Directed by Wuershan
Cast: HUANG Bo, YU Shi, Naernaxi, CHEN Muchi, Kris Phillips, Naran, WU Xingguo, HAN Pengyi
Fantasy/War
2025 / China / 145 mins
WELL GO USA
Non-Spoiler Review
Helmed by visionary director Wuershan, Creation of the Gods II: Demon Force continues the epic Fengshen Trilogy, adapted from the classic 16th-century Chinese novel “Investiture of the Gods“. Jiang Ziya and Ji Fa, aided by the Kunlun immortals, led Xiqi’s defence against the Shang Dynasty’s dark forces. As the battle for the Fengshen Bang intensifies, alliances shift, and secrets emerge in a breathtaking clash of mortals, gods, and monsters.
Where to begin with this one? First, if you enjoyed Creation of the Gods I: Kingdom of Storms, this sequel will blow you away. The visual effects, (now updated and vastly superior) are the true stars of the film. Giants, dragons, and an array of inventive weapons fill the nearly two-and-a-half-hour runtime. But that’s not all director Wuershan brings to the table. Epic battles unfold, pitting mortals against immortals, while a rich historical narrative plays out across both Creation of the Gods films (with a third installment set to enter production soon).
Like the source material, the 16th-century novel “Fengshen Yanyi (The Investiture of the Gods)” the films weave together history, folklore, mythology, legends, and fantasy.
Beyond the engaging story and stunning effects, the cast fully commits to bringing this fantastical world to life, even in the presence of glowing CGI, including the striking blue, three-headed Crown Prince Yin Jiao. Films like this sometimes falter when non-CGI actors take the screen, but Nashi, who plays Deng Chanyu, steals the show. Assertive and highly skilled in martial arts and swordplay, she delivers a commanding performance despite her small stature, demonstrating deep dedication to the role. The chemistry between her and her rival, Yu Shi (Ji Fa), is somewhat lacking, as their interactions occasionally feel flat, but this is a minor flaw in an otherwise captivating film.
Creation of the Gods II: Demon Force is a must-watch for fans of epic fantasy cinema. Bursting with a rich, eye-popping colour palette, jaw-dropping visual effects, and intense battles between mortals, gods, and monsters, the film delivers unfiltered excitement and entertainment. There’s no need to be fully versed in the backstory, just sit back, enjoy, and grab some popcorn before the lights go down.
CREATION OF THE GODS II: DEMON FORCE
Watch in IMAX January 29 | Watch everywhere else January 31
