According to Sina, director Sui Cao's film has left Chinese theaters after four extensions. The animation set over 100 records, including highest-grossing film in Chinese box office history, most-watched film in Chinese history, highest-grossing animated film globally, and the only Asian film in the top 5 highest-grossing films worldwide.

In China, "Na Tra 2" is the first film to attract over 300 million viewers, meaning one in every five people saw the film.

Securities Times reports the film's success not only highlights the market's vast potential but also showcases the rise of Chinese animation in the global film industry. Director Zhang Yimou commented, "The sky is vast, the sea is wide, and the future is promising. Little Na Tra steps onto the world stage".

The film conveys the message of breaking down prejudices, emphasizing self-determination over external perceptions. Many viewers felt "Na Tra 2" exceeded their expectations of the legend of Na Tra's ocean adventure.

Director Sui Cao (real name Yang Yu) is currently in seclusion, focusing on creating the third installment, expected to take five years. In April, on CCTV, producer Wang Zhang Tian, Sui Cao's colleague, said the director is under immense pressure and has chosen to remain secluded until the new film is complete.

Sui Cao struggled for a long time, unemployed for years, only buying discounted food and rarely purchasing new clothes. After his father's passing, Sui Cao's mother lived on a monthly pension of over 1,000 CNY (approximately USD 140) but still encouraged her son to pursue his dream, believing he could make a living in the industry.

In 2008, he tasted success when his debut short animated film won over 30 awards. With the two "Na Tra" films, Sui Cao has surpassed established names to become the most successful Chinese director at the box office.

Nhu Anh (via Sina)