Anime

Chinese sci-fi animation is quietly undergoing a revolution. No longer confined to tropes of myth or fantasy, a new wave of creators is tackling speculative futures with precision and boldness. These works don't shout for attention; they earn it through sharp world-building, unflinching themes, and a refusal to simplify humanity's relationship with technology. From crumbling post-apocalyptic cities to AI-dominated dystopias, these stories ask urgent questions: What does survival cost? Can humanity evolve without losing itself? The answers are rarely comfortable but always compelling. Below are seven essential titles that define this movement—not as "cultural milestones" but as raw, inventive narratives. They prioritize substance over spectacle, proving that Chinese sci-fi animation isn't just catching up—it's carving its own path. Ling Cage: Incarnation 灵笼 In Ling Cage: Incarnation, humanity's survival hinges on a brutal calculus: sacrifice empathy or perish. The floating fortress Lighthouse enforces a genetic hierarchy where "Uppercitizens" hoard resources while "Dust Citizens" endure dehumanizing labor and insect-based diets. This system strips away human bonds—exemplified by the Dawn Hall's emotionless breeding rituals—reducing life to a eugenicist project. Mark, a Hunter captain tasked with scavenging a monster-infested Earth, initially upholds this order until discovering the Lighthouse's darkest secret: a cult sacrificing children…

Chinese romance animations thrive on bold storytelling and character-driven intimacy. Series like Fox Spirit Matchmaker hook viewers with immortal lovers defying reincarnation cycles, while No Doubt in Us reinvents relationship dynamics through a royal couple's body-swap chaos. These stories avoid tired tropes by grounding emotions in tangible stakes: a demon hunter's loyalty tested across lifetimes in Demon List, or a mortal girl unraveling celestial secrets in Contemplation of Affection. What unites them is razor-sharp focus on how characters earn love—whether battling societal expectations or their own flaws—making every confession or sacrifice resonate with raw, earned authenticity. Fox Spirit Matchmaker 狐妖小红娘 "Fox Spirit Matchmaker" redefines fantasy romance with its inventive premise of fox spirits bridging past and present loves. At its core lies the hauntingly beautiful saga of Dongfang Yuechu, a mortal warrior, and Tu Shan Honghong, a fox spirit matchmaker bound by centuries of duty. Their story isn't a straightforward courtship but a layered unraveling of identities—she must confront her role as an emotionless facilitator of others' romances while secretly yearning for her own; he grapples with fragmented memories of lives where their love repeatedly ended in tragedy. The series weaponizes reincarnation as both plot device and emotional catalyst. Flashbacks to past lives—as star-crossed lovers in imperial courts…

In the animated film Nezha: The Devil's Birth, both Nezha and Ao Bing sport distinctive forehead designs. Many of us might recall having a similar dot on our foreheads during childhood. But what's the story behind this shared symbol? The forehead decoration is known as Huadian (花钿), and it's not unique to this film. Historical depictions of Nezha often feature similar designs. In fact, many of us had these dots as children. Huadian has been popular throughout Chinese history, especially among women and children. These decorations came in various styles, colors, and materials, ranging from flat to three - dimensional. During the Song Dynasty, some were even made of pearls for added elegance. Why Do Children Wear Huadian? While it's understandable why women adorned themselves with Huadian for beauty, why did children wear them? One folk belief suggests that marking the center of the forehead symbolizes the opening of wisdom. A traditional rite of passage called Kaibi Li (开笔礼), or "Breaking the Seal," marks a child's entry into learning. Using cinnabar (a traditional protective substance) on the forehead combines the idea of warding off evil with the hope for intelligence. A more plausible explanation ties Huadian to the Dragon Boat…

