Blockbuster makes creative waves

Pop Mart worked closely with the filmmakers to ensure authenticity. The figure of Nezha in a battle pose includes his signature raised eyebrow and mischievous smile, mirroring his rebellious personality. Another set has Nezha and Ao holding hands, recreating the dramatic moment they fight in fire.

More surprising figures included two chunks of lotus root powder glue with removable covers, a reference to the early scene in which the main characters are brought back to life by the magical powder.

Removing the outer cover reveals the new bodies of the two main characters and thanks to such creative designs, on-screen moments have been brought to life.

The project took a year and a half to complete, with nearly four months dedicated to refining the artwork to match the film's aesthetic, according to Liu Shuang, Pop Mart's public relations specialist.

Zeng Xin, deputy director of the department of audiovisual journalism and communication, Institute of Journalism and Communication at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, says: "The demand for Ne Zha 2 blind boxes series exceeds supply because the film brought in the depth of narrative, highlights in characters, and resonance of emotions."