The Chinese animated film "Na Tra: Legend of the Demon Child" left theaters on 30/6 with global earnings exceeding 2.2 billion USD, setting 113 records. These include highest-grossing film in Chinese box office history, most-watched film in Chinese history, highest-grossing animated film worldwide, and the only Asian film among the top 5 highest-grossing films globally.

The film propelled 45-year-old Sui Cao (real name Yang Yu) to become the most commercially successful Chinese director. According to Sina, he achieved this unprecedented feat with just one film. As director, screenwriter, and producer, Sui Cao is estimated to have earned 2 billion CNY (279 million USD).

Scene from "Na Tra 2" (also known as "Na Tra: Legend of the Demon Child"). Video: Mtime

Sui Cao's path to fame is considered inspirational by many. Born in Sichuan province, he entered the Yang Department of Sichuan University in 1999. During his third year, he discovered MAYA, a 3D animation and graphic design software, and taught himself how to use it. Sui Cao believes self-learning is key to achievement. It took him over a year to master the software. After graduating in 2003, he worked for an advertising company, earning enough for a stable life.

Sui Cao and the character Na Tra. Image: Trends

Sui Cao and the character Na Tra. Image: Trends

A few months later, Sui Cao wanted to quit, feeling, "If I don't make animation, I'll regret it my whole life." When he told his mother, she simply asked, "Have you thought it through?" He nodded, and she trusted his decision without further questions. Sui Cao's father, who worked at a hospital, passed away shortly after his graduation.

His retired mother received a monthly pension of 1,000 CNY (135 USD). 700 CNY of this went towards mortgage payments. According to Mtime, Sui Cao was unemployed for the next three and a half years, facing criticism for being "delusional, naive, and unrealistic."

He lived off his mother's pension, rarely buying new clothes. In his twenties, he didn't go out, believing travel was only for the wealthy. He spent most of his time in three places: the living room, bedroom, and bathroom.

To minimize expenses, Sui Cao stayed within a 40 km radius of his home for over three years. He also didn't date. "I admire myself," he said, "My appearance and other conditions weren't bad, but I endured not dating until I was 28." In an interview with Huzhou Media last February, Sui Cao said he believed solitude allows for contemplation, and hardship fosters maturity.

Director Sui Cao. Image: Sohu

Director Sui Cao. Image: Sohu

After nearly four years of hardship, Sui Cao released his first short film, "See Through" (2008), a 16-minute production. The film won numerous awards, bringing him recognition in the animation industry. In 2011, he co-founded a film production company.

In 2015, Sui Cao began working on "Na Tra: Birth of the Demon Child." Initially, the project wasn't well-received by investors, with dozens of large companies declining to collaborate. He had to divide the scenes among 20 small and medium-sized companies, later combining their work. The film dominated the Chinese box office in 2020, also releasing in North America and several Asian countries, grossing over 700 million USD.

Five years later, "Na Tra 2" premiered, conveying the message: defy prejudice, and define yourself, not by external perceptions. Many viewers felt "Na Tra 2" exceeded expectations for the legend of Na Tra's oceanic rebellion.

Sui Cao told Sohu that every work embodies the creator's emotions and thoughts. He grew up in a loving family, and his parents' encouragement and acceptance gave him the courage to pursue animation. His love for his family is reflected in both "Na Tra" films.

"Na Tra 2" animation, from initial sketches to on-screen effects. Video: Mtime

The director's strongest message is that Na Tra's mother never cared whether he became a demon or a deity. She simply wanted him to know her love was unconditional. This love transformed Na Tra, making him realize his identity was unimportant. He didn't need external validation, only to live authentically.

Sui Cao is currently in seclusion working on the third "Na Tra" installment, declining all event invitations and interviews. Last April, "Na Tra 2" won the Special Contribution Award at the Huabiao Awards, but Sui Cao didn't attend. Producer Wang Chang Tian accepted the award on his behalf, revealing that Sui Cao is under immense pressure. The team respects his need to focus on his creative process and supports his decision.

Wang Chang Tian read a letter from Sui Cao at the ceremony: "Thank you to the Huabiao Awards for bestowing such a great honor upon 'Na Tra.' Its success is entirely due to the audience's encouragement and acceptance. Our efforts are insufficient compared to their support. We will strive harder in the future, never forgetting our initial dream. Thank you for allowing me to immerse myself in my work, and I look forward to connecting with you through my films."

Nghinh Xuan