The Chinese animated film Ne Zha 2 has surpassed Inside Out 2 (2024) to become the highest-grossing animated film of all time globally. As a rarely-seen blockbuster, its sophisticate character design and breathtaking scenes have stirred a heated discussions among audiences.

While the end credits, in which a list of 138 animation companies were included, were deemed by many as an assembly of the cream of the crop.

Guangzhou Didi Network Technology Co., Ltd. was among the production lineup to give full play to the creation of several characters in the movie, including the dragon kings, the marmots and Shiji Niang Niang (Goddess of Stone Pier).

"Back in March 2022, my company was recommended by a friend to the production team of Ne Zha 2," said Ma Xun, the person in charge of Didi. A total of 14 designers participated in the movie production, which spanned almost a year, according to Ma.

Meanwhile, the company took part in the scene design of Chentang Pass (陳塘關(guān)), the place where Ne Zha was born, adding abundant details for the visual effect of the movie.

Didi also shared some difficult problems behind the scenes. For example, the design of the branches for the villain Wuliang Xianweng (無量仙翁) in his berserk state must be both complex and aesthetically pleasing, while also maintain a clear structure. Meanwhile, the patterns on Ao Qin's body serve as a dual test of the designer’s patience and creative skills.

The movie used the meme of a marmot screaming as well.

"As one of the future lands of Guangzhou, Nansha, where my team is located in, will undoubtedly attract more and more enterprises as well as industry talents," said Ma.

Photos & sources: 南沙投資, Nanfang Plus

Author: Liu Liu