Journal of Chuxiong Normal University ›› 2026, Vol. 41 ›› Issue (2): 36-43.

• Chinese Culture Studies • Previous Articles     Next Articles

Visual Re-Presentation of China's Outstanding Traditional Culture in Film Ne Zha II: Mo Tong Nao Hai

Wang Jingyi, Zuo Wenjie   

  1. 1. College of Marxism, Yunnan Normal University, Kunming, Yunnan Province 650500, China;
    2. Institute of Eduction in Forging a Strong Consciousness of Community for the Chinese Nation, Yunnan University, Kunming, Yunnan Province 650500, China
  • Received:2025-11-17 Online:2026-03-20 Published:2026-04-29

Abstract: The animated film Ne Zha II: Mo Tong Nao Hai (The Devil Child Challengeing the Sea) has emerged as a cinematic phenomenon that systematically facilitates the visual re-presentation of China's outstanding traditional culture through a tripartite synergistic mechanism involving mythological reinvention, value reconstruction, and technological empowerment. At the level of mythological reinvention-presentation, the film innovates the archetypal character portrayal, scene construction, and key plotlines, transforming traditional virtues from China's outstanding traditional culture into the spiritual core of the protagonist's defiance against fate. In terms of value reconstruction, it anchors its narrative in the concept of “the isomorphism of family and state,” merging traditional ethical notions with contemporary value orientations through innovative audiovisual language. Regarding technological empowerment, the film pioneers new pathways for Eastern aesthetics in the digital age via visual presentation, auditory experience and behavioral symbolism, demonstrating the integrated coexistence of traditional culture and modern elements across multiple dimensions. Its success powerfully attests to the enduring vitality of traditional culture in the digital era. By deeply integrating technology, visual artistry and cultural essence, it not only revitalizes traditional storytelling but also provides an innovative model and referential value for the creative development of China's outstanding traditional culture.

Key words: Ne Zha II: Mo Tong Nao Hai, China's outstanding traditional culture, visual re-presentation, digital technology, community narrative

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