Anime

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…

In the bustling world of animation, where creativity meets technical prowess, few stories rival the journey of "The Dust of the World" (落凡尘). Born from the collaboration between students and industry veterans, this epic animated film has transcended expectations and solidified its place as a beacon of Guangdong's burgeoning animation industry. From Humble Origins to National Phenomenon "The Dust of the World" began its life as a humble student project at the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts. Conceived by Professor Zhong Ding (钟鼎) and his team of students, the initial spark came during a brainstorming session where they sought a fresh narrative amidst the backdrop of established mythologies. Their choice fell upon the descendants of the legendary cowherd and weaver girl, exploring uncharted territory in Chinese folklore. The project's early success as a short film on Bilibili catapulted it into the limelight, amassing millions of views and sparking widespread acclaim. It wasn't long before industry giants like Alibaba and Bilibili recognized its potential, joining forces with Yongsheng Animation to scale up this ambitious endeavor into a full-length feature film. Crafting a Visual and Narrative Masterpiece At its core, "The Dust of the World" merges ancient myth with modern storytelling techniques, breathing new life…

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 summer vacation is here, and if you're wondering how to make the most of it, look no further than iQIYI for an electrifying entertainment journey. Whether you're into thrilling adventures with Luffy from "One Piece" (海贼王)or rooting for the playful battles between Xi Yangyang and Hu Tylamb against their nemeses, iQIYI has curated an exciting lineup that promises something for everyone this summer. Exploring the World of Animation and Adventure iQIYI has pulled out all the stops this summer with a diverse array of high-quality children's programs, animations, and documentaries. From beloved classics like "Paw Patrol," (宠物小精灵) "Peppa Pig," (小猪佩奇) to newer hits like "JetX Heroes," (喷射英雄) the platform caters to a wide age range with content that blends entertainment, education, and visual appeal seamlessly. This ensures that children and parents alike can enjoy a safe and immersive viewing experience together. A Wonderland of Animation Diving deeper into the animation world, iQIYI's lineup features not only perennial favorites but also fresh stories like "JetX Heroes." This series follows the adventures of young Johnny as he learns the ropes of being a superhero within his family. It's a journey of growth and courage that resonates with children as they navigate their own paths of discovery and learning.…

The release of the animated film "Fallen from the Heaven" (落凡尘) on July 12 coincided with Universal Pictures' "Despicable Me 4" (神偷奶爸 4), marking the beginning of the summer box office battle. Despite the dominance of "Silent Killer" in the box office, "Fallen from the Heaven" struggled with a mere 5.3% screen share. Amidst market expectations for "Claw Doll" to invigorate the summer box office, the consensus was that animated films would face stiff competition. However, the creators of "Fallen from the Heaven" persevered, refusing to withdraw or compromise amid the current challenges. Continuing the Myth: Beyond Romance, Embracing Family Bonds The tale of the Weaver Girl and the Cowherd, a familiar narrative to Chinese audiences, traditionally focuses on romance between a celestial and a mortal. "Fallen from the Heaven" shifts this focus onto the neglected characters in the story—their two children, left behind as their mother returns to the heavens and their father remains on earth. The son, Jin Feng, strives to redeem his mother's mistake by capturing the twenty-eight constellations, while the daughter, Xiao Fan, grows up orphaned, yearning to reunite with her mother in the celestial realm. This narrative departure from traditional mythology not only enriches the story with familial…

For Team Ninja, an open world may not be a necessary condition to achieve ultimate mastery, but it is an inevitable path they must tread. When the trailers for "Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty" and "Rise of the Ronin" appeared simultaneously at a conference, many were confused, not understanding why Team Ninja would produce two similar games in the same period. It wasn't until later, when it was revealed that "Rise of the Ronin" would be an open-world game, that people had their "aha" moment. After experiencing the game, I deeply felt the ambition contained in Team Ninja's open-world debut. However, this belated ambition, like the decision-makers in their story who find themselves in a great era, inevitably comes with regrets and compromises. If we compare Team Ninja's recent works, we can say that "Wo Long" inherited the mantle of the "Nioh" series, while "Rise of the Ronin" took a reverse path from "Nioh". This reverse path presupposes the use of the same secret techniques. And this source of all techniques, tightly held by Team Ninja, is their proud action gameplay foundation developed over many years. For players who have experienced works like "Nioh" and "Wo Long", getting into "Rise of…

Winsing Animation (咏声动漫), a prominent animation studio from Guangdong, has been making waves at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival! This year, they showcased their new Chinese animation "Into The Mortal World" (落凡尘)， hoping to spark more collaborations with global animation enthusiasts and promote Chinese animation internationally. Yan Bing, Vice President of Winsing Animation, excitedly said, "Our works are the best interpretation of Chinese stories!" In recent years, Chinese animations have been drawing inspiration from traditional culture and boldly innovating. During the MIFA 2024 (Annecy International Animation Film Market), several Guangdong-produced films were highlighted at the Guangdong-European Animation Film Promotion Conference, including the upcoming summer blockbuster "Into The Mortal World." This film has garnered widespread attention in overseas markets. "Into The Mortal World" is based on the Chinese folk legend of the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl, one of China's four great folktales. It tells the story of Jinfen, a descendant of the Weaver Girl, who descends to the mortal world to tame constellations and atone for her mother's sins. She unexpectedly allies with Xiaofan, a mortal girl seeking her mother in the divine realm. Yan Bing introduced, "This work brings the mythology of constellations to the big screen for…

With the continuous innovation and progress of domestic animation, more and more excellent Chinese animation works are welcomed and loved by the most audience. In 2024, the domestic animation market can be described extremely hot. Popular Chinese animation works on major video websites have caught audience’s attention. Today, let's take a look at 8 films of hot Chinese cartoons in 2024 and see if there is one you are following. 1. A Mortal's Journey to Immortality (凡人修仙传) Based on the novel named A Mortal's Journey to Immortality(凡人修仙传), this Chinese cartoon tells a story of a poor boy from a small  village who accidentally enters the small sect of the society that once called JiangHu in ancient China. And eventually cultivates into a hero with his own efforts and ingenuity. As the originator of the "mortal cultivation fairy" genre, the early model of this kind of works is general, but after the  chapter of Star Sea Flight, the picture is significantly improved, and the scene and compact plot have become the biggest highlights of this work, perfectly interpretate the mental progress of the little cultivation fairy. 2. Xian Ni (仙逆) "It’s only in mind between humaness and celestial being, going along or not." Adapted from the popular online novel of the same name, this Chinese cartoon tells a story of…