October 28 marks International Animation Day, a tribute to the art form's rich history and its global impact. This year, the spotlight shines brightly on the remarkable journey of Chinese animation, celebrating over a century of creativity and cultural expression.
The roots of Chinese animation trace back to 1922 when the Wan brothers produced \"Shu Zhen Dong Chinese Typewriter,\" the first animated advertisement in China. This pioneering effort laid the foundation for a vibrant animation industry that would flourish throughout the 20th century. Studios like the Shanghai Animation Film Studio became renowned for their classic domestic animated films, which skillfully blended storytelling with national artistic styles.
In recent years, Chinese animated films have garnered both critical acclaim and commercial success on the global stage. Hits such as \"Monkey King: Hero is Back,\" \"Big Fish & Begonia,\" \"White Snake,\" and \"Ne Zha\" have captivated audiences with their exceptional production quality and deep cultural roots. These films not only showcase traditional Chinese aesthetics but also resonate with international viewers, highlighting the universal themes embedded in Chinese storytelling.
2023 was a standout year with films like \"Chang'an\" and \"Boonie Bears: Guardian Code\" each grossing over 1 billion yuan (approximately $140 million) at the box office. These successes underscore the industry's ability to blend cultural heritage with contemporary narratives, promoting Chinese traditions while appealing to modern tastes.
The 14th China International Animation Copyright Fair (ACTIF), held from October 24 to 27 in Dongguan, Guangdong Province, served as a significant platform for the Chinese film and animation industry to engage with the world. Under the theme \"Global Animation Trends of the Future,\" the fair attracted over 500 companies and institutions from 60 countries and regions, showcasing more than 1,500 intellectual properties (IPs). The event highlighted innovative content, cutting-edge technologies, and emerging business models shaping both domestic and international film and animation landscapes.
A highlight of ACTIF was the dedicated \"Animation Technology Equipment Exhibition,\" featuring advancements in virtual reality, augmented reality, generative AI, and bare-eye 3D interaction. These technologies are revolutionizing the way audiences experience animation, fostering a convergence between animation and other industries, and paving the way for future innovations.
As Chinese animation continues to evolve, it remains a powerful medium for cultural exchange and artistic expression. By rooting itself in Chinese culture and national art, the industry not only preserves and promotes fine traditions but also embodies the essence of Chinese aesthetics, making it a vital contributor to the global animation community.
Reference(s):
International Animation Day: The development of Chinese animation
cgtn.com
