GKIDS Secures North American Distribution Rights to “The Legend of Hei 2

‘The Legend of Hei 2’ Lands in North America: GKIDS to Distribute Acclaimed Chinese Animation

LOS ANGELES, CA – GKIDS has secured the North american distribution rights to “The Legend of Hei 2,” the highly anticipated sequel to the celebrated Chinese animated feature, “The legend of Luo Xiaohei.” The film, a dazzling action-adventure with a strong emotional core, is poised to captivate audiences with its unique blend of fantasy, martial arts, and compelling characters.

“The Legend of Hei 2” continues the story of Hei, a mischievous spirit creature, and his human companion, Luye. Together, they must unravel a conspiracy threatening both the human and spirit realms, all while safeguarding the powerful bond they share. The original “The Legend of Luo Xiaohei” debuted in 2011 and quickly gained a dedicated following, culminating in a box office success of over $44.5 million in China.

This release marks a notable step for Chinese animation on the global stage. Wang Jingjing, VP of COL Group, emphasized the film’s universal themes: “At its heart, ‘The Legend of Hei 2’ is about connection, resilience, and identity – themes that transcend borders.”

The acquisition follows a strategic move by COL Group, who acquired a 51% stake in the animation studio hanmu Chunhua (HMCH) – the creators of “The Legend of Hei” – in June 2023. COL group Chairman and President, Tong Zhilei, hailed the IP as “one of the best animation IPs in China, with influence that extends beyond domestic borders.”

Expanding Global Reach

The North American distribution deal,negotiated by Chance Huskey of GKIDS and Vicky Ding of Blossoms Entertainment,is just one piece of a broader international expansion. “The Legend of Hei 2” is already slated for release in Southeast Asia starting August 28th, through a partnership with Encore Films. Japan will see a theatrical release on November 7th, 2025, thanks to a collaboration between COL Group, Facewhite Pictures, and Aniplex.

Why This Matters: The Rise of Chinese Animation

The success of “the Legend of Hei” franchise,and its increasing international distribution,highlights a growing trend: the rising prominence of Chinese animation. For years, Japanese anime has dominated the global market, but Chinese studios are rapidly gaining recognition for their innovative storytelling, stunning visuals, and unique cultural perspectives.

this isn’t simply about exporting entertainment; it’s about challenging established norms and diversifying the landscape of animated film.The investment by COL Group in HMCH signals a commitment to nurturing and promoting original Chinese IPs, paving the way for further growth and international collaboration.

GKIDS’ involvement is also crucial. Known for bringing critically acclaimed international animated films to North American audiences – including works by Studio Ghibli and Cartoon Saloon – GKIDS provides a platform for “The Legend of Hei 2” to reach a wider audience and establish a foothold in a competitive market.

Looking Ahead

“The Legend of Hei 2” promises to be more than just a sequel; it’s a potential gateway for audiences to discover the richness and creativity of Chinese animation. As the film prepares for its North American release, it carries with it the weight of expectation and the promise of a vibrant future for the industry.

[Embed YouTube Trailer here]

What is the origin of *The Legend of Hei* franchise?

GKIDS Brings “The Legend of Hei 2” to North American Audiences

GKIDS, the renowned distributor of critically acclaimed animated films, has secured the North American distribution rights to The Legend of Hei 2, the highly anticipated sequel to the beloved Chinese animated fantasy film. This acquisition marks a important win for animation fans across the continent, promising a theatrical release for this visually stunning and emotionally resonant story.

What is “The Legend of Hei”?

The Legend of Hei franchise is based on the popular Chinese manhua (comic) series Hei, created by Mortie. The first film, The Legend of Hei (2019), captivated audiences with its unique blend of action, adventure, and poignant storytelling, drawing inspiration from Chinese mythology and folklore.

Here’s a quick overview of the core elements that made the first film a success:

Stunning Visuals: The animation style is characterized by its vibrant colors, dynamic action sequences, and detailed character designs.

Compelling Narrative: The story centers around Hei, a young boy with a mysterious past and a powerful spiritual connection to the world around him.

Rich World-Building: The film immerses viewers in a fantastical world inspired by ancient Chinese culture, complete with unique creatures, traditions, and landscapes.

Details of the Distribution Deal

The proclamation, made on August 9, 2025, confirms that GKIDS will handle the theatrical release of the Legend of Hei 2 in North America. While a specific release date hasn’t been announced yet, animation enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting further details. GKIDS has a proven track record of successfully bringing international animated features to North American audiences, including works from Studio Ghibli, Cartoon Saloon, and others.

This partnership is especially exciting because:

Increased Accessibility: GKIDS’ distribution network ensures the film will reach a wider audience than it might have otherwise.

Theatrical Experience: A theatrical release allows fans to experience the film’s breathtaking visuals and immersive sound design on the big screen.

Potential for Home Video & Streaming: Following the theatrical run, GKIDS typically releases films on home video and makes them available on streaming platforms, further expanding their reach.

What to Expect from “The Legend of Hei 2”

While specific plot details are still under wraps,The Legend of Hei 2 is expected to continue Hei’s journey,delving deeper into his origins and the mysteries surrounding his powers. Early reports suggest the sequel will expand upon the world-building established in the first film, introducing new characters, creatures, and challenges.

Key areas fans are anticipating include:

Hei’s Character Advancement: Exploring Hei’s growth and understanding of his abilities.

Expansion of the Lore: Uncovering more about the history and mythology of the world.

Action-Packed Sequences: Delivering the dynamic and visually stunning action that fans loved in the first film.

GKIDS’ Track Record with Animated Films

GKIDS has become synonymous with quality animation distribution in North America. Their portfolio includes numerous award-winning and critically acclaimed films, demonstrating their commitment to bringing diverse and compelling stories to audiences. Some notable titles distributed by GKIDS include:

Mirai

Wolfwalkers

Ride Your Wave

Josee, the Tiger and the Fish

Another World (as noted on their website)

This consistent dedication to high-quality animation makes them the ideal partner for The Legend of Hei 2. Their expertise in marketing and distribution will undoubtedly contribute to the film’s success.

The Growing Popularity of Chinese Animation

The Legend of Hei 2‘s distribution by GKIDS highlights the increasing global recognition of Chinese animation. For years, japanese anime has dominated the international animation scene, but Chinese animation is rapidly gaining traction with its unique artistic styles and compelling narratives.

Factors contributing to this growth include:

Government Support: Increased investment in the animation industry by the Chinese government.

Technological Advancements: Improvements in animation technology and production techniques.

Rising International Collaboration: Partnerships between Chinese studios and international distributors like GKIDS.

Unique Cultural Perspective: Offering stories and themes rooted in Chinese culture and mythology.

where to Stay Updated

Keep an eye on the following resources for the latest news and updates on The Legend of Hei 2:

GKIDS Website: https://gkids.com/films-series/

Archyde.com: For ongoing coverage and analysis.

Social Media: Follow GKIDS and related accounts on platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

Animation News Websites: Stay tuned to animation-focused news sites for announcements regarding release dates and trailers.