“奇谭宇宙”归来，《中国奇谭2》9支动画短片定档元旦

Core Insights - The article announces the release of "Chinese Fantasy 2," a collection of animated shorts set to premiere exclusively on Bilibili on January 1, 2026, showcasing diverse styles and new characters rooted in Chinese aesthetics and culture [1][17]. Group 1: Project Overview - "Chinese Fantasy 2" consists of nine animated shorts created by a collaboration of 12 directors, expanding the artistic boundaries of the "Fantasy Universe" while maintaining traditional cultural elements [6][17]. - The project aims to explore themes of reality and illusion, inviting viewers to engage with the narratives to discover deeper meanings [4][15]. Group 2: Artistic Contributions - The series features returning directors and new talents, each contributing unique styles, such as Chen Lianhua's felt animation in "Little Snow" and Hu Rui's ink wash techniques in "Ears of the People" [6][7]. - New directors bring diverse artistic expressions, including Du Pengpeng's dark fairy tale in "Big Bird" and Ouyang Zhonghong's blend of martial arts and sci-fi in "Sanlang" [9][15]. Group 3: Thematic Exploration - The shorts reflect contemporary issues through a blend of ancient and modern storytelling, addressing topics like self-identity and generational emotions [15][16]. - The series aims to resonate with audiences by mirroring their realities through fantastical narratives, encouraging introspection and connection with societal themes [15][19]. Group 4: IP Development and Strategy - The "Fantasy Universe" is positioned as a sustainable and expandable IP, focusing on diverse aesthetic styles and cultural depth to enhance its commercial value [17][19]. - The project explores various content incubation models, aiming to create a comprehensive ecosystem from short film development to long-term operations, enriching the landscape of Chinese original animation [19].