Ne Zha

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A Chinese animated fantasy film reimagining the myth of Ne Zha, blending modern storytelling with classical folklore.

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IP Overview & Key Facts

IP Key Facts

Essential information and quick stats.

Full Name

Ne Zha

Also Known As

哪吒

Format

Animated Film

Release Year

2019

Current Status

Released

Country of Origin

China

Region

China

Publisher

Beijing Enlight

Original Work

Inspired by Investiture of the Gods (Fengshen Yanyi)

Genre

Fantasy, Mythology, Comedy, Adventure, Animation

Story, World & Core Themes

Explore the narrative, setting, and ideas that shape Ne Zha.

Story

High-level synopsis and narrative focus.

A young boy born with a cursed destiny, Ne Zha fights against the prejudice of his village and the inevitability of a lightning strike prophesied to destroy him. Instead of succumbing to his demonic origins, he chooses to blaze his own trail, proving that one's fate is determined by their choices, not their birth.

World

Setting, cultures, and distinctive elements.

Set in a mythical ancient China where gods and demons coexist. Key locations include the coastal fortress of Chentang Pass, the mystical Map of Mountains and Rivers, and the oppressive Dragon King's undersea palace.

Themes

Core ideas and recurring motifs.

Defying Destiny, Prejudice & Acceptance, Parental Love, Identity, Friendship vs. Duty

Cultural Impact Timeline

High-level milestones showing Ne Zha's global influence.

2019

Chinese theatrical release; box office phenomenon

2020

International marketing and extended reach

2021

Streaming and continued cultural impact

Awards

Accolades for animation quality and storytelling

Key Characters

Meet representative characters from Ne Zha.

Ne Zha

“Fate isn’t my master.”

A defiant boy born from the demon pearl who chooses his own path, challenging fate and prejudice with courage and humor.View Profile

Ao Bing

“Duty means little without mercy.”

Ice‑aligned dragon prince torn between duty and friendship; a rival who becomes a pivotal ally.View Profile

Li Jing

“He is my son.”

The strict but deeply loving commander of Chentang Pass who is willing to sacrifice his own life to save his son Ne Zha from the heavenly curse.View Profile

Taiyi Zhenren

Ne Zha's drunken, humorous, and kind-hearted mentor who speaks with a distinct dialect and guides Ne Zha on the path of good.View Profile

Shen Gongbao

“Balance is a story told by the powerful.”

A manipulative figure who stirs conflict behind the scenes, testing loyalties and pushing destinies off balance.View Profile

Explore all Ne Zha characters

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Ne Zha based on a real myth?▼

Yes, Ne Zha is a major deity in Chinese folk religion and a key character in the classic novel 'Investiture of the Gods' (Fengshen Yanyi). The film reimagines his origin story for a modern audience.

Why does Ne Zha look like a 'demon'?▼

In this adaptation, Ne Zha is accidentally reincarnated from the Demon Pearl instead of the Spirit Pearl, giving him his mischievous nature and dark eyeliner, which symbolizes his struggle against the prejudice of being labeled a monster.

Is there a sequel to Ne Zha?▼

Yes, 'Ne Zha 2' is in development. Additionally, 'Jiang Ziya' (2020) is part of the same cinematic universe, although it tells a separate story.

What is the message of the movie?▼

The core message is encapsulated in Ne Zha's famous line: 'My fate is up to me, not the heavens.' It emphasizes self-determination and breaking free from the labels society places on you.