Chinese animated feature "I Am What I Am 2," released on December 14, 2024, has drawn attention for its dynamic action sequences, particularly its martial arts "fights," as highlighted by animation news account Catsuka on social media. The film, directed by Sun Haipeng, is a sequel to the critically acclaimed 2021 movie "I Am What I Am" and shifts its narrative focus from traditional lion dancing to contemporary martial arts in the bustling city of Shanghai.
The sequel follows protagonist A Juan, who enters a "Shanghai Fight Night" martial arts competition to secure funds for his ailing father's medical treatment. This narrative pivot allows for the integration of elaborate combat choreography, which has been praised by some viewers for its visual impact and detailed animation. User reviews on platforms like IMDb have described the film as featuring "stunning animation" and "wonderful fighting scenes," echoing the sentiment of the recent tweet.
Despite its artistic merits in animation and action, "I Am What I Am 2" faced significant commercial hurdles. The film garnered approximately CN¥81.22 million (US$11.32 million) at the box office, a substantial decline compared to its predecessor's CN¥250 million. With estimated production and marketing costs reaching CN¥280 million, the sequel incurred a reported loss of around CN¥200 million (US$27 million).
The financial underperformance has cast uncertainty over the future of the planned third installment, which was intended to complete a trilogy focusing on dragon boat racing. While the first film was lauded for its realistic storytelling and achieved an 8.3/10 rating on Douban, the sequel's reception, particularly its box office results, has led to a re-evaluation of its franchise potential. The film's focus on grounded martial arts and its visual execution remain notable aspects of its production.