Rediscovering a Classic Myth
The legend of "White Snake," a timeless tale deeply rooted in Chinese culture, continues to captivate audiences through the animated prowess of Light Chaser Animation. Scheduled for its debut on August 10th, "White Snake: The Floating Life" promises to be a cinematic delight for the 2024 summer season, blending ancient lore with contemporary animation techniques.
On July 30th, the film's global premiere gala, titled "Once in a Millennium," was broadcast live from the picturesque West Lake, enchanting viewers with a feast of visuals and sounds. The event gathered the film's creators, including director Chen Jianxi and producer Yu Zhou, alongside renowned actors and singers who brought to life the essence of "White Snake" through performances and discussions.
Bridging Generations and Cultures
The gala featured a remarkable convergence of talents, with Zhao Yazhi and Ye Tong—iconic figures from the 1982 television series "New Legend of Madame White Snake"—joining hands with modern vocalists Chen Haoyu and Chen Lijun, who lent their voices to the film's theme song. This collaboration not only celebrated the enduring appeal of the "White Snake" narrative but also underscored its cultural resonance across different generations.
Amidst the melodic strains of "Floating Life in White," performed live by Chen Haoyu and Chen Lijun aboard a boat on West Lake, the event recreated the iconic moment when Bai Suzhen first met Xu Xian, complete with flowing robes and ethereal charm. For Chen Haoyu, the film represents a bridge between memories cherished by the 80s and 90s generations and a new fascination for the East's romantic myths among the younger audience.
Beyond the Silver Screen: A Multimedia Spectacle
The premiere gala extended far beyond a typical film event, transforming into a six-hour multimedia extravaganza. Activities included in-depth interviews with the creators, expert forums, guided tours of iconic filming locations in Hangzhou, and the launch of a film-themed carnival street, all aimed at immersing viewers deeper into the enchanting world of "White Snake: The Floating Life."
At the "Lanyu Salon," producer Zeng Fan revealed the film's ingenious portrayal of the passage of time through traditional Chinese festivals, while directors Chen Jianxi and Li Jiakai highlighted their collaborative journey, affirming that every challenge was faced together. The voice actors, known for their meticulous portrayal of characters like Xu Xian and Bai Suzhen, added layers of authenticity and emotion to the narrative.
Harmonizing Tradition and Innovation in Music
Central to the film's allure is its evocative musical score, masterfully composed by Guo Hao. Building on the success of previous works such as the "White Snake" series and "Legend of Ravaging Dynasties," Guo Hao innovatively blended symphonic and traditional Chinese musical elements, incorporating new sampling techniques and indigenous instruments like the flute to resonate deeply with the film's emotional core.
During an exclusive interview with the film channel, Guo Hao mesmerized viewers with a solo rendition of "Why Ask," showcasing the technical brilliance that defines the film's soundtrack. He emphasized that while the musical style has matured with each project, "White Snake: The Floating Life" pushes boundaries further, enriching the audience experience with its distinctive soundscapes.
A Cinematic Journey Through Hangzhou
As part of the film's promotional efforts, a nationwide tourism initiative titled "Follow the Film, Travel with the Movie" was launched, starting with an inaugural ceremony at the West Lake Impression Scenic Area in Hangzhou. Viewers were invited to explore key sites featured in the film, such as Qinghefang Street and the Qiantang River, blending cinematic imagery with Hangzhou's rich cultural heritage to drive tourism and enhance viewer engagement.
"White Snake: The Floating Life" not only promises to be a visual spectacle but also a cultural touchstone, showcasing the evolution of Chinese animation and its ability to weave ancient tales into contemporary narratives. As it prepares to charm audiences worldwide, the film stands as a testament to the enduring power of storytelling and the creative vision of Light Chaser Animation in bringing legends to life on the silver screen.
