What happens when ancient legends meet cutting-edge animation? Sichuan University instructor Li Wenyu is answering that question with A Story About Fire (Ran Bi Wa), a Berlinale-selected film breathing new life into Qiang culture through mesmerizing ink-wash artistry. 🌊🔥
Li’s journey began as a passion project during his Peking University days, where he studied under Professor Ma Kexuan – a guardian of traditional Chinese ink-wash techniques from the legendary Shanghai Animation Film Studio. "Animation isn’t just movement," Li tells us, "it’s how we make centuries-old stories dance for Gen Z."
The film’s swirling brushstrokes and ethereal landscapes are more than pretty visuals – they’re a cultural bridge. By reimagining Qiang mythology through this distinctly Chinese art form, Li creates what he calls "a TikTok-era dialogue with our ancestors" that’s captivating global film festivals.
For students of art history and anime fans alike, this project proves ancient techniques can still spark fresh magic. As streaming platforms hungry for diverse content take notice, Li’s work might just inspire a new wave of culturally-rooted animation. 🎥🌏
