In a remarkable feat, Nezha 2 has surged to the top of the global box office, not only securing its position as the highest-grossing animated film worldwide but also joining the elite league of the 10 highest-grossing films in cinema history. While its captivating storyline and breathtaking visuals have enthralled audiences globally, the movie’s roots trace back to Chengdu, a dynamic city in southwestern China that is swiftly rising as a global hub for digital creativity and innovation.

The Charm of Chengdu: More Than Just Pandas
Most people associate Chengdu with its most famous resident, the giant panda, often seen in wildlife documentaries or zoos worldwide. However, the city offers much more than its iconic black-and-white ambassadors. Chengdu seamlessly blends ancient traditions with contemporary vibrancy, similar to how Tokyo and Paris harmonize history and modern art. Visitors can explore bustling ancient markets, serene temples, and state-of-the-art shopping districts, all within the city’s sprawling urban landscape.

Much like New York’s pizza or Mexico’s tacos, Chengdu’s spicy hotpot has captured the taste buds of food enthusiasts worldwide, earning a spot on the global culinary map. The city’s relaxed lifestyle and welcoming atmosphere create a fertile ground for creativity and entrepreneurship. Behind the massive success of Nezha 2 lies Chengdu’s thriving digital and tech industry, begging the question—why Chengdu?

A Thriving Ecosystem of Collaboration and Competition
Chengdu’s animation industry thrives on a highly collaborative yet competitive ecosystem, reminiscent of Hollywood’s seamless movie production model. Within a close-knit network, animation studios, special effects teams, and production companies work in harmony, bringing ideas to life with remarkable efficiency.

Nezha 2 was born out of this vibrant ecosystem. Cococartoon, the primary production company, is situated near Qnanimation Studio, which contributed to character design, and MOREVFX, a firm specializing in cutting-edge visual effects. This close collaboration is not an exception but the norm in Chengdu, where over 1,000 cultural and creative enterprises contribute to an annual output exceeding 39 billion USD, solidifying the city’s stature in China’s creative economy.

Policy Support: Fueling Innovation and Creative Risk-Taking
Creating a blockbuster like Nezha 2 is not an overnight achievement. The production of Nezha 1 took five years, and Nezha 2 took another five and a half years to perfect. Such extensive timelines require patience, financial support, and market tolerance. Chengdu’s supportive policies—such as rent reductions, project support, and startup guidance—provide the much-needed safety net for small and medium-sized enterprises, allowing them to pursue bold creative visions.

The local government’s comprehensive approach, including financial incentives and resource allocation, has been instrumental in positioning Chengdu as a global player in digital creativity. These strategic initiatives allow creative ventures to take calculated risks, resulting in groundbreaking innovations that resonate worldwide.

Chengdu’s Innovation Beyond Animation
While animation is Chengdu’s most visible success story, the city’s innovative spirit extends far beyond film. Chengdu is emerging as a powerhouse in AI, robotics, biotechnology, and quantum computing. Noteworthy achievements include China’s first quantum computing control system, the world’s first “seed bank” for drug screening, and advanced surgical robots, solidifying Chengdu’s position at the forefront of global technological advancements.

To fuel this rapid innovation, Chengdu has implemented a “sci-tech loan” system, offering startups the capital required to grow. Over 4,000 companies have benefited from this initiative, addressing one of the most significant challenges faced by emerging tech companies. The city’s commitment to nurturing innovation is evident, as it ranks 23rd globally in innovation, hosting 1.45 million high-tech enterprises, 19 companies listed on the Sci-Tech Innovation Board, and 9 unicorns.

Chengdu’s Global Vision: A City Poised for Greatness
Chengdu’s strategic vision extends beyond being a digital creative hub. The city is actively attracting international talent and fostering an environment that encourages groundbreaking ideas. Its cultural appeal, coupled with a robust economic ecosystem, is creating an ideal launchpad for the next animated blockbuster or technology unicorn.

As Chengdu continues to expand its influence on the global stage, it remains a city to watch in the coming years. Whether it’s creating the next cinematic sensation or pioneering world-changing technologies, Chengdu’s journey from a regional capital to a global innovation leader is just beginning.

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