In an interview with CGTN's Zhang Xiaohe, French film producer Ron Dyens, who is on the animation jury at the 12th Silk Road International Film Festival, shared his insights on how great stories transcend borders and resonate with global audiences.

Universal power of storytelling

Dyens emphasized that strong storytelling speaks to shared human experiences. "Good stories, whether in Europe, China or Africa, connect us emotionally," he explained. 

Dyens is the founder of Sacrebleu Productions, known for producing animated short films and features that have won numerous awards, including a Golden Globe for animated film "Flow" and the prestigious Palme d'Or at Cannes for the animated short film "Barking Island." For Dyens, animation is a powerful vehicle for global communication.

Animation and cultural exchange

As a jury member at the 12th Silk Road International Film Festival, Dyens praised the role of animation in cultural exchange. He said animation allows filmmakers to explore complex cultural narratives while maintaining emotional truths that resonate universally, and that it is a medium that brings diverse voices together, creating a space for dialogue.

Dyens noted that while films may be rooted in specific cultures, their core emotional themes, like love and loss, can connect audiences across different backgrounds.

Setting high standards in jury

In his role as a jury member, Dyens maintains high standards for storytelling. "Technique matters, but the emotional heart of a film is what truly counts," he explained. His focus is on selecting films that don't just entertain but also move and inspire audiences – whether they are animated or live-action.