GKIDS has acquired the North American distribution rights to the Chinese language field workplace hit, “The Legend of Hei 2.”
The movie is a follow-up to the 2019 function “The Legend of Hei.” Derived from the animated sequence of the identical identify, the movie continues Luo Xiaohei’s journey as he confronts a brand new disaster following an assault on a formidable guild, exploring themes of resilience and friendship.
The official logline reads: “When an assault shatters the delicate peace between the spirit world and humanity, Hei groups up with Luye, the final disciple of his Shifu Wuxian, to reveal a conspiracy that threatens each realms — and the bond they’ve sworn to guard.”
“We’ve lengthy been impressed with the world and characters that MTJJ has developed over time,” stated GKIDS VP of Distribution, Likelihood Huskey. “The Legend of Hei 2 delivers a dazzlingly animated motion journey with a powerful emotional core that may resonate with audiences even when they’re new to the franchise or Chinese language animation extra broadly.”
“At its coronary heart, ‘The Legend of Hei 2’ is about connection, resilience, and identification — themes that transcend borders,” stated Wang Jingjing, VP of COL Group. “As one in every of China’s main authentic IPs, we hope our collaboration with GKIDS within the North American market will enable extra worldwide audiences to find and admire the world of Luo Xiaohei, and additional contribute to the rising recognition of Chinese language animation on the worldwide stage.”
“The Legend of Luo Xiaohei” was created by Chinese language animation studio Hanmu Chunhua (HMCH) in 2011. On its launch, the animated function debuted on the prime of the opening weekend box-office in China, and grossed over $44.5 million.
In June 2023, COL Group strategically acquired a 51% stake in HMCH, marking a pivotal second within the animation sector. “‘The Legend of Hei’ is among the finest animation IPs in China, with affect that extends past home borders and is validated in worldwide markets,” said Tong Zhilei, Chairman and President of COL Group.
The deal was negotiated between Likelihood Huskey of GKIDS, and Vicky Ding of Blossoms Leisure on behalf of COL Group.
Exterior of North America, extra worldwide partnerships have been confirmed for “The Legend of Hei 2.” In Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, Macau and South Korea, offers have been finalized with Encore Movies to make sure broad distribution protection. The Southeast Asia launch will begin from August twenty eighth. In Japan, COL Group has partnered with Facewhite Photos and Aniplex to amplify the movie’s presence, with a theatrical launch scheduled for November seventh, 2025.
Watch the trailer beneath.
