ICS Analysis

The paper looks at two recently released fantasy films: Né Zhā (2019) and Né Zhā 2: The Demon Child Churns the Sea (2025) which have reached great success within China as well as internationally. The paper closely observes the main character Né Zhā as well as the circumstances of the film, uncovering the close connections between Né Zhā and the Chinese youth. As a result, the paper unveils the socio-political scenario in China, especially amidst Generation Z. Unlike Western articles which often adopt a West-centric approach, comparing the Né Zhā films to the recently released Captain America film and the impact that Né Zhā’s popularity may have on the American film industry, this paper seeks to delve into Chinese perspectives through a study of Chinese opinions on social media as well as in articles published on China-based websites. Through this study, the paper argues that the genre of fantasy, often overlooked as detached from reality, in fact allows for political dissent and expression. The fantasy genre’s capacity for socio-political representation in turn allows for the Né Zhā films to act as a powerful political text which can express the discontent of the Chinese people.