GKIDS Films Pick Up Chinese Feature 'New Gods: Yang Jian'
Chinese animation has had an incredible few years. Home grown hits like Ne-Zha have broken box-office records beating out competition from America and Japan. They haven't yet made a major splash internationally, but that could well change in the near future.
GKIDS Films have announced their second Chinese CG-animated acquisition in the form of New Gods: Yang Jian. As with their first Chinese CGI pick-up White Snake, Yang Jiang is produced by Light Chaser Animation and directed by Ji Zhao.
The film is the second instalment in Light Chaser's New Gods series which reimagines key figures from Chinese mythology. It follows up New Gods: Nezha Reborn, which is available streaming on Netflix.
"Light Chaser Animation is one of the most exciting CG studios working today, and we are thrilled to continue our relationship on their newest film New Gods: Yang Jian," David Jesteadt, GKIDS’ President said. "The film drips with style, bringing a unique and action-packed spin on a classic Chinese story. We can’t wait to share it with American audiences early next year."
Yang Jian was released in China on August 19. It shot to the top of the box office, beating out high profile competition from Minions: The Rise Of Gru and earning $19.8 million in its opening weekend.
Thirteen years after Yang Jian (known to some as Erlang Shen) imprisoned his sister beneath a mountain, the once powerful god now scrapes by as a penniless bounty hunter. When a mysterious woman hires him for a new job, Yang Jian soon finds himself chasing down a familiar figure. He must stop Chenxiang, his long-lost nephew, who is in search of the magical lotus lantern that will free his mother, even if it will bring catastrophe. As Yang Jian confronts the actions of his past, he must face a host of dangerous vigilantes seeking the same treasure with the power to alter the balance of their worlds.
This latest entry in the New Gods universe from Light Chaser Animation (White Snake, New Gods: Nezha Reborn) features awe-inspiring action sequences set against breathtaking and wildly imaginative environments. Combining ancient lore with dazzling animation, New Gods: Yang Jian is a timeless adventure of epic proportions featuring one of China’s legendary mythic figures.
