Where are they now? 2026 Chinese Animation. Looking Back On Enlight’s and Lightchaser’s Schedule and What’s Ahead…

While some of China’s most hyped films from last year don’t have a huge international release, we have the latest observations regarding what’s in store for 2026 Chinese Animation. We’re looking at Ne Zha 2 and 3 along with White Snake Afloat and Curious Tales of a Temple (aka Strange Tales: Lan Ruo Temple)

Ne Zha 2 Poster - 2026 Chinese AnimationWhile looking for the latest word about when Ne Zha 2 will hit home video, and the next film, Ne Zha 3 will release, there are rumours suggesting it could arrive as early as this year. These expectations are far too optimistic. While the 2026 Chinese animation production schedule shows what’s being developed, not everything will be ready to screen until the following year, or much later.

What is confirmed regarding the former is the fact that the third film is actively in development. However, it’s moving forward on a timeline shaped more by precision than speed. Nailing the story and making it visually stunning is clearly the priority. As for the home video release of Ne Zha 2, I have been looking, and right now only bootlegs exist. I suspect it won’t appear until after its streaming run on HBO Max has ended. That, for now, is the definitive news.

As for the latter studio and what comes after Strange Tales, they have new films almost ready to release. The details of their take on Romance of the Three Kingdoms will be covered in a separate upcoming article.

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Updates on Light Chaser Animation’s Next Film, Curious Tales of a Temple or should that be Strange Tales?

Whatever title Light Chaser Animation’s Curious Tales of a Temple uses for this year’s release, let’s hope this anthology of shorts will be just as scary too!

Curious Tales of a Temple Teaser PosterRelease Date:
July 12, 2025

Light Chaser Animation might want to stick to one name for their next film rather than come up with variants. When I was checking in to see if there’s any new content for Curious Tales of a Temple, I found Strange Tales: Lan Ruo Temple too! That’s mostly because this studio is using both and listed the latter as an alternate title. I suspect that a different translator is figuring it out every time a new video is offered.

I prefer the original, Strange Tales from a Chinese Studio (which was used in the announcement trailer) from which this latest is taking ideas from.

When there are over 100 short stories contained within, to decide on which tale to adapt may well be with less than six pieces–or they’ll come fast and furious, told during one summer’s night over a campfire. Whatever the case, I’m excited about this take and hope there are plans for an international release. The last two films got a very limited run; even though I had to wait, I finally saw Chang’n and White Snake: Afloat. When I checked in on who is distributing, it seems to be some from a Chinese company rather than Well Go USA.

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Finally Watching White Snake Afloat! A Touching Review and the Quest to Find This Lost Tale of Love

Although there’s still no proper North American release for Light Chaser Animation’s White Snake Afloat, thankfully eBay has come to the rescue! And I got info regarding the two types of Blu-ray releases available. Meanwhile Warner Brothers Malaysia is handling distro.

White Snake Afloat in this package releaseThe home video release of Light Chaser Animation’s White Snake Afloat is now available in China and select surrounding regions. When I saw a limited edition box set released back in December, I wanted to buy it—but I didn’t have the funds saved.

Fast forward to now: it’s still attainable through eBay, albeit at nearly double its original retail price. Unfortunately, it’s not listed on official English-language retailers like YesAsia or Amazon, and Light Chaser hasn’t made it available on international streaming platforms either. For those willing to pay a premium, the set is a visual treat. It features beautifully illustrated packaging and includes a bonus booklet. While I hoped for additional extras, it appears that beyond the artwork, there’s little else included. Still, I’m relieved the Blu-ray comes with English subtitles.

As for whether Bianca’s (White Snake’s) journey concludes in this final chapter, I’d say yes. Her arc comes full circle. However, I hope the Fox Demon’s story continues. Her subplot remains unresolved and full of potential. She’s a manipulator, often acting as a mysterious merchant of souls across all three films. But just who she’s serving—and why—remains unanswered.

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