Animated feature "Into the Mortal World" has emerged as a welcome addition to this summer's movie calendar with its high-quality filmmaking, having evolved from an acclaimed student short film project four years ago.

Cast and crew of "Into the Mortal World" appear on stage at the movie's premiere in Beijing, July 10, 2024. [Photo courtesy of Inentertainment] 

The new film, directed by Zhong Ding, who is also an associate professor at the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts, involved over 2,000 animation artists from more than 50 teams and took five years to make. It is inspired by the well-known Chinese myth of the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl. 

Produced by Guangdong-based animation company WinSing Animation, the film presents a creative plot centered around the descendants of the two main characters from the traditional folktale, while incorporating traditional Chinese cultural elements into the story.

The movie originated from a viral short film titled "Fall Into the Mortal World," released four years ago. Directed by Zhong Ding, it was a highly acclaimed graduation project created by 13 students at the Guangzhou Academy of Fine Arts, captivating viewers and attracting entertainment giants like Bilibili and Alibaba Pictures on board.

Reflecting on the film's creative process, Zhong was emotional at the premiere held in Beijing on July 10: "This is our dream — to let more people see the creativity and sincerity of our students and the entire creative team, which is also our motivation for making films."

Discussing the movie's journey from short film to full-length feature, screenwriter Kang Fu said: "In the mortal world, Jin Feng and Yu Lu, the children of the Cowherd and the Weaver Girl, fulfill the unaccomplished mission of the Weaver Girl by experiencing love and warmth. This forms a circle where love and strength flow among family members."

The animated film also incorporates modern narratives. In it, the Weaver Girl is portrayed as capable and independent, a departure from the lovestruck immortal in the original story, reflecting contemporary views on women. Meanwhile, the Cowherd is depicted as simple and kind, ready to sacrifice himself for his family.

A poster for "Into the Mortal World." [Photo courtesy of Alibaba Pictures]

The voice cast also took to the stage to share some behind-the-scenes stories and insights. Fu Bowen, one of the voice artists in the movie, said: "We are very happy to bring laughter to everyone. Each member from the cast and crew has made contributions, big or small, to the film, just like stars. You may not see each one clearly, but every blink we make is for your happiness."

The film will also be released in Cantonese, with the voice cast coming from Hong Kong-based Television Broadcasts Limited. 

"Into the Mortal World" will hit theaters nationwide on July 12, with many industry insiders and experts predicting it will be a dark horse at the box office this summer.

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