 countries and 500 cities.
CMC has long been at the forefront of expanding Chinese cinema beyond its borders, previously backing titles like The Meg series and co-producing animated hits through its sister company Pearl Studio (Kung Fu Panda 3, Abominable, Over the Moon).
It’s pretty insane that this movie has exploded at the box office the way it has. I’m actually really excited about seeing it!