“Ne Zha 2” to hit Pakistani cinemas, marking new era of Pak-China cultural and cinematic exchange

A significant milestone in cultural and cinematic exchange has been achieved as HKC Entertainment, in collaboration with Mandviwalla Entertainment, prepares to release the Chinese animated sensation ‘Ne Zha 2’ across Pakistan on October 31.

This release marks a historic moment, as Ne Zha 2 is the first Chinese film to be imported and distributed in Pakistan in recent years, signaling a renewed era of cross-border cinematic collaboration.

Ne Zha 2 has already shattered records, becoming the world’s highest-grossing animated film of all time; the highest-grossing film globally and China’s top- grossing film ever, with an astounding US$2.2 billion in worldwide earnings.

The nationwide release in Pakistan will give local audiences the opportunity to experience this visually spectacular and emotionally powerful masterpiece on the big screen.

The special premiere occasion was graced by the presence of Counsellor Shi Yuanqiang, a profound honour underscoring the diplomatic and cultural importance of this event.

‘Ne Zha 2’ is set for release throughout the cinemas of Pakistan on October 31. To cater to all audiences, the film will be shown in two versions: the original Chinese version with English Subtitles and a specially produced Dubbed Urdu version.

Announcing the release, Joyce Lee, Managing Director of Encore Films, shared: “Ne Zha 2 is a milestone film that has broken records across Asia. We’re thrilled to partner with HKC Entertainment and Mandviwalla Entertainment to bring this magical masterpiece to Pakistan. We look forward to sharing the incredible story of Ne Zha 2 with audiences here, alongside our valued cinema partners.

Attending the premiere, Minister Counsellor Charge d’Affaires, Shi Yuanqiang, remarked on the deep Ees between the nations: “The release of a cultural landmark like ‘Ne Zha 2’ in Pakistan strengthens our friendship beyond trade and development. It is a vital cultural bridge, allowing the people of Pakistan to experience the best of modern Chinese cinema. We celebrate this moment as another shining example of the Pakistan-China Ironclad Friendship.”

Senator Saleem Mandviwalla, on the occasion, highlighted the political significance of the event: “The release of Ne Zha 2 is more than just a cinematic event; it is a cultural and political reflection of the deep, unbreakable bond between Pakistan and China.

Our leadership, particularly President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, consistently champions this ‘Iron Brother’ friendship.

This film exchange- bringing China’s biggest film here while simultaneously preparing for The Legend of Maula Jatt to debut there-proves that our ironclad friendship extends vibrantly into the world of arts and media.”

Sardar Yasir Illyas, Advisor and National Coordinator to the PM on Tourism, commenting on the broader impact of this exchange, stated: “This event is a true game-changer for regional cinema. We are witnessing an unprecedented two-way flow: the arrival of China’s record-breaking animated feature here, and the parallel preparation for Pakistan’s own blockbuster, The Legend of Maula Jat, to enter the Chinese market. This is a powerful step forward for the global recognition of Pakistani film-making.”

This exciting import is further contextualized by an equally pertinent development: Pakistan’s biggest blockbuster of 2022, The Legend of Maula Jat is also scheduled for release in China in November or December this year. This is a landmark achievement, as it is the first time a Pakistani film has been granted permission by China Film Group under the quota system and will be released on a revenue-sharing basis, opening the door to one of the world’s largest film markets for Pakistani cinema.