Chongqing International Animation Film Week 2026: over 500 submissions from around the world, 40 industry giants including Disney and Universal, and jury chair Rob Minkoff (The Lion King)
The five‑day event at the Yongchuan technology studio blends nostalgia and futurism. Artificial intelligence took audiences on a journey through a century of Chinese animation. The main goal is to build a bridge between Chinese masterpieces and the global market.
As reported by CCTV+, the Chongqing International Animation Film Week 2026 opened on Tuesday, attracting more than 500 submissions from around the world. This year's event is not just a celebration of storytelling, but a vivid demonstration of how cutting‑edge technologies are transforming the future of animation.
The opening ceremony at the Yongchuan technology studio (Chongqing, southwest China) combined nostalgic references with a futuristic vision. Using advanced AI technologies, it took audiences on a journey through a century of Chinese animation.
The international jury is chaired by legendary Hollywood director Rob Minkoff, best known for directing The Lion King. Minkoff noted the rapid rise of Chinese cinema: "This year there were so many different examples of storytelling styles and visual styles. The examples of Chinese animation and storytelling were just exceptional, very diverse. I hope more Chinese films can go beyond China and export Chinese culture to the rest of the world. With new technologies, I think that will become even more possible."
Beyond the competition, the five‑day event includes an exhibition showcasing the latest achievements in animation technology and creative design, as well as public screenings. The event has attracted more than 40 industry giants, including Walt Disney and Universal.
Yin Hong, Vice Chair of the China Film家协会 (China Film Association), said: "As China's first international platform dedicated to feature‑length animated films, it brings together resources for industry exchange and learning. On the other hand, it serves as a wonderful window, bringing the world's best animation to China and helping Chinese masterpieces go global."
Animation has always been the universal language of childhood. But today, as artificial intelligence changes the way we draw and old tales find new voices, the animated film becomes a bridge between cultures. When a Hollywood legend speaks of the diversity of Chinese animation, and Disney sits in the same hall as local studios, more than a festival is born. A dialogue is born — one in which every frame has a chance to circle the globe.
