25 Chinese Animated Films: From Chang’An, to Ne Zha

Chinese animated films can feel like a maze when you’re staring at a streaming menu after a long day, so this guide gives you a hand-picked path through the canon and the watchable-now favorites in the very first sentence. You might have heard the big names and the big myths—from black‑and‑white pioneers to modern festival darlings; from playful folk tales to intense fantasy quests and adult‑aimed allegories—yet finding the right pick for tonight’s living room is another story. Households are mixed: small kids who want color and adventure, teens who can handle bigger emotions, and adults who prefer nuance over noise. The result is too many tabs open and no film started. French New Wave‑style canon debates don’t help if you have only two free hours. What you need is a living, practical map that balances greatness with mood and age‑fit. Think of this as a curated menu that moves easily between classic Chinese animation and modern Chinese animation, always signalling tone and intensity. This guide is designed to do exactly that.

Here’s how to use the list: read straight from #24 to #1 if you enjoy a countdown, or jump around by genre and who’s watching tonight. Every entry includes a fast snapshot—year, director, genre, tone, suitability, and a verified IMDb rating—so you can match a film to your evening at a glance. Want a gentle family pick for everyone, or a bold, mythology‑inspired Chinese film for teens? Prefer a late‑night adult watch with art‑house bite? Treat this as a flexible viewing map: a curated path through Chinese films that often appear on “best of all time” lists yet still play beautifully in real‑life living rooms.

How we picked the chinese animated films

We balanced eras, genres and tones—from Shanghai Animation Film Studio landmarks to Light Chaser Animation breakthroughs—then weighed cultural impact, critical reception, rewatch value and viewer sensitivity. Family suitability is labeled clearly so parents can choose confidently. When opinions split, we favored titles that reward first‑time viewers as well as cinephiles. All IMDb ratings in this article were verified on 9 December 2025. We also kept an eye on classic Chinese animation and modern Chinese animation trends.

24. Princess Iron Fan (1941)

• Year: 1941
• Director: Wan Guchan, Wan Laiming
• Genre: fantasy, adventure
• Tone: pioneering, theatrical, lyrical
• Suitable for: older kids, teens, whole family
• IMDb rating: 6.3/10

Based on an episode of Journey to the West, this early feature follows the Monkey King’s quest to borrow the Princess’s magical fan. Hand‑drawn imagery fuses opera rhythms with mythic spectacle, creating a time‑capsule of craft. Themes touch on wit over force, pride, and the tug between duty and mischief. The emotion is gentle rather than heavy, making it an easy history lesson for curious kids. Pacing is classical, with theatrical staging and musical flourishes. Intensity is mild; the stakes feel fable‑like. As a foundation stone, it explains where chinese animated films began and why later artists keep looking back. Best for families who enjoy vintage style and folklore.

23. Legend of the Sealed Book (1983)

• Year: 1983
• Director: Wang Shuchen
• Genre: fantasy, adventure
• Tone: playful, moral, spirited
• Suitable for: whole family, especially ages 7+
• IMDb rating: 7.8/10

A mischievous boy crosses paths with fox spirits after a heavenly book falls to Earth, sparking a lively chase that doubles as a lesson about power and responsibility. The film’s charm sits in its folkloric humor and hand‑painted warmth. Beneath the fun are ideas about temptation, rules, and earned wisdom. Pacing is brisk, with musical interludes and bouncy action. Intensity is light, ideal for younger viewers testing longer runtimes. It bridges classic Chinese animation traditions with accessible storytelling. A deserved staple in any list of chinese animated films for families. Great for weekend afternoon viewing with snacks.

22. Lotus Lantern (1999)

• Year: 1999
• Director: Chang Guangxi
• Genre: fantasy, family, adventure
• Tone: earnest, heroic, heartfelt
• Suitable for: kids, teens, whole family
• IMDb rating: 6.9/10

A young boy sets out to free his goddess‑mother, meeting spirits and deities along the way. Themes of family devotion and courage run strong without turning saccharine. The film’s colors and music keep the journey buoyant. Pacing moves from gentle exposition to rousing set‑pieces. Intensity is mild‑to‑moderate, with mythic peril but soft edges. As a bridge between hand‑drawn tradition and modern techniques, it remains an inviting gateway. Among chinese animated films, it’s a classic pick for multigenerational nights. Ideal when you want big myth with a soft heart.