The recent release of 'Nezha: The Devil Boy's Havoc' (Nezha 2) has reignited discussions about the iconic bun hairstyle that seems to define Nezha's appearance across various adaptations. Is it a coincidence or a stereotype? Netizens joke: 'Nezha can change his fate, but not his hairstyle.' The origin of the 'bun hairstyle' can be traced back to ancient China, where it was one of the many hairstyles popular among women. Its roots lie in the 'double bun' style, which was highly fashionable during that era. Excavated pottery figurines vividly depict the societal admiration for delicate feminine beauty. This trend even influenced ancient Japanese fashion, particularly during the Nara period. Historical dramas like NHK's 'The Great Buddha Opening Eyes,' set in Nara, showcase characters adorned with Tang Dynasty - inspired double - bun hairstyles. In Chinese history, children's double - bun hairstyles were referred to as 'Zongjiao.' Ancient texts emphasize the importance of preserving one's hair as a sign of filial piety. From around eight or nine years old, Han children, regardless of gender, would part their hair into two small buns resembling horns, hence the name 'Zongjiao.' Girls' buns were often styled like branching twigs, known as 'Yaji,' which led…

Tencent Video and Tencent Animation have become hubs for China's animation gems, blending ancient myths, futuristic sagas, and everything in between. Here are 10 must-watch Chinese anime series that redefine what Donghua can be. Battle Through the Heavens 斗破苍穹 At first glance, Battle Through the Heavens fits squarely into the classic cultivation formula: a fallen genius named Xiao Yan sets out to regain his status and surpass his former self. But unlike many shows where power-ups come too easily, BTTH is unusually committed to making every stage of Xiao Yan's progress feel earned—and hard-won. The early loss of his talent isn't just a narrative hook; it forces him to rely on intellect and resourcefulness rather than sheer force. When he gains a mysterious old mentor, Yao Lao, their relationship doesn't just serve as a shortcut for instant power. Yao Lao is more like a chessmaster, constantly reminding Xiao Yan that in this world, raw power alone won't keep you alive—reputation, alliance, and careful timing matter just as much. One of the most distinctive features of this show is its emphasis on alchemy. In many xianxia stories, alchemy is just background dressing—here, it becomes a central tool of conflict and control.…

Bilibili has become a hub for high-quality Chinese animation, offering diverse genres and fresh storytelling. This list highlights standout titles that resonate with both casual viewers and anime enthusiasts, prioritizing engaging plots and unique styles over abstract praise. The Outcast 一人之下 The Outcast (2016-present) is a Chinese animated series blending urban fantasy, dark comedy, and martial arts. With 5 seasons so far, it follows Zhang Chulan, a college student dragged into the hidden world of "Heteromorphs"—people with supernatural abilities—after his estranged grandfather’s death. Teaming up with the enigmatic, deadpan Feng Baby (who wields kitchen knives and an immortal past), he uncovers family secrets while dodging rival factions seeking ancient power. The show stands out for balancing gritty action with quirky humor. Fight scenes mix traditional Chinese martial arts (like Baguazhang) with creative superpowers—a villain manipulates chess pieces as weapons; another controls paper. The animation, while not ultra-polished, delivers kinetic choreography and distinct character designs, especially in later seasons. Character dynamics drive the story. Zhang Chulan evolves from a cynical slacker to a cunning strategist, using wit rather than brute strength. Feng Baby’s emotionless demeanor hides tragic depth, and villains like the scheming Wang Ye feel layered—driven by ambition, not pure…

The main visual of the second season of the animation 'Goodbye, Earth' has been revealed! The official release date is set for April 4th. On February 10, 2025, the official trailer (PV) and a brand - new main visual of the TV animation 'Goodbye, Earth' Season 2 were spectacularly unveiled. The official announced that the series will premiere on April 4th. This action - fantasy animation, adapted from the novel of the same name by Okiura Ding, has sparked heated discussions with its unique worldview and profound character development since the first season aired. The return of Season 2 is sure to continue this popularity. The story of Season 2 will continue to revolve around Labrac Bell, who became a swordsman to obtain the qualification of a wanderer and faces battles both within the city and outside. What challenges and difficulties will he encounter in this process? How will he find his own kind? These questions have piqued people's curiosity. 1. The Original Team Reunites, with Upgraded Music and Visuals Season 2 retains the core production team from Season 1: Director Nishikata Yasuto and Assistant Director Yokote Sota work together to control the rhythm. Yoshino Hiroyuki is responsible for the…

