At first glance, these supernatural 'yaoguais' (fang creatures) from Journey to the West might have seemed like bit players – little more than the backdrop to the Monkey King's legendary quest. But in 'Nobody,' an upcoming animated feature hitting theaters on August 2, they finally get their moment to shine.
In an exclusive with CGTN, the creative team shared how they breathed life into these nameless beings, charting their joyful triumphs and heart-wrenching struggles on a journey for sacred scriptures. Executive Producer Zhang Jingwen, Producer Yang Sha, and Director Zhao Ying combined traditional storytelling with cutting-edge animation to craft a modern allegory about self-discovery and resilience.
By focusing on everyday emotions – curiosity, doubt, hope – the filmmakers transformed ancient myth into a mirror for today's world. They tapped into universal themes of belonging and growth, weaving in vibrant visuals that celebrate cultural heritage while pushing the boundaries of animated storytelling.
Early footage teases imaginative settings and richly detailed characters, hinting at a film that balances humor with heartfelt moments. As the yaoguais navigate obstacles and forge unexpected friendships, audiences can expect more than just a spectacle; they'll find a story that resonates with anyone on their own path to finding purpose.
With 'Nobody' poised to debut this August, the film's unique perspective promises to spark conversations across cultures – from animation studios and film festivals to online communities of young global citizens. Stay tuned: these once-forgotten creatures are ready to become unexpected heroes.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