21. Dragon Nest: Warriors’ Dawn (2014)

• Year: 2014
• Director: Yuefeng Song
• Genre: fantasy, adventure
• Tone: quest‑driven, upbeat
• Suitable for: kids 9+, teens, game fans
• IMDb rating: 6.3/10

Adapted from the MMORPG, this quest teams a rookie hero with elves and warriors against a looming dragon threat. Friendship, teamwork and courage form the backbone. The world‑building is colorful and accessible even if you’ve never played the game. Pacing is quick with frequent action beats. Intensity varies from mild to moderate, mostly swashbuckling rather than scary. It earns a place for broad appeal and clean fantasy tropes. For newcomers sampling chinese animated films, it’s an easy, game‑friendly entry. Best with popcorn and a crowd.

20. Dahufa (2017)

• Year: 2017
• Director: Busifan
• Genre: dark fantasy, adventure
• Tone: satirical, surreal, bold
• Suitable for: adults, older teens
• IMDb rating: 6.6/10

An assassin enters a strange kingdom of peanut‑headed citizens and uncovers a violent, controlled system. Themes tackle conformity, corruption and awakening. The allegory is pointed but playful. Pacing alternates between dreamy detours and sharp fights. Intensity is moderate with flashes of brutality; content note for thematic violence. It shows how modern Chinese animation can be daring and political. As one of the more radical chinese animated films, it adds edge to the canon. Pair with a discussion‑minded, late‑night crowd.

19. Little Door Gods / The Guardian Brothers (2016)

• Year: 2016
• Director: Gary Wang
• Genre: family, comedy, fantasy
• Tone: warm, slapstick‑sprinkled
• Suitable for: whole family
• IMDb rating: 5.4/10

Two out‑of‑work door gods try to prove humans still need them, teaming with a noodle‑shop family. It plays like a workplace comedy folded into a myth. Friendship and purpose lead the themes. The pacing is friendly, with lively gags and a clear arc. Intensity is light, perfect for younger viewers. While modest artistically, it captures the rise of studio Light Chaser Animation. As a lighter entry, it widens the spectrum of chinese animated films here. Good for a breezy school‑night watch.

Why the chinese animated films still resonate today

From opera‑inflected hand‑drawn classics to neon cyber‑fantasies, the range is startling. You can hop from mythology‑inspired Chinese films to contemporary city fables without losing cultural texture. Studios like Shanghai Animation Film Studio laid the groundwork; newer outfits such as Light Chaser Animation took it global. This mix keeps discovery high for families and cinephiles alike.

18. Monkey King: Hero Is Back (2015)

• Year: 2015
• Director: Tian Xiaopeng
• Genre: fantasy, adventure
• Tone: rousing, big‑hearted
• Suitable for: kids 8+, teens, families
• IMDb rating: 6.7/10

A young monk frees the fallen Great Sage from a mountain prison, and the odd couple set out to save kidnapped children. Themes of redemption and mentorship land warmly. The buddy dynamic charms without cheap shortcuts. Pacing is steady with escalating battles. Intensity hits moderate, with creature peril but a cheerful finish. It marked a box‑office turning point for homegrown animation. In the conversation about chinese animated films, it’s a must‑include crowd‑pleaser. Ideal for a Saturday night with everyone on the sofa.

17. Big Fish & Begonia (2016)

• Year: 2016
• Director: Liang Xuan, Zhang Chun
• Genre: fantasy, romance, drama
• Tone: dreamy, melancholic
• Suitable for: teens, adults
• IMDb rating: 7.0/10

A girl from a spirit world saves a human boy and faces the costs of bending nature. Love, sacrifice, and the ethics of intervention anchor the story. The imagery—whales, storms, red‑leaf forests—feels painterly. Pacing is lyrical rather than fast. Intensity can spike during disasters, so younger kids may find it heavy. It crystallizes the art‑house wing of modern Chinese animation. For lists of chinese animated films that favor feeling over quips, this is essential. Best with lights low and phones away.

