29 September 2025
For the series of “Chinese Mythology in the Digital Age”
On September 29, 2025, RIDCH successfully hosted a special event with film producer Raman Hui, as part of the research project, Chinese Mythology in the Digital Age. This event featured renowned animation director Raman Hui, who offered valuable insights into the integration of Chinese mythology and Kung fu elements in his animated films.
During the session, Director Raman Hui emphasized the importance of preserving the distinctiveness of Chinese mythological elements in animation, cautioning against diluting these characteristics to solely cater to Western markets. He highlighted the growing global appreciation for Chinese culture over recent decades, noting that Western audiences are increasingly receptive to narratives rooted in Chinese philosophy and aesthetics. Hui also pointed out the pivotal role of digital platforms, such as streaming and other new media platforms, in amplifying the global reach of Chinese mythological and other cultural themes. These platforms enable creators to share representations of Chinese heritage with a worldwide audience.
On the incorporation of Kung fu elements, Hui underscored his team's dedication to achieving an authentic Kung fu effect, even in the medium of animation. His team worked diligently to capture the essence, spirit, and physicality of Kung fu, ensuring that movements and aesthetics remain authentic to the martial art's cultural roots. He acknowledged the challenges of envisioning the future evolution of Kung fu in animated films, emphasizing that sustained innovation will require collaborative efforts from current and future generations of creators.
Addressing students majoring in animation, Hui offered practical and inspiring advice. He emphasized that a genuine passion for animation is essential, urging students to prioritize quality over quantity or length in their work. He cautioned that while AI tools have become powerful, they have not yet perfected the nuanced design of animations, making the role of human creativity irreplaceable in this field.
