Release Date: May 12, 2026
The story continues in The Legend of Hei, the acclaimed Chinese animated film that won audiences over with its beautiful hand-drawn animation and heartfelt storytelling. For anyone who missed the original, the movie is available online, with the home video still easy to find. Now the sequel, The Legend of Hei 2, arrives with a brand-new adventure filled with fresh dangers and a looming threat from the spirit world.
While the premise of maintaining balance between worlds may sound familiar, this story takes its own path. The conflict between spirits and humans is a universal theme, but this sequel expands the mythology in new directions rather than echoing other animated series. Readers can check out my review of the first film here.
The upcoming Blu-ray release of The Legend of Hei 2 arrives May 12, 2026 from GKIDS and Shout! Studios, bringing the acclaimed animated sequel home with several behind-the-scenes extras.
From the Press Release:
Revered for its luminous hand-drawn animation and emotionally rich storytelling, The Legend of Hei 2 reunites audiences with a world where spirits and humans coexist in uneasy harmony, raising the stakes with a sweeping new chapter that balances heart, humor, and kinetic action.
The Blu-ray™ release invites fans deeper into the creative vision behind the film with an array of exclusive bonus materials, including behind-the-scenes featurettes with the animation team and voice cast, detailed animation breakdowns, and a collection of teasers and trailers. Both a collector-worthy edition for longtime admirers and an ideal entry point for newcomers, this release celebrates the artistry and craftsmanship that have helped elevate The Legend of Hei into a standout modern animated franchise, while offering viewers the chance to experience its richly imagined world again and again.
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. With gorgeous, hand-drawn animation from directors MTJJ and Gu Jie, The Legend of Hei 2 is the long-awaited follow-up delivering an emotional and action-packed story that will resonate with audiences new and returning.
Special Features:
- Behind the Scenes with the Animation Team
- Behind the Scenes with the Voice Cast
- Animation Breakdowns
- Teasers & Trailers
The Legend of Hei 2 Trailer
