Reference News Network, December 9 report (by Zhang Tianning) "Why did the highest box office of Zootopia 2 come from China instead of North America?" After an article was published on the American Park News website, it triggered widespread discussions among overseas netizens. Within five days after its release in late November, the film earned $272 million in China, far exceeding North America's $158 million during the same period.

The UK's The Guardian also noticed this phenomenon. The report pointed out that in the past, Hollywood regarded China as a key market to boost box office revenue, but in recent years, Chinese audiences have clearly favored domestic films. Therefore, the popularity of Zootopia 2 in China has surprised many observers.

So, what did it do right? In summary, there are no two reasons:

First, it mastered localization well, and the cultural proximity was fully achieved. Those who have seen the movie must have noticed that the original version's reindeer host became a cute giant panda in the Chinese version. Director Gerard Bush revealed at the Shanghai premiere of the film that there is a new key character in this film - Gary Snake, and the production team knew seven years ago that 2025 would be the Year of the Snake in China, so they decided to definitely release it this year.

Moreover, the Chinese title of the film was designed just right, using "Crazy" instead of the "Utopia" in the original English name, which reduced the sense of alienation caused by Western cultural concepts for Eastern audiences, while subtly aligning with the idealized nature of the film itself, making the cross-cultural meaning transmission smoother. Interestingly, even some foreign netizens couldn't help but praise: "I really like this translation!" "I wish the original English title could also use it!"

Second, the story of growth touched people's hearts, and it resonated strongly with all age groups. Foreign media analysis stated that Officer Judy's experience of leaving her hometown and succeeding in a big city coincided with the shared memories of several generations of Chinese people during the process of economic takeoff and urbanization. Ashley Dudalenoque, founder of Hong Kong Superlative Consulting, said: "This is undoubtedly Disney's most important movie in China this year. The themes of personal resilience and social harmony in the film resonated with Chinese audiences."

Whether it's Officer Judy, who strives to make a name for herself far away from home, or Gary Snake, who longs to be accepted and speaks for his group, or Nick the fox, who appears carefree but secretly carries responsibility and protection, you can always find your own reflection in "Animal City." Through the power of light and shadow in "Animal City," children see cute pets saving the world, young people see the perseverance of striving to leave home, and adults read about the wisdom of tolerance and coexistence.

From breaking box office records to receiving overwhelming praise, the success of Zootopia 2 is no coincidence. It proves that good cultural works naturally have a passport across borders - respecting the uniqueness of local culture, while firmly grasping the common emotional basis of humanity.

Whether it's Zootopia entering China, or works such as Black Myth: Wukong and Yan Yun Sixteen Sounds going global, those that are both acclaimed and popular can break through cultural barriers, building bridges between different hearts. When sincerity, courage, tolerance, and perseverance in stories become a universal language around the world, culture ceases to be a barrier, becoming a bond for mutual learning among civilizations, allowing people separated by mountains and seas to understand each other through the interweaving of light and shadow.

Original: toutiao.com/article/7582038247665041960/

Statement: This article represents the views of the author.