The Russian version of the poster for Master of Ji Gong. [Photo provided to ehangzhou.gov.cn]

China and Russia recently signed a joint declaration to deepen their comprehensive strategic partnership on the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. The declaration emphasized the promotion of cooperation in the film industry. In this context, the Zhejiang-produced animated film Master of Ji Gong has already made significant strides.

The film, directed by Liu Zhijiang, premiered in Russia on Nov 9 of last year on over 500 big screens. It is set to be released in several other countries which are part of the Commonwealth of Independent States, including Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, Abkhazia, South Ossetia, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan, Belarus, Moldova, Russia, Kazakhstan, and Kyrgyzstan. Prior to this, the film's distribution rights had been sold to the United States, Canada, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Vietnam, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania.

Since the 2015 release of Monkey King: Hero is Back, which garnered widespread attention, Chinese animated films have consistently performed well both domestically and internationally. This trend underscores the growing market for Chinese animation abroad and the increasing appreciation from international audiences and critics.

Many Chinese animated films draw on traditional Chinese culture and values, making their global reach particularly meaningful. The films not only showcase the richness of Chinese culture but also allow international audiences to experience unique Chinese narratives.

"I'm truly delighted and proud to see more Chinese animated films gaining international recognition," said Liu Zhijiang. "It's an opportunity for the world to witness the current level of Chinese animation and appreciate our rich traditional stories. Moreover, the films allow overseas Chinese to connect with their homeland."

Editor: Cheng Dengyu