Chinese animated film competes at 'Cannes of animation'

Chinese animated film "Into the Mortal World" has been selected for the feature film competition at the 40th Annecy International Animation Film Festival, where it will contend for top honors alongside acclaimed works from France, Japan, Canada and beyond. 

Directed by talented Chinese filmmaker Zhong Ding, "Into the Mortal World" draws inspiration from the classic Chinese myth of "The Cowherd and the Weaver Girl," also known as Niulang and Zhinyu. The story follows their children, Jin Feng and Yu Lu, who reunite after many years and embark on a poignant journey back to the celestial realm to uncover the truth about their parents. 

Rooted in traditional Chinese culture, the film blends rich mythology with stunning visual storytelling, offering global audiences a glimpse into the beauty of Eastern aesthetics and the rising strength of Chinese animation. 

Often hailed as the "Cannes of animation," the Annecy Festival is one of the world's most prestigious events in the animation industry. Its 40th edition is taking place from June 8 to 14 in the picturesque lakeside town of Annecy, France. (Photos via VCG)