When the opening theme of the anime hit 230 million views on Bilibili, this cultivation anime adapted from the novel of the same name by author Er Gen is setting off a new wave in the Chinese anime field. Different from, which tells a story of a commoner's counter - attack, the cultivation world constructed in is a philosophical maze about “Going with the flow makes one ordinary; going against it makes one a celestial being”. The animation production team, with top - notch production that burns millions per second, has pioneered a new paradigm of Eastern cultivation aesthetics in the field of 3D animation. The Dimensional Leap of Cultivation Narrative The visual translation of the original text in the anime is amazing. When Wang Lin was practicing in the Hengyue Sect, the production team used particle effects to construct the trajectory of spiritual energy flow, transforming the originally abstract text description into a visual energy map. When the protagonist uses the “Extinction Finger”, the ink - style shockwaves bloom layer by layer in the 3D space. This visual deconstruction of cultivation skills gives traditional Xianxia (仙侠) elements a cyber - punk future sense. In terms of character creation, the…

Hello everyone! At the same location but different times, I'm here with you again. Today, I'm enthusiastic to recommend a captivating xianxia masterpiece, A Will Eternal. A Will Eternal builds a grand and wonderful xianxia world with its gripping plot. The story follows the protagonist, Bai Xiaochun (白小纯), a common teenager who grows through numerous hardships on the xianxia path with firm belief and fearless courage. His growth is full of twists and turns, which makes us feel as if we're experiencing joys and sorrows alongside him. Every crisis and breakthrough keeps the audience on the edge of their seats, eager to know what happens next. In terms of character portrayal, A Will Eternal is truly excellent. Bai Xiaochun is a vivid character. He's both innocent and kind, and also sly and witty at times. He's not a perfect hero in the traditional sense but has his own little flaws and thoughts, making him as amiable as a friend around us. Other characters are also distinctive, with their personalities, motives, and actions reasonably developed, which makes the relationships in the story complex and full of tension. Moreover, the visual effects of the series are amazing. The beautiful xianxia scenes and…

On March 26 local time, the Chinese animated film "Ne Zha: Reborn from Fire" ("Ne Zha 2") officially premiered in Belgium. On the opening night, the cinema hall in Brussels was packed with audiences. Many viewers said that although they had heard that the film was excellent, its actual quality still exceeded their expectations. According to the local cinema, the version of "Ne Zha 2" currently showing in Belgium is with English subtitles. Starting from mid - April, a version with French subtitles will be available, which is expected to attract more local audiences.

2025 emerges as a landmark year for Xianxia (仙侠) — a genre blending immortal heroes, ancient mythology, and Taoist-inspired cultivation. This guide highlights the most anticipated Xianxia anime of 2025. Dive into epic tales of celestial battles, mortal struggles, and philosophical depth, all while immersing yourself in China's historical and mythological heritage. A Record of a Mortal's Journey to Immortality: Overseas Strife 凡人修仙传：外海风云 Aired: January 2025 (ongoing) Genres: Cultivation, Adventure, Political Intrigue Cultural Themes: Han Dynasty aesthetics, Confucian values, Taoist philosophy Based on Wang Yu's legendary novel A Record of a Mortal's Journey to Immortality, this highly anticipated arc follows Han Li, a pragmatic mortal navigating the treacherous world of cultivation. The Overseas Strife installment takes the story beyond the familiar sect conflicts and into uncharted maritime territories, where Han Li faces foreign cultivators, demonic sea creatures, and ancient island ruins hiding lost techniques. As an ordinary man relying on intellect rather than destiny, Han Li's journey encapsulates the enduring appeal of the underdog—a mortal striving for ascension in a world dominated by celestial elites. The animation's hyper-realistic art style, reminiscent of traditional Chinese landscape paintings, breathes life into mist-shrouded mountains, oceanic whirlpools, and intricately designed talismans. The attention to…

