International kung fu star Donnie Yen, currently in Beijing with another identity — a national political advisor — said he is inspired by the animated juggernaut "Ne Zha 2" and hopes Chinese filmmakers can deliver more great Chinese content to the world.

Donnie Yen, international kung fu star and a member of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), speaks to reporters before the opening of the CPPCC session at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, March 4, 2025. [Photo by Zhang Rui/China.org.cn]

"As a Chinese filmmaker, I'm proud of the achievements made by 'Ne Zha 2,'" Yen told China.org.cn before the opening of the third session of the 14th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) at the Great Hall of the People on March 4.

"Ne Zha 2" has shattered box office records since premiering during the Spring Festival, emerging as a cultural phenomenon both in China and internationally. It has grossed over 14.5 billion yuan ($2 billion) worldwide, making it the highest-grossing animated film of all time, the seventh highest-grossing film in global history and the highest-grossing Chinese film ever.

"I think it's truly remarkable and inspiring," said Yen, adding that he recently brought his entire family to see the film and was captivated by its world-class production quality, which resonates with audiences of all backgrounds. "Over the last few decades, Chinese movies have not only influenced how films are made but have also gained a larger market share, competing with some of the biggest Hollywood studios."

He described the film's success as deeply motivating for his own work, expressing his commitment to using his platform to continue creating films that spread positivity and cultural understanding. He stated, "In films, you can bring in so many great elements, letting audiences see our beautiful country and our beautiful culture."

The filmmaker stressed that China has many fascinating aspects to share with the world and hopes more films of different genres will showcase them. However, he noted that the key to Chinese culture going global lies in connecting and resonating with people. "Most importantly, it's about whether the stories can be down-to-earth and touch people's hearts," he said.

Yen hopes Hong Kong filmmakers can exchange more with and learn from mainland filmmakers. He also urged filmmakers to reassess their approaches to storytelling, content development and marketing strategies, while studying the factors behind the unprecedented success of "Ne Zha 2." He said he has absolute confidence in Hong Kong's film industry, particularly with the backing of the expansive mainland cinema market.

Yen holds a positive attitude toward artificial intelligence, hoping to leverage its power and other cutting-edge technologies to assist in film creation. He emphasized that, from the perspective of historical development, technology inevitably undergoes gradual evolution. "While AI brings challenges to the film industry, it also serves as an encouragement, as challenges drive progress," he said. "We must learn from AI and not fear it."

Renowned for his "Ip Man" kung fu movie franchise, Yen reflected on how such productions have significantly increased global interest in Chinese martial arts. "I do hope Chinese martial arts can successfully apply for UNESCO heritage status. That's part of my job to push for it."