Unveiling the Charms of "Falling Mortal Dust" and "The Umbrella Girl"
In recent times, the silver screen has been graced with the enchanting allure of traditional Chinese aesthetics through animated films like "Falling Mortal Dust" and "The Umbrella Girl." These cinematic masterpieces not only entertain but also serve as cultural ambassadors, resonating deeply with audiences who find themselves captivated by the hidden "Easter eggs" of Chinese traditions embedded within.
"Falling Mortal Dust": Journeying through Celestial Myths
"Falling Mortal Dust" takes audiences on an odyssey through the mythical realms of the Weaver Girl and the Cowherd, set against the backdrop of the starry heavens. Its profound Eastern aesthetics and emotional depth centered around familial bonds have left a lasting impact on viewers, who praise its narrative resilience.
The film introduces for the first time the Twenty-Eight Mansions of Chinese traditional culture, each constellation associated with various mythological tales. Characters like the gentle Ox, the fearsome Winged Serpent, and the mischievous Tail Tiger from the Twenty-Eight Mansions come to life on the big screen, weaving a tapestry of celestial intrigue.
Embroidery: Stitching History into Art
Embedded within the film's visual tapestry is the artistry of silk embroidery. Director Zhong Ding reveals that the film draws inspiration from China's four famous embroidery styles—Su embroidery, Shu embroidery, Yue embroidery, and Xiang embroidery—each renowned for its intricate craftsmanship.
Su embroidery, known for its delicacy and elegance, captures the gentle beauty of Jiangnan. From design conception to final framing, the creation of a Su embroidery piece involves meticulous stages such as pattern drafting, thread selection, and intricate stitching, showcasing unparalleled artistry.
Shu embroidery, dating back to the Sanxingdui civilization, features precise needlework, vibrant colors, and a variety of stitching techniques, making it the foremost among the four styles. Its rich history and technical complexity contribute to its esteemed reputation.
Yue embroidery, a fusion of Guang embroidery and Chao embroidery, is characterized by its bold designs and strong decorative elements. Utilizing techniques like "three-dimensional padding," Yue embroidery creates lifelike reliefs that breathe vitality into its artworks.
Xiang embroidery, known for its rich colors and lifelike portrayal, is celebrated for its ability to vividly depict flora and fauna. The unique "double-sided embroidery" technique allows for different shapes, needlework, and colors on each side of the fabric, creating a realistic and detailed imagery.
The bustling scenes of the Seven Ancient Towns in the film vividly recreate the lively atmosphere and vibrant cultural life depicted in the famous painting "Qingming Shanghe Tu." Housed in the Palace Museum in Beijing, this masterpiece captures the bustling streets and teeming life of Bianjing, the capital of the Northern Song Dynasty (modern-day Kaifeng, Henan Province).
Painted by Zhang Zeduan over three years, "Qingming Shanghe Tu" spans over 24.8 cm in height and 528 cm in length, portraying over 500 figures, 50 cattle and horses, and 20 boats. It vividly illustrates the diversity and liveliness of urban life during the Northern Song Dynasty.
The ancient art of Sichuan Opera "Face-Changing" (变脸) also dazzles on the bustling streets of the Seven Ancient Towns in the film, astounding audiences with its rapid transformations. Originating as a method to ward off wild animals, "Face-Changing" has evolved into a mesmerizing performance art within Sichuan Opera.
Initially crude, with performers using layered masks and special effects to reveal different layers, "Face-Changing" has developed over generations into a refined art form. Techniques such as "oil painting," "powder blowing," "thread pulling," and "luck-based changes" allow performers to change facial masks in an instant, expressing a character's emotions dynamically.
Shaoxing opera: Elegance in Melody and Movement
Originating from Shaoxing, Zhejiang Province, Yue Opera has grown into the second-largest opera genre in China. Known for its lyrical style and graceful movements, Yue Opera predominantly features stories of scholars and beauties, exuding the elegant charm of Jiangnan culture.
Reviving Tradition Through "velvet flowers"
In a poignant scene from the film, a damaged hairpin is meticulously restored using the art of "velvet," or velvet flowers. Originating in the Tang Dynasty, "velvet flowers" was created as a durable and decorative alternative to real flowers, symbolizing eternal beauty and auspiciousness.
Historically prevalent in Beijing, Tianjin, Nanjing, Yangzhou, and other cities, "velvet flowers" has evolved beyond floral motifs to include a wide array of animals, landscapes, and decorative items. Its integration into daily life—from traditional hair ornaments in period dramas to the velvet flower hats worn at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics—highlights its enduring cultural significance.
In conclusion, these recent Chinese animated films not only entertain but also educate audiences on the rich tapestry of Chinese culture. Through meticulous storytelling and visual artistry, they revive ancient traditions and celebrate the enduring beauty of China's cultural heritage on the global stage.