​A Digital Muse Comes to Life In the ever-expanding universe of Honor of Kings (王者荣耀), few characters command as much devotion as Xi Shi. With her ethereal design and strategic gameplay appeal, she’s become a cultural icon—both in-game and IRL. But recently, a cosplayer’s jaw-dropping reinterpretation of Xi Shi’s Poetry Rain Over Jiangnan（诗雨江南）skin has blurred the lines between pixels and reality, sparking debates about artistry, fandom, and the power of China-chic（国潮）. ​The Skin That Started a Frenzy Xi Shi’s Poetry Rain Over Jiangnan skin reimagines the mage-hero in Republican-era China aesthetics: a qipao（旗袍）in muted jade, a white lotus cradled delicately in hand, and hairpins echoing 1920s Shanghai（上海）. It’s a nostalgic yet fresh take—one that cosplayer @LingXiaolu_ replicated with surgical precision. Her viral photoshoot nails every detail: The qipao’s embroidered cloud patterns, hand-stitched to mirror in-game textures A custom wig dyed to match the skin’s gradient ash-brown tones A lotus prop crafted from resin and silk, glowing under UV light for that “spellcasting” effect But accuracy alone didn’t break the internet. ​The Unreplicable X-Factor What catapulted @LingXiaolu_’s cosplay into the stratosphere was her uncanny embodiment of Xi Shi’s essence. Fans noted how her features—almond-shaped eyes, a porcelain complexion, and lips curved like classical ink paintings—mirrored the…

The box office triumph of Ne Zha 2 is no longer just about cinema. The film has ignited a commercial frenzy, proving that China’s cultural IPs can rival global giants like Marvel or Disney. With over 20 brands racing to collaborate and licensing fees doubling overnight, this animated sequel has rewritten the rules of IP monetization in China—and the world is taking notice. ​A New Era for Chinese IPs When Ne Zha 2 stormed global box office charts, it didn’t just break records—it shattered ceilings. The film’s IP licensing fees skyrocketed from 700,000 to 1.25 million, yet brands still clamored for partnerships. From dairy giant Mengniu to pop-culture powerhouse Pop Mart, collaborations spanned industries: themed milk cartons sold 12 million units in 10 days, while limited-edition blind boxes sold out within seconds, later reselling at 10x their original price. Analysts at Kaiyuan Securities estimate the IP’s 衍生品 (derivative products) revenue could hit 1.5–2.1 billion, with the franchise’s total commercial value reaching 4.2–4.9 billion. This isn’t just about toys or T-shirts; it’s about a cultural reset. As one industry expert noted, “Ne Zha is China’s first true super IP—transcending age, industry, and borders”. Bridging East and West The film’s global success…

As one of Chinese mythology's most iconic figures, Ne Zha—the fearless boy deity wielding a Fire-tipped Spear and Cosmic Ring—has transcended centuries through folklore, literature, and modern media. Beyond today's cinematic adaptations, Guangzhou's museums safeguard a treasure trove of artifacts that reveal how this cultural icon captivated imaginations long before the age of blockbusters. From ancient porcelain to architectural masterpieces, Ne Zha's legacy intertwines with Guangzhou's history as a hub of art, trade, and storytelling. Let's explore his enduring presence across the city's collections. Ne Zha Sails Overseas During the 18th and 19th centuries, Guangzhou's bustling port fueled a golden age of ceramic exports. Among these treasures, a Qing Dynasty Fencai (粉彩) "Investiture of the Gods" (封神演义) vase at the Guangzhou Museum stands out. Painted with vivid scenes from the Ming-era epic, the vase immortalizes Ne Zha's battle against the Dragon King—a tale later popularized by modern films. This artifact underscores how Guangzhou's artisans transformed literary classics into globally traded art. Export porcelain of this era often featured narratives from Romance of the Three Kingdoms or Journey to the West, but Ne Zha's inclusion highlights his timeless resonance. Centuries before animation studios reimagined him, his legend traveled to Europe and…

