Distributor GKIDS (The Boy and the Heron, Mirai, Song of the Sea) announced today it acquired theatrical and home entertainment rights to the Chinese box-office sensation The Legend of Hei 2. The 2D-animated fantasy adventure hails from original creator MTJJ, with production by animation studio Hanmu Chunhua (HMCH).
GKIDS will release the pic in North American theaters on September 5, before rolling out to Japan, Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, Macau and South Korea.
The sequel continues the journey of the young Elfin hero Luo Xiaohei (Hei) as he faces new challenges in a story laced with themes of friendship and resilience. “The Legend of Hei is one of the best animation IPs in China, with influence that extends beyond domestic borders and is validated in international markets” stated Tong Zhilei, Chairman and President of COL Group, which acquired a 51% stake in HMCH in June 2023.
Upon its July 18 domestic release in China, The Legend of Hei 2 was met with rave audience reviews, currently holding the highest score among domestic Chinese theatrical releases in 2025 with a Douban rating of 8.7. As of August 4, the film has grossed over $49 million in its domestic release.
Synopsis: When an attack shatters the fragile peace between the spirit world and humanity, Hei teams up with Luye, the last disciple of his Shifu Wuxian, to expose a conspiracy that threatens both realms — and the bond they’ve sworn to protect.
“At its heart, The Legend of Hei 2 is about connection, resilience, and identity — themes that transcend borders,” said Wang Jingjing, VP of COL Group. “As one of China’s leading original IPs, we hope our collaboration with GKIDS in the North American market will allow more international audiences to discover and appreciate the world of Luo Xiaohei, and further contribute to the growing recognition of Chinese animation on the global stage.”
The Legend of Hei 2 is a follow up to the 2019 feature The Legend of Hei. Both the original feature and its sequel are derived from the animated series The Legend of Luo Xiaohei, which was created by HMCH in 2011. In 2019, The Legend of Hei was released as the first spin-off feature, debuting at the top of the opening weekend box-office in China, and grossing over $44.5 million.
“We’ve long been impressed with the world and characters that MTJJ has developed over the years,” said GKIDS VP of Distribution, Chance Huskey. “The Legend of Hei 2 delivers a dazzlingly animated action adventure with a strong emotional core that will resonate with audiences even if they are new to the franchise or Chinese animation more broadly.”
The deal was negotiated between Chance Huskey of GKIDS, and Vicky Ding of Blossoms Entertainment on behalf of COL Group.
Outside of North America, more international partnerships have been confirmed for The Legend of Hei 2. In Southeast Asia, Hong Kong, Macau and South Korea, deals have been finalized with Encore Films to ensure broad distribution coverage. The Southeast Asia release will start from August 28. In Japan, COL Group has partnered with Facewhite Pictures and Aniplex to amplify the film’s presence, with a theatrical release scheduled for November 7.
