Chinese animation, or donghua, has been rapidly gaining attention on the international stage. Among the standout productions, the White Snake series holds a special place. The first movie, White Snake (2019), captivated audiences with its rich animation style, heartfelt romance, and reinterpretation of a classic Chinese folktale. Its sequel, White Snake 2: The Tribulation of the Green Snake (2021), shifts the spotlight to Xiao Qing, the younger sister, delivering a story that blends fantasy, mythology, and deep emotional undertones. This review takes a closer look at the movie’s plot, characters, animation, themes, and cultural significance.
Introduction to the Sequel
White Snake 2: The Tribulation of the Green Snake continues the story after the events of the first film. Unlike its predecessor, which focused primarily on the romance between Blanca (Bai Suzhen) and Ah Xuan, this sequel turns toward Xiao Qing’s perspective. It dives into her journey of resilience, survival, and self-discovery after the tragic imprisonment of her sister. This narrative shift allows viewers to explore new layers of the legend while also resonating with universal themes of loss, perseverance, and personal growth.
Plot Overview
The film opens with the aftermath of Bai Suzhen’s imprisonment under Leifeng Pagoda. Xiao Qing, devastated by her sister’s fate, vows to rescue her. However, her journey takes an unexpected turn when she is transported into a strange and dystopian dimension, often referred to as the “Asura Realm.” This surreal world is filled with chaos, hostility, and illusions that challenge not only her physical abilities but also her emotional strength.
Throughout the film, Xiao Qing encounters various characters—some allies, some foes. Among them is Fahai, the monk who plays a central role in the legend of the White Snake, as well as new entities unique to this reimagined narrative. As she navigates this treacherous realm, Xiao Qing confronts her inner struggles, her unresolved anger, and her longing for her sister. Her evolution from a vengeful spirit into a more self-aware and determined individual is one of the most powerful aspects of the film.
Character Development
Xiao Qing (Green Snake)
The heart of the film lies in Xiao Qing’s transformation. In the first movie, she was portrayed as loyal yet impulsive, often overshadowed by her elder sister. In White Snake 2, she steps into the spotlight, and the audience witnesses her vulnerability, frustration, and eventual maturity. Her resilience makes her a more complex and relatable protagonist.
Supporting Characters
Other characters enrich Xiao Qing’s journey. While some are drawn from classical legend, others are original creations that fit the film’s fantasy realm. These interactions help Xiao Qing confront her emotional scars and understand her role beyond being “the sister.” Each encounter pushes her toward self-discovery.
Animation and Visual Style
Visually, the film is breathtaking. The animators at Light Chaser Animation Studio once again deliver a masterpiece. The Asura Realm is particularly impressive—its distorted landscapes, vivid colors, and surreal designs effectively create a sense of unease and otherworldliness. Action sequences are fluid, dynamic, and visually captivating, rivaling international animated productions. The contrast between serene moments and intense battles also highlights the studio’s mastery in balancing tone and pacing.
The character designs remain faithful to the aesthetic introduced in the first film but are enhanced with subtle refinements. Facial expressions are detailed, allowing emotions to be conveyed with authenticity, which is crucial for a story so deeply rooted in personal struggle.
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Music and Sound Design
Music plays a crucial role in setting the emotional tone. The soundtrack blends traditional Chinese instruments with modern cinematic orchestration, emphasizing the cultural roots of the story while appealing to a global audience. Key emotional moments are amplified by the music, whether during heart-wrenching flashbacks or intense action sequences. The voice acting, both in Mandarin and dubbed versions, captures the depth of each character’s emotions and motivations.
Themes and Symbolism
The film explores several themes that resonate universally:
- Sisterhood and Loyalty: Xiao Qing’s unwavering devotion to Bai Suzhen drives the story. This bond underscores the sacrifices and emotional weight of family relationships.
- Identity and Independence: Xiao Qing’s journey is not just about saving her sister but also about defining herself beyond that role. Her struggle reflects the challenges of self-discovery and personal growth.
- Resilience in Adversity: The Asura Realm serves as a metaphor for life’s trials. Xiao Qing’s perseverance symbolizes the human spirit’s ability to endure hardship and emerge stronger.
- Myth and Modern Relevance: While rooted in Chinese folklore, the film reinterprets the legend to speak to contemporary audiences, emphasizing timeless values of courage, loyalty, and hope.
Cultural Significance
The White Snake legend is one of the most famous tales in Chinese culture, often adapted in literature, opera, and film. By reimagining this story through modern animation, the filmmakers bridge traditional heritage with contemporary storytelling techniques. This approach not only introduces the legend to younger generations but also presents it to international audiences unfamiliar with Chinese mythology.
Moreover, the decision to center Xiao Qing rather than Bai Suzhen offers a refreshing perspective, allowing audiences to explore lesser-told aspects of the legend. It highlights the importance of secondary characters, giving them agency and depth.
Comparison with the First Film
While the first White Snake movie emphasized romance and emotional tragedy, White Snake 2 leans more toward action, psychological conflict, and personal transformation. Some viewers may find the sequel darker and less romantic, but this tonal shift is intentional. It broadens the narrative scope and ensures that the sequel is not just a repetition of the original but a meaningful continuation.
The change in focus from Bai Suzhen to Xiao Qing also reflects a narrative evolution. It showcases how stories can expand by exploring different perspectives, enriching the overall mythology of the White Snake legend.
Reception and Impact
Since its release, White Snake 2: The Tribulation of the Green Snake has received praise for its stunning visuals, emotional storytelling, and character depth. International audiences have noted its ability to rival popular Japanese and Western animated films. While some critics argue that the plot can be overwhelming due to the surreal Asura Realm, most agree that the emotional core remains strong.
For fans of the first movie, the sequel provides a deeper understanding of Xiao Qing and her significance. For newcomers, it offers an engaging entry point into Chinese mythology, even without prior knowledge of the original tale.
Final Thoughts
White Snake 2: The Tribulation of the Green Snake is a remarkable example of how donghua can merge cultural heritage with modern cinematic techniques. With its emotional depth, breathtaking visuals, and universal themes, it stands as one of the finest animated films from China in recent years. It not only enriches the legend of the White Snake but also reinforces the growing global recognition of Chinese animation.
For those seeking a film that combines action, mythology, and heartfelt storytelling, White Snake 2 is a must-watch. It demonstrates the power of animation to convey complex emotions and timeless lessons while captivating audiences worldwide.