In early 2025, the animated film Ne Zha 2 (哪吒2) stormed into theaters, shattering box office records and captivating audiences worldwide. Not only did it become the highest-grossing film in Chinese cinema history, surpassing even Star Wars: The Force Awakens in single-market earnings, but it also marked a historic milestone as the first Asian film to break into the global top 30 box office rankings. With an impressive 87.3 score on China’s Film Audience Satisfaction Survey, an 8.5 on Douban, and an 8.3 on IMDb, the film has cemented its place as a cultural and commercial triumph. But what makes Ne Zha 2 so special? Beyond its perfect timing during the Lunar New Year holiday and the enduring popularity of the Ne Zha IP, the film’s success lies in its masterful storytelling, cutting-edge animation, and deep cultural resonance. A Modern Twist on a Myth Ne Zha, a beloved figure in Chinese mythology, has been reimagined countless times across literature, theater, and film. From the mischievous child deity in Havoc in Heaven (大闹天宫) to the tragic hero in Ne Zha Conquers the Dragon King (哪吒闹海), each iteration has emphasized his rebellious spirit and supernatural prowess. However, Ne Zha 2 takes a…

In the rich tapestry of Chinese mythology, few figures are as iconic as Ne Zha (哪吒), the rebellious child deity known for his fiery spirit and supernatural abilities. Central to his legend is his unique origin: crafted from lotus roots and leaves, Ne Zha’s very being is intertwined with the lotus plant. But what about his legendary attire, the so-called "lotus robe" (荷衣)? This article delves into the origins, symbolism, and evolution of this mythical garment, tracing its journey from ancient texts to modern interpretations. The Origins of Ne Zha’s Lotus Robe Ne Zha’s connection to the lotus is deeply rooted in Chinese literature. In Investiture of the Gods (封神演义), one of China’s great mythological novels, Ne Zha is resurrected using lotus stems and leaves after his tragic death. The text describes how the deity Taiyi Zhenren (太乙真人) fashioned Ne Zha’s body from “two lotus flowers and three lotus leaves,” with the stems forming his bones and the petals his flesh. Similarly, Journey to the West (西游记) refers to Ne Zha as having a “body of jade lotus roots and clothes of lotus leaves.” This imagery is not merely decorative; it carries profound symbolic weight. The lotus, revered in Chinese…

For a generation raised on the sleek aesthetics of 2D hand-drawn and 3D CGI animation, stop-motion might seem like an antiquated relic of the past. Unlike its counterparts, stop-motion is built on tangible artistry: puppets, clay figures, and mixed materials manipulated frame by painstaking frame. The result? A distinctive, textured realism unmatched by digital techniques. In China, the legacy of stop-motion animation once flourished with studios like Shanghai Animation Film Studio producing classics such as Magic Brush Ma Liang (神笔马良) and The Story of Avanti (阿凡提的故事). However, since the rise of CGI in the 1980s, stop-motion animation has become a niche art form globally, celebrated only by enthusiasts or explored in experimental shorts. Breaking this lull, Tencent Video’s Lantern Blade (灯笼刀) reintroduces audiences to the magic of stop-motion animation, this time through a gritty, action-packed lens. Adapting the cult-favorite comic of the same name, Lantern Blade blends martial arts, cosmic horror, and Western-esque atmospheres into a striking 67-minute trilogy. A Blade that Glows in the Dark Lantern Blade opens in a shadowy, mythical world steeped in Lovecraftian lore. The story revolves around an enigmatic warrior named Lantern Blade, whose titular weapon, a lantern-clad sword, glows in the presence of undead…

