The Chinese animation industry has now reached the level of aesthetic quality befitting of the country's vibrant culture, according to an Oscar judge based in the United States. After watching the Chinese animated blockbuster "Ne Zha 2" twice, Ellen Eliasoph said the movie is a great piece combining various outstanding elements in China's traditional culture.
"I specifically invited my cooperation partner, an animation director, to watch the movie with me. She couldn't stop laughing when watching the film and was amazed by how the film weaves together so many layers, which we think reflects 'aesthetics.' The movie is rich in cultural elements from China's 5,000 years of history, including stories, paintings, diverse characters of various forms, emotions, and even philosophical concepts, all of which can be found within the film," said Eliasoph in an interview with China Central Television (CCTV) in Chinese language.
"She truly thinks that the movie doesn't just present stunning visual effects, but is also emotional. She said she could feel the deep friendship between the characters and their love and respect for their parents. Although the story revolves around Chinese family virtues, she believes the message it conveys could strongly resonate with international audiences. She thinks that everyone could understand the film and fall in love with these characters," she said.
In the interview, Eliasoph said Chinese animated films have been rediscovering their uniqueness in recent years and expressed her desire to take Chinese culture to the rest of the world.
"I have always wanted to take Chinese culture to the world, sharing everything I see and know across various fields. It's fascinating that the movie incorporates the style of traditional Chinese ink painting while mastering the interaction of colors. Every scene is vibrant, but carefully planned, beautiful, and aesthetic. The movie is also highly innovative, especially in its action sequences. Every move is fresh and inventive, with characters fighting in new ways and using new weapons. I see the creativity of the Chinese people reflected in 'Ne Zha 2.' After watching recent Chinese animations over the years, I believe Chinese animation has truly found the unique aesthetic it should have," she said.
Based on a 16th-century Chinese mythology with a bold reinterpretation, "Ne Zha 2" has captivated global audiences with its stunning visuals, well-crafted storytelling, and profound cultural heritage.
The film has shattered box office records since its launch in late January.
Data shows it has become the first non-Hollywood film to exceed 2 billion U.S. dollars in global earnings.
Chinese animation has found aesthetics it should have: Oscar judge
Chinese animation has found aesthetics it should have: Oscar judge
Chinese animation has found aesthetics it should have: Oscar judge
John Lee, chief executive of China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), announced on Friday that an independent committee will have nine months to investigate the Wang Fuk Court fire that occurred in late November.
The fire, which erupted on November 26 in Tai Po, has claimed 160 lives as of 16:00 Tuesday, with six people still reported missing, according to authorities.
At a press conference, Lee said the committee will be led by Judge David Lok, chairman of the Electoral Affairs Commission, and will also include Legislative Council Finance Committee Chairman Chan Kin-por and outgoing MTR Corporation Chairman Rex Auyeung Pak-kuen.
"Nine months is a very challenging time indeed, but I want to solve the problem as quickly as possible. So I want to give what I regard as a time frame -- realistic -- provided the independent committee is given sufficient means to maneuver, while ensuring the examination is just. They can streamline procedure and be given more flexibility so that they can finish their work within the nine months. And I also have given them a reserve power. That is, if the independent committee considers, by examining all these complicated issues, there may be one which they think, by exercising the powers that is given to a statutory commissioner of inquiry, will help them complete their work, then I'm very willing to consider a recommendation by the independent commission to seek appointing them as the commission of inquiry," Lee said.
Lee noted that the committee's investigation will focus on the causes and circumstances of the fire, and whether systemic issues exist in large-scale building management and renovation projects.
The committee will also examine whether the current regulations and penalties are sufficient in these two areas and will make relevant recommendations. The investigation reports are expected to be made public.
Speaking to reporters on Friday, David Lok stressed the need for fairness and impartiality in the investigation, saying that he would refrain from commenting on the investigation until the committee completes its work.
"During this period, I hope everyone understands that although this is a committee, I am leading this work in my capacity as a judge. Judges must also adhere to certain professional principles, including being fair and impartial. We need to conduct rational analysis based on facts before making any factual judgments or recommendations; we cannot be emotional. Furthermore, we cannot have a pre-established position. In fact, before every judge hears a case, we should ideally start with a blank slate and cannot have a predetermined stance," said Lok.
"So today, if you ask me for my views on certain matters or how we will conduct the investigation, I’m afraid I won't be able to answer as freely as I could when I was at the Electoral Affairs Commission. But I hope all media friends and residents understand that I do not wish to evade questions; it is simply that some questions at this stage are inappropriate for the committee chair to answer. Therefore, during the investigation, I do not expect to speak with you again until our work is completed," he said.
Investigation into Tai Po fire to conclude within nine months: HKSAR chief executive
