La serpiente verde

I wasn't expecting much of a Netflix recommendation, especially since they hide the fact that it's a sequel, yet I actually enjoyed it. I don't agree entirely with the story, quite sure I didn't understand part of it (especially because the mythological background it's a bit far from my knowledge, and the movie does little effort to introduce it), and I pretty sure part of it can't actually make sense. Yet the animation and scenography are great, the action sequence and the characters design are really good, and the story is enjoyable, giving some nice entertainment, which actually makes me look for the prequel, and makes me think that maybe some great movies could be produced with those elements.

Its worth 7/10 for the ideas and its also quite nice to watch. Its worth to pay movie.

Basically what the title says. The animation is superb, the action is breathtaking.

But the overall plot and the setting isn't on the same level of quality as the first movie.

Definitely looking forward to a 3rd one if they decide to make it.

These comments are based on watching the film in Mandarin with English subtitles; the names used are those used in the Netflix subtitles.

As this Chinese animated sequel opens to sisters; Verta, the Green Snake, and Bianca, the White Snake, are battling Fahai, a demon slaying monk. He prevails and Bianca is confined to a pagoda. Verta tries to continue the fight but finds herself transported to Asuraville, a modern city where her demon powers no longer work. It is a city in conflict; with humans, demons and various creatures fighting to survive or dominate. Verta will have to find people she can trust and overcome many difficulties if she is to discover a way out of the city and rescue her sister.

The English title of this film should be 'White Snake 2: The Tribulation of the Green Snake' but on Netflix it is retitled 'Green Snake'; presumably because would prefer people weren't put off by the fact that it is a sequel to 'White Snake'; a film they don't have the rights to. I suspect that watching 'White Snake' first would be a good idea but even without seeing that I really enjoyed this. The prologue quickly introduces characters before the action moves to Asuraville; here we are introduced to more characters and quickly learn that not everybody who Verta gets help from will survive. There is lots of impressive action; both the spectacular fight scenes and movement through the cityscape. The character designs and animation are really good; up there with Disney/Pixar... but a little more suggestively dressed! While the action isn't gory it might be too intense for younger viewers, some events may be too upsetting as well so I wouldn't recommend this to younger viewers unless an older family member has checked it out first. Overall though I'd certainly recommend this to older viewers; especially fans of animation or Chinese drama/action with magical elements. Having enjoyed this I'll certainly keep an eye open for 'White Snake'.

I appreciated the first chapter ("White Snake") somewhat more, because it was a bit more grounded in the character dynamics over the extreme fantasy world aspects. Nevertheless this movie is beautiful and intense :-)