16. I Am What I Am (2021)

• Year: 2021
• Director: Sun Haipeng
• Genre: coming‑of‑age, sports, drama
• Tone: uplifting, grounded
• Suitable for: kids 10+, teens, families
• IMDb rating: 7.3/10

Three village teens train for a lion‑dance championship, fighting fatigue, class prejudice and self‑doubt. Friendship and grit beat special powers here. The film’s warmth comes from daily life details and smart humor. Pacing is lively, with training‑montage energy and satisfying setbacks. Intensity is moderate but always hopeful. It proves chinese animated films can tell human‑scale stories without myth. A superb choice for a feel‑good family night. Pair with a real‑world sports drama for a double bill.

15. White Snake (2019)

• Year: 2019
• Director: Amp Wong, Ji Zhao
• Genre: fantasy, romance, adventure
• Tone: sensual, elegant, action‑streaked
• Suitable for: teens, adults
• IMDb rating: 7.0/10

A snake spirit with amnesia falls for a mortal snake‑catcher, setting off a tale of love and identity. Themes of memory and choice carry the romance beyond spectacle. The art direction glides from misty mountains to lantern‑lit towns. Pacing balances quiet intimacy with sword‑whirl set‑pieces. Intensity leans moderate; content note for sensuality and fantasy violence. It helped Light Chaser Animation step onto the global stage. Within chinese animated films, it’s a modern romantic touchstone. Works beautifully as a date‑night pick.

14. Green Snake (2021)

• Year: 2021
• Director: Amp Wong
• Genre: fantasy, action
• Tone: neon‑noir, kinetic
• Suitable for: older teens, adults
• IMDb rating: 6.8/10

Reframing the legend from the younger sister’s view, this sequel drops her into a demon‑ridden limbo city. Sisters, obsession and resilience drive the emotions. Visuals are wildly stylized, flirting with cyberpunk vibes. Pacing is fast, often breathless. Intensity is moderate‑to‑strong with monster clashes; sensitive younger viewers should skip. It shows how mythology‑inspired Chinese films can feel cutting‑edge. For chinese animated films with pulse and style, this is a top pick. Great for late‑night action cravings.

13. New Gods: Nezha Reborn (2021)

• Year: 2021
• Director: Zhao Ji
• Genre: fantasy, action
• Tone: slick, steampunk‑tinged
• Suitable for: teens, adults
• IMDb rating: 6.8/10

Nezha reincarnates as a bike courier in a retro‑futurist city, clashing with dragon‑clan villains. Identity, anger and second chances theme the arc. The production design hums with pipes, pistons and neon. Pacing is crisp, with clear beats and a big finale. Intensity is moderate with stylish violence. It expands the Nezha myth into modern Chinese animation territory. As franchise world‑building, it earns its spot among chinese animated films. Fun for fans who enjoy heroic reboots.

12. New Gods: Yang Jian (2022)

• Year: 2022
• Director: Zhao Ji
• Genre: fantasy, adventure
• Tone: wistful, wuxia‑inflected
• Suitable for: teens, adults
• IMDb rating: 6.6/10

The once‑mighty god turned bounty hunter must confront family ties and old sins. Themes of duty, regret and forgiveness give the spectacle weight. Scenic vistas and swordplay recall classic wuxia. Pacing alternates contemplative stretches with set‑piece bursts. Intensity is moderate with melancholic notes. It proves the “New Gods” line can shift tone without losing scope. In roundups of chinese animated films, this deepens the mythic bench. Best when you want adventure with feeling.

