Are more Africans looking forward to visiting China through film?

A fascinating cultural exchange unfolds as Chinese cinema gains traction in South Africa.

While Ne Zha 2 has yet to reach South African screens, Creation of the Gods II: Demon Force is already making waves in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Durban.

Its epic storytelling and deep cultural roots have sparked curiosity about China’s mythology and history.

In China, Ne Zha 2 has been a box office sensation, grossing $2.07 billion and dominating February’s ticket sales.

This success highlights global audiences’ growing fascination with Chinese mythology, and South African cinema-goers are no exception.

Viewers have described Creation of the Gods II as “a journey into another world,” demonstrating how Chinese cinema is offering fresh narratives that resonate internationally.

The recent broadcast of CMG’s Spring Festival Gala has further fuelled interest in Chinese culture.

With more Chinese films gaining exposure in South Africa, they have become a hot topic among local film enthusiasts.

Beyond entertainment, these films are fostering a deeper cultural connection, inspiring more Africans to consider visiting China and experiencing its rich heritage firsthand.

As cinematic storytelling continues to bridge geographical and cultural divides, could this rising interest in Chinese mythology lead to more African travellers exploring China?

Zhao Yinan, the Chief Correspondent at CMG Africa Headquarters in Johannesburg, will provide further insights and on-the-ground reports, offering a closer look at this evolving cultural phenomenon.

IOL