Nezha: Demon Child Is Back (2024)

Movie for kids

Don’t expect anything grandiose from this movie; it primarily focuses on the nuanced relationship between a father and his son. The narrative revolves around the father, a man who has prioritized his duties to others over the needs of his own family. However, he comes to a poignant realization: his family truly holds the most significant place in his life.

Interestingly, the role of the son is portrayed by a young girl, which raises questions about the casting choices. It’s unclear whether the production team struggled to find young male talent or if there was a misunderstanding in the translation of the script, leading to the confusion of the term “son” instead of “daughter.” The audience comments largely suggest that they expected the character to be a boy, indicating a mismatch in expectations.

While the performances are commendable, the film caters primarily to a family audience and may not captivate adult viewers. Its themes are deeply rooted in family dynamics, especially the aspects of filial obligation but also the father obligation and the redemptive journey of realizing the value of family relationships.

As an adult, I found the pacing dull and the plot predictable, but I believe the film serves as a valuable lesson for children and young teenagers. It effectively conveys the importance of family bonds, making it a thoughtful choice for young audiences to reflect upon the significance of prioritizing family in their lives.

My hypothesis is that the script was crafted as a form of propaganda aimed at teaching children an important lesson about gratitude and familial responsibility. In a cultural context like China, which still embraces strong paternalistic values, the narrative likely emphasizes that if a father is absent from home, it is not due to neglect but rather because he is toiling diligently to provide for his family’s wellbeing. This portrayal serves to instill a sense of appreciation in children, encouraging them to recognize the sacrifices their fathers make and to foster a mindset that values selflessness over selfish desires.

Yeah. Right…

Even though it may not be a cinematic masterpiece, the movie remains enjoyable..

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