Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the resurgence of traditional Chinese ink wash animation, particularly with the upcoming release of the first color ink wash animated feature film, "斑羚飞渡" (Bān líng fēi dù), which is expected to captivate audiences with its unique visual style that combines traditional aesthetics with modern technology [1] Group 1: Industry Insights - In 2025, the Chinese animation film box office is projected to reach a new high, indicating a growing market for animated films in China [1] - The film "浪浪山小妖怪" (Làng làng shān xiǎo yāo guài) utilizes traditional ink painting techniques alongside modern lighting effects, creating a distinctive visual experience that resonates with audiences [1] - The production of ink wash animation has historically been time-consuming, with some short clips taking 4 to 5 years to complete due to the intricate layering required [1] Group 2: Technological Advancements - Modern technology, particularly hand-drawing software, has significantly reduced the time required to produce ink wash animation, allowing for the completion of what previously took one to two months in just one to one and a half days [1] - The advancements in animation technology are making it feasible to revive and innovate traditional art forms, thus expanding the potential for future projects in this genre [1]

Core Insights - The Chinese film industry achieved a remarkable box office of over 51.832 billion yuan in 2025, with animated films contributing over 25 billion yuan, marking the highest box office for animation in Chinese history [1] - "Nezha: Birth of the Demon Child" set a new global box office record for animated films, while "Wang Wang Mountain Little Monster" broke the domestic box office record for 2D animation [1] Group 1: Animation Industry Growth - The success of "Wang Wang Mountain Little Monster" revitalized the summer of 2025, showcasing a strong Chinese aesthetic that resonated with audiences [3] - The Shanghai Animation Film Studio has leveraged decades of tradition and innovation, utilizing modern technology and hand-drawn software to enhance the creation of Chinese-style animation [6] - The production time for animation has significantly decreased, with one shot that previously took one to two months now completed in about one to one and a half days [10] Group 2: Technological Advancements - The first color ink wash animated feature, "Banshan Feidu," is set to be released soon, which would traditionally require at least 20 years to produce using conventional methods [15] - The studio has faced challenges in the past, including financial difficulties, but government policies since 2004 have provided support through tax reductions, talent development, and funding for domestic animation [18][19] Group 3: Cultural and Artistic Identity - The studio emphasizes the importance of maintaining a Chinese aesthetic in animation, drawing from unique techniques like ink wash and paper-cutting, as well as rich storytelling from Chinese mythology and history [25] - The "old and new" mentorship model at the Shanghai Animation Film Studio has allowed for the continuation and evolution of the Chinese animation school, blending traditional ideas with modern innovations [28] Group 4: Revenue Diversification - The animation industry is shifting from a reliance on box office revenue to a multi-channel "IP ecosystem recovery" model, which includes merchandise sales, crowdfunding, and licensing [40] - "Wang Wang Mountain Little Monster" has launched over 800 merchandise items, generating significant sales and contributing to a broader consumer market [42] Group 5: International Recognition - "Ran Bi Wa" was selected for the Berlin International Film Festival, marking a significant achievement for the Shanghai Animation Film Studio and highlighting the potential for Chinese animated features on the global stage [34][35] - The film's innovative approach, incorporating various animation styles, has garnered both interest and support from veteran artists, indicating a positive trend towards experimental animation [37] Group 6: Cultural Confidence - The success of the animation industry reflects a renewed recognition and appreciation for Chinese culture, with a box office of 25 billion yuan symbolizing a cultural renaissance [46] - The industry is encouraged to continue exploring deep cultural roots while also expanding its reach globally, leveraging cultural "soft power" to enhance the film industry's development [46]