The 2026 Oscars are shaping up to be a dynamic year for Best Animated Feature, and leading the charge is Ne Zha II, the highly anticipated sequel to the Chinese animated phenomenon that shattered records overseas. With critical buzz and global appeal, this film could mark the franchise’s major breakthrough in Western markets.
A24 and Star Power: Michelle Yeoh Joins the Cast
One of the biggest reasons for the film’s rising acclaim in the U.S. is the addition of Oscar winner Michelle Yeoh, who lends her voice to the main character’s mother in the English-language version. Her presence has electrified both fans and castmates.
At a special screening, the cast was thrilled about working alongside Yeoh. Vincent Rodriguez III, who voices Li Jing, joked on the red carpet:
“I’ve never met Michelle. This is going to be the first time… I’m a huge fan of yours. Don’t mind my sweating.”
Aleks Le, the voice of fan-favorite Ao Bing, confessed he had been rehearsing what to say all day:
“I don’t want to geek out too much and scare her off… I’ll probably embarrass myself.”
When Michelle Yeoh arrived, wearing a blush-pink blazer and studded Crocs, she charmed everyone from A24 staff to fellow castmates. Her grace and humility visibly stunned the group, leaving many in awe after the interaction.
Oscars Buzz and Awards Season Momentum
Yeoh is set to have a monumental awards season, with Ne Zha II and the upcoming Wicked sequel Wicked: For Good both expected to receive Oscar nominations. She enthusiastically supports both projects:
“I hope they get their nominations. I hope they get Best Picture, even. I am so proud of Jiaozi, the director of Ne Zha II, and his team for the incredible work they’ve done.”
With Yeoh’s addition and A24’s distribution power, Ne Zha II stands poised to become one of the most internationally recognized animated films of the year.
Yeoh’s Expanding Cinematic Universe
Following her Oscar-winning performance in Everything Everywhere All at Once, Michelle Yeoh continues to expand her impressive filmography. Upcoming projects include:
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Wicked: For Good (November 21 release)
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Avatar 4
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Multiple animated and live-action roles, many with Oscar potential
When asked what draws her to a project, Yeoh answered with characteristic thoughtfulness:
“It has to speak to me. The story has to speak to me. And the director — they’re the soul of the film.”
Despite her packed schedule, Yeoh admitted with a laugh that she hasn’t had time to watch this year’s Emmy-nominated shows:
“I’m embarrassed! I’ve been filming so much… but I’d love recommendations.”
Mark Your Calendars: Ne Zha II Hits Theaters August 22
As the countdown begins to the Academy Awards, all eyes are on Ne Zha II, which could be the first major Chinese animated film to break through in the West at this scale.
