Asia’s Animation Revolution Drives Upbeat Outlook

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In recent times, the Asian animation industry has seen substantial growth and is expected to play a crucial part in strengthening the entertainment sector in the upcoming years. Notably, Mainland China stands out due to the significant boost animation has received from the success of “Ne Zha 2”. This movie has earned over $2 billion, making it the highest-grossing animated film in history and the fifth-highest-grossing film overall.

‘Ne Zha’ is expected to be the top-performing animated film globally – it’s likely that we will witness an expanding influence for Chinese animations in the future, and it seems promising for substantial box office earnings. Catherine Ying, president of Pearl Studios, expressed this prediction during a discussion on the animation industry at Hong Kong FilMart.

The sequel to ‘Ne Zha,’ titled ‘Ne Zha 2,’ draws inspiration from one of China’s four famous classical novels, ‘Journey to the West.’ It’s common for Chinese animation studios to draw content from ancient texts. Pearl Studio is planning to debut ‘Eight Immortals’ in 2026, a production inspired by the Chinese myth about eight immortals with unique abilities. This tale appears in the 16th-century Chinese novel ‘Journey to the East,’ authored by Wu Yuantai.”

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“The animated sequel ‘Ne Zha 2’ is influenced by one of China’s four great classical novels, ‘Journey to the West.’ Chinese animation studios often look to ancient texts for fresh content. Pearl Studio is planning to unveil ‘Eight Immortals’ in 2026, a story based on the Chinese myth about eight immortals with special powers. This tale can be found in the 16th-century Chinese novel ‘Journey to the East,’ written by Wu Yuantai.”

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“Inspired by one of China’s four famous classical novels, ‘Journey to the West,’ ‘Ne Zha 2’ is a sequel that Chinese animation studios often create using ancient texts for new content. Pearl Studio plans to release ‘Eight Immortals’ in 2026, a story based on the Chinese myth about eight immortals with unique abilities. This tale can be found in Wu Yuantai’s 16th-century novel ‘Journey to the East.'”

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“The sequel to ‘Ne Zha,’ titled ‘Ne Zha 2,’ is based on one of China’s four great classical novels, ‘Journey to the West.’ Chinese animation studios frequently draw content from ancient texts. In 2026, Pearl Studio plans to introduce ‘Eight Immortals,’ a story about eight immortals with special powers that originates from a myth found in Wu Yuantai’s 16th-century novel ‘Journey to the East.’

Ying emphasized to the group that it’s crucial for the old manuscripts to be infused with modern aesthetic standards and narrative techniques in their adaptation.

According to Ying’s observations from practical experience, launching abroad isn’t a simple task. In foreign markets, it’s crucial to harmoniously blend contemporary concepts with traditional Chinese values for success. Chinese productions that thrive are deeply rooted in their cultural heritage.

Pearl, previously recognized as Oriental DreamWorks, is a partnership that was established by DreamWorks Animation’s founder, Jeffrey Katzenberg, alongside China Media Capital and Shanghai Media Group, back in the year 2012.

She mentioned that Chinese animators are enhancing their narrative skills, and the technical aspects of animation in China are on par with those in Hollywood.

Ying believes that animation can stand apart from ideological and political disputes, making it simpler for distribution overseas. As long as there’s a compelling story to share, animation is an easier product to market internationally.”

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Ying argues that animation can be free of ideological and political strife, facilitating its sale abroad. As long as we have a strong narrative, animation becomes simpler to promote on the global stage.

In 2023, the Japanese animation industry, leading its region, raked in approximately 1.72 trillion yen ($11.5 billion) from international sales.

Francesco Prandoni, head of the global licensing team at Production I.G in Tokyo, noted that a key factor contributing to the industry’s success is its strong presence among the younger generation.

Prandoni stated that Japanese animation stands as a unique category, catering to its distinct audience. Unlike many others, Japan has not embraced CGI (computer-generated imagery). Instead, they remain akin to the Galapagos Islands in the realm of animation, where traditional tools such as paper and pencils continue to rule.

Mia Angelia Santosa, head of Visinema Group, revealed that the Indonesian animation “Jumbo” will hit cinemas in two weeks’ time, following five years of production. She expressed high expectations for the film, which is directed by Ryan Adriandhy and features Prince Poetiray as Don, a character who endeavors to put on a play during a local talent show.

The demand for animation content in Southeast Asia has significantly increased over the last few years, mainly due to the rise of streaming services. Notably, local studios in Indonesia and other regions within Southeast Asia are experiencing a surge in benefits from this growing demand because they can produce high-quality products at significantly lower labor costs compared to countries such as Japan and South Korea.

She mentioned that the sector delivers top-notch output, yet it lags behind some regional competitors such as Japan and China.

Santosa mentioned that changes in Indonesia progress gradually yet steadily. Notably, our current content is primarily exported; therefore, this animation marks a unique occasion to honor Indonesian ethos and Asian values.

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2025-03-20 10:48