The Legend of Hei

Dating back to 2011, the mysterious independent producer MTJJ created the character of Luo Xiao-Hei and animated TV series as well. With stick figure style yet marvelous storyline and profound worldview, the series captured millions of viewers and considered to be the shining star of domestic animation. Though facing difficulties of fund and staff shortages, MTJJ never gave up and keep on serializing to 28 short episodes, about 2 hours in total, till this day with the help of a team consists of few people. That's why the 100 mins long 2D animated film with the same name set off a fan carnival this summer. Not only the smooth painting style can be compared to world famous Studio Ghibli and Kyoto Animation, the intimate growing up tale also touched the innermost feelings of audiences, let along Easter eggs hidden everywhere and homage paying to classics. Last but not least, the film portraits a true Chinese style atmosphere with a glimpse of ancient and modern China together. The movie do have a relatively slow pacing of daily life stories In the first half which may cause some audience fell a little bit dull. Whatever the flaws, it still resembles a milestone of modern day 2D Chinese animated films

Rewatching the film, I noticed a small detail that speaks volumes: Xiao Hei's scarf. At first, it's knotted haphazardly, as if tied in a hurry by a child still learning to care for himself. But as the story unfolds, frame by frame, it grows neater-until by the end, it lies smooth, tucked neatly under his collar.

That change isn't an accident. It's Wu Xian, in those quiet, unspoken moments, reaching over to adjust the fabric, his movements careful but unobtrusive. No speeches about "growing up," no grand declarations of progress. Just a scarf, slowly, gently, being made right.

This is the film's quiet brilliance. Xiao Hei's growth isn't shouted-it's stitched into these small acts: a properly tied scarf, a steadier gaze, a smile that comes a little easier. It's a reminder that the most meaningful changes aren't announced. They're lived, in the gaps between words, where trust and care take root. And that, far more than any slogan, is what lingers.

I was absolutely amazed by the quality of this movie. The story is touching and really funny, and the battles are spectacular. Must watch! Especially for fans of the Avatar: the last Airbender series, who are looking for a similar experience.

This is a big effort in 2D animation for China, trying very hard to deliver a product that could be at the same time exciting and profound and that has the look of a blockbuster Japanese Anime, more specifically the Studio Ghibli ones. And the end result manages to work in some occasions and to look quite the part, but still suffers from some pacing problems and a lack of emotional focus at times. Also, the way the story develops ends up being quite conventional, but for the most part it's an enjoyable film.

Already made it to my Top 10 Fav Anime List for sure! What an AMAZING world to be immersed in! Turn up those speakers too because the sound is super sweet. SO powerful. You can literally FEEL the artists' creative intent especially with the INTENSE battle scenes, camera angle shifts, and the SPEED. WOW! Seriously buying this movie in HDX on VUDU right NOW. Unforgettable movie.