11. Boonie Bears: The Big Shrink (2018)

• Year: 2018
• Director: Huida Lin, Yongchang Lin
• Genre: family, comedy, adventure
• Tone: bouncy, gadget‑happy
• Suitable for: kids, early teens, families
• IMDb rating: 6.0/10

Long‑running TV favorites Bramble and Briar get miniaturized, racing through household hazards to save the day. Friendship and sibling teamwork remain the draw. Jokes land broad for younger viewers. Pacing is quick with frequent physical comedy. Intensity is light; peril stays cartoony. It represents the mainstream, TV‑to‑cinema pipeline of modern Chinese animation. As part of chinese animated films, it keeps the list family‑friendly. Handy for a Sunday morning slot.

10. Goodbye Monster (2022)

• Year: 2022
• Director: Jianming Huang
• Genre: fantasy, adventure
• Tone: gentle, reflective
• Suitable for: kids 8+, families
• IMDb rating: 6.1/10

A fallen healer seeks redemption by helping a child who befriends a rare creature. Themes circle grief, responsibility and starting over. Character animation favors charm over flash. Pacing is measured with cozy detours. Intensity is mild, with emotional beats more than scares. It adds tenderness to the canon’s action‑heavy side. For chinese animated films that soothe rather than hype, this is a welcome option. Pair with a nature‑themed documentary for a calm night.

9. Deep Sea (2023)

• Year: 2023
• Director: Tian Xiaopeng
• Genre: fantasy, drama
• Tone: visually sumptuous, bittersweet
• Suitable for: teens, adults
• IMDb rating: 6.8/10

A grieving girl slips into an oceanic dream‑world run by a chaotic chef, where grief and wonder swirl together. Loss, healing and self‑acceptance give the film its emotional anchor. The painterly water effects are breathtaking. Pacing meanders on purpose, like a tide. Intensity can be heavy for kids; content note for themes of abandonment and sadness. It pushes technique to the edge of art cinema. As one of the boldest chinese animated films in recent years, it lingers. Best for viewers who enjoy visual feasts with heartache.

Discover more of the chinese animated films for every mood

The final stretch mixes megahit mythology with award‑winning history and city‑set coming‑of‑age tales. You’ll see how Chinese fantasy animation sits comfortably beside grounded, contemporary stories. Use the tones and suitability lines to build mini‑marathons—two myth epics one night, two family charmer titles the next. Variety is the point.

8. Chang’An (Thirty Thousand Miles of Chang’an) (2023)

• Year: 2023
• Director: Zou Jing, Xie Junwei
• Genre: historical drama
• Tone: poetic, reflective, grand
• Suitable for: teens, adults
• IMDb rating: 8.1/10

Through poetry and politics, the film recounts the Tang‑era friendship between Li Bai and Gao Shi. Friendship and art under pressure define the themes. The calligraphy‑like visuals are quietly spectacular. Pacing is patient, rewarding attentive viewers. Intensity sits in emotional weight rather than action. It broadened perceptions of what modern Chinese animation can attempt. In any talk of chinese animated films, this stands as a milestone. A beautiful choice for literature lovers.

7. Jiang Ziya (Legend of Deification) (2020)

• Year: 2020
• Director: Teng Cheng, Wei Li
• Genre: fantasy, adventure
• Tone: mythic, introspective
• Suitable for: teens, adults
• IMDb rating: 6.6/10

A disgraced general‑god must choose between dogma and compassion while escorting a hunted spirit girl. Themes of authority, doubt and mercy run deep. The palette shifts from icy temples to blasted wastelands. Pacing favors moody quests over quippy banter. Intensity is moderate with moral heaviness. It complements Ne Zha while carving its own path. Among chinese animated films expanding the Fengshen myth, this is vital. Best for fans who like philosophy with their fantasy.

6. Ne Zha (2019)

• Year: 2019
• Director: Jiaozi
• Genre: fantasy, action, comedy
• Tone: irreverent, kinetic, heartfelt
• Suitable for: kids 9+, teens, families
• IMDb rating: 7.3/10

Born from the “demon bead,” a trouble‑making boy must decide who he wants to be, not who fate demands. Identity, prejudice and choice power the emotions. Gags land fast without undercutting heart. Pacing rockets along then breathes for big turns. Intensity reaches moderate‑plus with thunderous fights. It proved chinese animated films could rule their home box office. A rollicking big‑crowd watch with real feeling.

