At this year's Shanghai International Film Festival, the Chinese mainland animation industry got its moment in the spotlight. Lise Fearnley, a jury member and Norwegian producer, applauded studios for moving beyond subcontracted work to focus on original, homegrown storytelling.
For years, Chinese mainland studios carved out a reputation as reliable outsourcing partners – powering blockbuster productions behind the scenes. But a new generation of creators is eager to step into the limelight, developing fresh narratives rooted in local culture and universal themes. This evolution signals a maturing market that values creative ownership as much as technical skill.
We're seeing a real shift from service work to owning intellectual property, Fearnley said. Audiences around the world are hungry for authentic Asian voices – now is the perfect time for Chinese mainland creators to capitalize on that momentum.
Streaming platforms and global festivals are amplifying Asian animation, making it easier than ever for unique stories to find international fans. As budgets grow and creative teams embrace diverse influences – from folk tales to futuristic sci-fi – the industry is poised to deliver content that resonates across cultures.
For young animators, entrepreneurs and tech enthusiasts, this is a call to action: seize the tools, networks and audiences ready to engage with original Chinese mainland storytelling. The animation sector is no longer just a production hub – it's a creative frontier.
Reference(s):
Chinese animation: From outsourcing to original storytelling
cgtn.com
