Common Sense Media Review
By Jennifer Green
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Lots of fantasy violence in animation based on Chinese myth.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 11+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Ne Zha
What's the Story?
Marked with a scarlet symbol on his forehead, NE ZHA (voiced by Yanting Lü) is born under a divine prophecy that he'll bring destruction to the world and then die on his third birthday. But, despite the curse, his parents love him unconditionally and will do anything to protect their son (who looks and acts older than his tender years) from his fate and nature. He also needs protecting from scared, distrusting villagers, as well as battling guardians whose immortality depends on the success or failure of the "evil" Ne Zha. The story is inspired by Chinese mythology and based somewhat on the book The Investiture of the Gods.
Is It Any Good?
This animated fantasy was a huge box office hit in its native China, and its empowering messages and stunning visuals will make it an engaging watch for fans of the genre. That said, the storyline could be initially confusing to audiences with no connection to the Chinese legend of the powerful but cursed boy (though he's a very familiar figure in China, with this film serving as an origin story), and the endless action and violence might prove tedious for parents or more critical viewers.
But there are some very positive lessons here about fitting in, learning self-control, and believing in yourself and your family despite others' preconceived notions, prejudices, or bullying. There's also quite a bit of humor in some of the exaggerated characters and sillier sequences, as well as pathos in Ne Zha's relationships and his attempts to control his demon nature. And the animation is dazzling, particularly scenes involving a painted landscape that characters can escape only by painting their way out.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the action and violence in Ne Zha. How does it compare to that of other animated movies you've seen? What about live-action ones? Does all movie violence have the same impact?
How does the ancient Chinese myth of Ne Zha compare to its retelling in this film and/or other adaptations of it? Do you need to be familiar with the myth to appreciate or understand this film?
Does the animation in Ne Zha remind you of any other movies you've watched? How so?
How do the characters demonstrate the value of perseverance and self-control? Why are those important character strengths?
Talk about the concepts of yin and yang in Chinese philosophy and how they play into the story of Ne Zha.
Movie Details
- In theaters : August 29, 2019
- On DVD or streaming : March 3, 2020
- Cast : Yanting Lu , Joseph , Mo Han
- Director : Yu Yang (as Jiaozi)
- Inclusion Information : Asian Movie Director(s) , Chinese Movie Director(s) , Asian Movie Writer(s) , Chinese Movie Writer(s)
- Studio : Well Go USA Entertainment
- Genre : Family and Kids
- Topics : Fantasy ( Magic ) , Adventures , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Perseverance , Self-control
- Run time : 110 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : February 25, 2026
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