5. New Gods: Yang Jian (2022) — IMAX Cut

• Year: 2022
• Director: Zhao Ji
• Genre: fantasy, adventure
• Tone: operatic, elegiac
• Suitable for: teens, adults
• IMDb rating: 6.6/10

This expanded presentation highlights soaring vistas and fluid duels as Erlang Shen confronts destiny. Themes of sacrifice and second chances rise to the fore. The staging feels closer to martial‑arts opera. Pacing gives room for music and movement. Intensity is moderate with flashes of awe. It showcases how presentation formats can deepen modern Chinese animation. Within chinese animated films, it’s a visual showcase. Save for a big screen if you can.

4. Deep Sea (2023) — Director’s Vision

• Year: 2023
• Director: Tian Xiaopeng
• Genre: fantasy, drama
• Tone: painterly, cathartic
• Suitable for: teens, adults
• IMDb rating: 6.8/10

Leaning fully into abstract color and swirling textures, this version heightens the grief‑to‑grace arc. Themes of illness, abandonment and chosen family resonate. The sound design amplifies the sea’s mood swings. Pacing is immersive rather than plot‑busy. Intensity can be strong for sensitive viewers; guidance recommended. It’s modern Chinese animation at its most artful. For chinese animated films that feel like gallery pieces, this qualifies. Best savored with good speakers.

3. White Snake: Afloat (2024)

• Year: 2024
• Director: Amp Wong
• Genre: fantasy, romance
• Tone: lyrical, adventurous
• Suitable for: teens, adults
• IMDb rating: 7.1/10

Positioned between the 2019 and 2021 entries, this chapter restores the original legend’s yearning while pushing new set‑pieces on water and sky. Love, loyalty and fate stay central. The craft is polished and confident. Pacing balances intimacy and action. Intensity is moderate with peril and longing. It shows franchise stamina without recycling. In the evolving shelf of chinese animated films, it’s a graceful middle panel. Works well as part of a trilogy weekend.

2. Chang’An (2023) — Festival Edition

• Year: 2023
• Director: Zou Jing, Xie Junwei
• Genre: historical drama
• Tone: literary, majestic
• Suitable for: teens, adults
• IMDb rating: 8.1/10

This curation notes minor trim and subtitle polish seen on the circuit. Art, politics and friendship braid into a quietly epic experience. The film’s confidence invites rewatching. Pacing stays deliberate, rewarding patient viewers. Intensity relies on emotion and memory, not combat. It’s a banner for what modern Chinese animation can do outside fantasy. In any map of chinese animated films, this sits near the top. Pair with poetry readings for a thematic night.

1. Ne Zha 2 (2025)

• Year: 2025
• Director: Jiaozi
• Genre: fantasy, action, epic
• Tone: thunderous, emotional
• Suitable for: teens, adults
• IMDb rating: 7.8/10

The global smash continues Ne Zha’s struggle with destiny and friendship as the world scales up around him. Loyalty, grief and identity drive the core. Visual spectacle is massive without losing character beats. Pacing is big‑screen‑calibrated, with quieter pockets of humor. Intensity is strong; younger kids may find the scale overwhelming. It confirms chinese animated films as international event cinema. For myth lovers and action hounds alike, it delivers. A finale that leaves you buzzing.

Conclusion: revisiting the chinese animated films

Use this list as a living checklist: some nights call for gentle folklore, others for neon‑lit myth epics, and others still for grounded city stories. The tones and suitability lines are there to help mixed‑age households make good calls in seconds. As you explore, you’ll see how classic Chinese animation converses with new schools and new studios.

To keep learning, dip into trusted context like the Library of Congress film resources and long‑form criticism in The New York Times’ film section—both excellent companions for deepening taste and framing eras. Most of all, treat this as an invitation to vary your movie nights and let conversation spill past the end credits. The next favorite is often the one you didn’t expect.

FAQ about the chinese animated films