The Intricacies of Visual Design and Symbolism The 3D animated series The Island of Siliang (眷思量) has captured the attention of audiences not only with its compelling storyline but also through its meticulous attention to visual details, bringing to life an intricate world steeped in fantasy and ancient aesthetics. Its characters' costumes, architecture, and environments all blend traditional Chinese art forms with modern animation techniques, creating an immersive and beautiful spectacle that stands out in a genre often dominated by action-packed, fast-paced narratives. At the heart of the visual appeal is the stunning use of gongbi (工笔) painting styles in the characters' costumes, where each delicate fold and vibrant color reflects the character's inner world. The animation's distinct aesthetic feels like a dreamlike blend of historical fantasy and realism, where the costumes are not just clothes, but living expressions of the characters’ personalities and emotions. The feminine elegance of the character Tuli (屠丽), who is often draped in soft pink hues, communicates her warmth and purity, while the vibrant colors and flowing patterns of other characters enhance their dynamic qualities. In addition to the visual allure of the costumes, the world-building of The Island of Siliang introduces a social structure…

A Bold New Frontier in Animation and Ecology As the first domestic animated film to tackle the theme of the Yangtze River’s unique ecosystem, The Dance With the Finless Promise (江豚·风时舞) boldly ventures into a relatively untouched genre. Its main character, the Yangtze River dolphin, shines a light on China’s endangered aquatic wildlife and broader environmental concerns. Despite the technical and storytelling challenges of portraying aquatic life, this film attempts to immerse viewers in an underrepresented realm of nature that is both visually complex and emotionally delicate. While animal-themed films have long enchanted audiences worldwide, they mostly center on terrestrial animals. Films about underwater creatures remain rare, often limited by technical constraints, the challenge of capturing aquatic behavior, and viewers' limited emotional connection to marine animals. These factors set The Dance With the Finless Promise apart, as it ambitiously combines an artistic portrayal of an endangered species with the practical goals of raising awareness about ecological preservation. Creating a realistic underwater world poses significant technical challenges. Underwater scenes demand specialized equipment and expertise, such as high-quality underwater cameras, lighting adjustments for variable water conditions, and the need to replicate water’s movement realistically. The high production costs and complex requirements for…

Since its debut in 2023, the animated series "Alchemy of a Hundred Millennia" has consistently captivated audiences, earning its place alongside renowned Chinese anime like "Cover the Sky," (遮天) "Battle Through the Heavens," (斗破苍穹) and "Soul Land." (斗罗大陆) Adapted from the full-copyright original IP on the Himalaya Miracle Literature platform, the anime's success has not only brought attention to Himalaya's original literary works but also showcased the growing maturity of original IP adaptations within the animation industry. The Origin and Journey of "Alchemy of a Hundred Millennia" Originating from the prolific writer "Spoon" on the Himalaya Miracle Literature platform, "Alchemy of a Hundred Millennia" narrates the story of Xu Yang, a disciple of Tianlan Sect, who emerges from a hundred thousand years of seclusion to face the sect's crisis and lead them to overturn their fate. Initially launched as an audio drama on Himalaya in 2020, featuring exclusive anchors like Lao Baoyu, Bai Fufu, and Jing Da Jin, the drama has amassed over 570 million plays to date. In 2023, the animated adaptation, jointly produced by Shanghai Tencent Penguin Film Culture Communication Co., Ltd. and Hangzhou Suoyi Culture Communication Co., Ltd., premiered exclusively on Tencent Video. Its debut week saw…

On July 9th, the Shanghai premiere of the animated film "Falling into the Dust" (落凡尘) at SHO Shanghai Cinema stirred excitement among viewers and critics alike. For many, it evoked memories of the summer of 2019 when "Ne Zha," (哪吒) a groundbreaking Chinese animated film, set new box office records and redefined the potential of Chinese animation. Could "Falling into the Dust" mark the beginning of another five-year era for Chinese animation? Drawing inspiration from the folk legend of the Cowherd and Weaver Girl, "Falling into the Dust" tells the story of Jin Feng, a descendant of the Weaver Girl, who descends to earth to tame constellations in a bid to atone for her mother's sins. Unexpectedly, she allies with Xiao Fan, a young girl determined to ascend to the heavenly realm in search of her mother. This narrative not only breathes new life into mythological themes but also integrates modern elements such as bubble tea and hotpot restaurants into traditional town aesthetics, injecting humor and relatability into the storyline. Director Zhong Ding, an associate professor at Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts, transformed the film from its origins as a graduate design project into a full-length feature with the help of Bilibili,…

