Aclaimed adult and family animation producer-distributor GKIDS announced today it has acquired the North American distribution rights for New Gods: Yang Jian, the latest feature from the powerhouse Chinese animation studio Light Chaser Animation.
Directed by Ji Zhao, who helmed Light Chaser’s White Snake and New Gods: Nezha Reborn, Yang Jian is the second installment of the studio’s “New Gods” series of animated action-fantasy epics inspired by Chinese mythological figures, following 2021’s Nezha Reborn.
Domestically released on August 19, New Gods: Yang Jian was the top film at the mainland China box office, beating Minions: The Rise of Gru, and earning $19.8 million on its opening weekend. GKIDS will release the film theatrically in both original Mandarin language and an all-new English language dub early next year. GKIDS previously handled local distribution of Light Chaser’s 2019 feature White Snake.
“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,” said David Jesteadt, GKIDS’ President. “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.”
Synopsis: 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.
Featuring awe-inspiring action sequences set against breathtaking, wildly imaginative environments and 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.
The film was writte by Chuan Mu and produced by Xi Lu. The Mandarin version features the voices of Kai Wang, Guanlin Ji, Lihong Li and Lanling Li.
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