Metamorphosis: The Transformation and Industrialization of Chinese Animation (1980-2015)

From The Three Monks and Calabash Brothers to Lotus Lantern and Monkey King: Hero Is Back, how has Chinese animation evolved over the more than thirty years since the reform and opening-up? Transitioning from a planned system to industrial operation, this history is an interplay of challenges and breakthroughs. It marks a critical phase in which Chinese animation shifted from artistic expression to cultural industry, rebuilding audience confidence along the way.

Hosted by Cao Xiaohui, Vice Dean of the China Animation Research Institute at Beijing Film Academy and a renowned animation director, this lecture titled “Metamorphosis” systematically traces the development trajectory of Chinese animation from 1980 to 2015. It will take you into a lesser-known yet crucial chapter of animation history.  Drawing on rich historical materials and incisive analysis, Cao will weave together period context, policy shifts, landmark works and creative institutions to reconstruct the full picture of how Chinese animation struggled, transformed and broke through in an era of violent change.