AI-animated panda tale centers on reunion theme

The Reunion Journey, China's first animated film created entirely using artificial intelligence technology, is set for release on Feb 28.

Inspired by Tuan Tuan and Yuan Yuan, a pair of giant pandas gifted by the Chinese mainland to Taiwan, the film follows panda siblings Tuan Zai and his younger sister Yuan Niu as they overcome a series of challenges and hardships before finally reuniting.

Speaking at a promotional event in Beijing on Tuesday, Ma Xiaoguang, deputy head of the Association for Relations Across the Taiwan Strait, said the two characters are rendered with vivid detail through the use of AI technology, with every frame reflecting distinct Eastern aesthetics.

Through its emotional core of "separation, seeking family, and ultimate reunion", Ma added, the film highlights the traditional values of unity and self-reliance, while also expressing a broader aspiration for "peace, development, exchange, and cooperation".

Li Guanyu, the film's chief creator, explained that although AI is merely a tool for artistic expression, advancing technology is enabling increasingly sophisticated visual effects. "Technology is improving, but human emotion will not disappear because of technological development," Li said, expressing confidence that innovation will draw more creative talent to the industry.

According to the producers, a part of the movie's box office revenue will be donated to public welfare initiatives supporting national reunification.