Jan. 22, 2023|China|173 Min.|Not Rated
Genre: Action;Drama;Science;Fiction
Description: “The Wandering Earth II,” a 2023 Chinese science fiction film, serves as a prequel to the 2019 movie “The Wandering Earth,” directed by Frant Gwo. Inspired by Liu Cixin’s 2000 short story, the narrative revolves around humanity’s efforts to save Earth from an expanding Sun by constructing massive fusion-powered engines to propel the planet out of the Solar System. Set in a distant future, the story follows astronauts and rescue workers as they navigate challenges to prevent a catastrophic collision with Jupiter.
The original film, released during the 2019 Chinese New Year, became a global success, earning $701 million and ranking as China’s fifth highest-grossing film of all time. Critically acclaimed, it was hailed as China’s first large-scale interstellar blockbuster. Netflix secured its global streaming rights, making it available internationally in April 2019.
The sequel, released in January 2023, expands on the storyline set in 2058, where nations unite to face the impending solar threat. It delves into the personal journey of astronaut Liu Peiqiang, who entrusts his son, Liu Qi, to his grandfather before embarking on a critical mission. Years later, Liu Qi, now an adult, ventures to the Earth’s surface, now frozen and uninhabitable, to fulfill a personal quest.
“The Wandering Earth” series has cemented its place in Chinese cinema, blending thrilling sci-fi elements with human drama and global ambition.
Cast director: Frant Gwo
Cast actor: Wu Jing, Sha Yi, Zhu-Yan Manzi, Li Xuejian, Andy Friend, Wang Zhi, Kawawa Kadichi, Vatilli Makarychev, Clara Lee Sung-min, Tony Nicholson
Original name: 流浪地球2