Has everyone revisited Monkey King: Hero Is Back recently? This animated film is undoubtedly a milestone in domestic 3D animation.
I remember when it first came out, many people had little hope for the “Great Sage” IP. Yet, the interactions between Jiang Liuer and Sun Wukong instantly struck a chord, bringing tears to many eyes. Especially the scene where the Great Sage breaks through the seal and dons his armor again—it was incredibly inspiring and remains a classic to this day.
While preserving the essence of the original work, the film endowed the characters with a more modern emotional core. The Great Sage is no longer an omnipotent deity but a hero who experiences confusion and pain before rediscovering his original intention. This “humanization” made the characters feel more three-dimensional.
The visual presentation is also commendable, perfectly blending the ink-wash landscape style with fluid action design. The fight scenes are visceral and impactful. Although there has been some debate over the pacing of the plot, the overall execution was top-tier for its time.
Looking back now, it feels more like a love letter to all Chinese animators, proving that with dedication, we too can create world-class works.
What moment of the Great Sage moved you the most? Feel free to share your thoughts below!
The animation quality in this film is truly stunning, especially in the fight scenes, where the fluidity and impact have reached new heights for domestic 3D animation.
The moment the Great Sage broke free from his seal, I was immediately moved to tears. That explosion after suppression perfectly embodied the theme of “Return.”
The character Jiang Li’er is utterly endearing. His innocence forms a striking contrast with the weathered沧桑 of Dasheng, and the emotional buildup is spot-on.
While the plot structure is fairly traditional, the character development is highly successful. The Great Sage is no longer a distant, aloof deity, but a hero with flesh and blood.
Revisiting the film reveals many subtle details, such as the changes in the Great Sage’s gaze. The director truly put a lot of thought into character psychological portrayal.
I highly recommend that those who haven’t seen it yet go and buy a ticket. It’s not just for children; it’s also for all grown-ups who still hold onto their dreams.