On July 14th, amidst a backdrop of suspense and excitement, Tencent Video's highly anticipated original animated shorts collection finally lifted its veil, launching with its debut works "Save Me" and "Lantern Blade" under the "Stop-Motion Animation Series". These shorts, exclusive to Tencent Video's JUMP Card, mark the beginning of a journey into the realms of fantasy and creativity. Featuring 12 animated shorts crafted by a diverse group of 12 directors from around the world, the collection is structured around three main themes: "Stop-Motion Animation Series", "Young Directors Series", and "Great Artists Series". Innovative Storytelling through Classic Animation Imagine finding a message in a drifting bottle inside a public restroom toilet – it reads "Save Me" (救我) alongside precious diamonds. Between the struggle of desires, would you choose to rescue the one in distress or wait for more diamonds? This is the premise of "Save Me", a whimsical tale that navigates through twists and turns of wuxia adventure and mystery. Meanwhile, "Lantern Blade" (灯笼刀) dives into the realms of traditional martial arts and Lovecraftian horror, bridging Eastern and Western elements to convey universal values of truth and beauty. Upcoming in the series, "The Inn of Heroes" promises a modern-day comedic take on martial…

As the summer breeze wafts in, Youku Anime has specially curated its "Summer Anime Slate," released on July 4th, promising an array of captivating shows. This lineup not only features highly anticipated sequels like "Cang Yuan Tu: Dong Ning Prefecture Side Story," (沧元图:东宁府番外篇) "Shounen Hakumai Zui Shunchi 2," (少年白马醉春风2) "Bai Lian Cheng Shen Special Episode," (百炼成神) and "Shen Mu 2," (神墓2) but also introduces new national style animations such as "Shi Xiong Ah Shi Xiong," "Xian Wu Chuan," and "An He Chuan," alongside the return of classics like "Ultraman Ace," "Crayon Shin-chan 8," and "Armor Hero." Sequels Ignite Anticipation: Continuing the Saga of Acclaimed IPs In recent years, creating sequels within anime universes has become a dominant trend. Leveraging the strength of established IPs aims to recapture the attention of anime enthusiasts and continue the legacy of high acclaim. The return of critically acclaimed IPs in Youku Anime's summer lineup is sure to ignite fervent discussions among fans. Among the highly anticipated sequels in this summer lineup, "Cang Yuan Tu: Dong Ning Prefecture Side Story" stands out with its exquisite character portrayal and innovative Chinese aesthetics. Its premiere day witnessed exceptional popularity across various platforms, topping internal anime charts and making waves on Douyin and Kuaishou. On July…

The summer blockbuster season is not just a battlefield for movies and TV series but also a crucial opportunity for Chinese animation to capture young audiences and create hit products. Leading this charge in recent times is "What's the Deal," which premiered on iQIYI on June 14th, igniting a fervor among viewers and marking the first salvo in this year's summer animation lineup. "What's the Deal" (成何体统) tells the story of Wang Cuihua, a corporate drone who unexpectedly finds herself reincarnated as a villainous demon princess in a book, and her subsequent adventures with the tyrannical emperor, also a time-traveler. The series has been praised for its innovative storytelling, art style, and voice acting. Since its release, it has garnered significant acclaim and high viewership on iQIYI's platform, social media, and short video platforms alike. The success of "What's the Deal" underscores iQIYI's prowess in producing animation hits that resonate with user demands and steer trends in the animation market. Following the success of its first annual series, "The Great Ruler," iQIYI has expanded its capacity to produce high-quality animations that continue to dominate discussions and set benchmarks in the industry. "What's the Deal" exemplifies this trend by exploring scarcity in its…