The 2026 Chongqing International Animation Film Week, guided by China Media Group and the Chongqing Municipal Government, and hosted by the Chongqing Film Bureau, the Yongchuan District Government, and the Chongqing Station of China Media Group, will take place from June 9 to 13 in Yongchuan District, Chongqing.

This edition of the Animation Film Week, themed “Infinite Wisdom, Brilliant Visions,” aims to establish an international animation exchange platform and promote the high-quality development of China’s animation film industry.

The event includes an opening ceremony, the “Golden Mountain Tea” honorary recommendations, academic seminars and masterclasses, an animation creativity and technology exhibition, an industry matchmaking and signing ceremony, an animation film themed market, screenings of outstanding animated works, and a “One Movie Ticket to Explore the City” film consumption season, covering professional guidance, industry empowerment, and public participation.

The opening ceremony will be held on the evening of June 9 at Phase 2 of the Chongqing Yongchun Technology Studio. According to organizers, the ceremony will feature a world animation film concert and a Chinese animation film carnival, weaving classic animation melodies into a century-long tapestry of Chinese animation. It will innovatively integrate water stages, AI imagery, and embodied intelligence to create a “Realm of Animation Wonders,” showcasing the trend of “animation film + technology innovation” with an international style, animation beauty, and Chongqing flavor.

The “Golden Mountain Tea” honorary recommendations, a core part of the event, include 4 categories and 10 honors. A total of 501 works from countries such as the United States, France, the United Kingdom, Russia, Spain, Australia, and Brazil were submitted globally, with 45 works shortlisted for the honors. The jury chair is Rob Minkoff, director of “The Lion King.” The final evaluation will take place from June 6 to 9 in Yongchuan, Chongqing, with results announced at the closing ceremony on the evening of June 12.

Chongqing has a deep cultural heritage in film and television, with over 500 productions filmed there. In recent years, the city has accelerated the development of a systematic film industry ecosystem, focusing on the Western Science and Technology Film Studio as a hub for virtual production and post-production, achieving a shift from “filming in Chongqing” to “filming by Chongqing.” Yongchuan District, the host location, features leading domestic virtual studios and China’s first AI full-chain intelligent filming comprehensive scene, supporting over 140 films and TV series, including “Ne Zha: The Devil’s Child Rises” and “Wild Times.”

During the Animation Film Week, the local area will simultaneously host a public film carnival.

A “One Movie Ticket to Explore the City” consumption season will be launched, offering multiple discounts in collaboration with scenic spots, hotels, and shopping areas.

The animation film themed market will offer experiences such as voice actor interactions and Chinese animation exhibitions.

The “Chasing Light Dreams” screening will feature nearly 40 classic domestic and international animated films, shown at multiple cinemas and free outdoor screenings.

A lawn concert on the evening of June 10 will perform classic animation songs, lighting up the summer nights of the mountain city.

Organizers stated that hosting this International Animation Film Week is a key measure for Chongqing to deepen its involvement in the animation film sector and seize the high ground in the digital creative industry. It aims to leverage the event to gather momentum, boost industry growth, deepen international exchanges and cooperation, and help Chongqing become an innovation hub for Western science and technology film. At the same time, it will use the national cultural exchange platform to tell Chinese stories and promote cross-cultural dialogue.

Chongqing

Chongqing is a major city in southwestern China, known for its mountainous terrain and strategic location at the confluence of the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers. Historically, it served as the provisional capital of China during the Second Sino-Japanese War (1937–1945) and has since grown into a vital economic and cultural hub. Today, it is famous for its spicy hotpot cuisine, unique urban landscape of skyscrapers and bridges, and the nearby Dazu Rock Carvings, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Yongchuan District

Yongchuan District is a district in Chongqing, China, known for its rich cultural heritage and natural scenery, including the famous Zhusheng Temple and the scenic Bamboo Sea. Historically, it has been an important transportation hub and agricultural area since ancient times, with a history dating back over 1,200 years to the Tang Dynasty. Today, it blends traditional culture with modern development, attracting visitors for its tea culture, hot springs, and wildlife parks.

Chongqing Yongchun Technology Studio

The Chongqing Yongchun Technology Studio is a modern innovation hub in Chongqing, China, focused on advancing technology and creative industries. It likely emerged as part of the city’s broader push for tech-driven economic growth, though specific historical details remain limited. The studio serves as a collaborative space for developers, researchers, and entrepreneurs to work on emerging technologies.

Western Science and Technology Film Studio

The Western Science and Technology Film Studio, located in Xi’an, China, is a renowned production facility specializing in science education, technology, and documentary films. Established in the mid-20th century, it has played a key role in promoting scientific knowledge through cinema, producing numerous award-winning films that blend entertainment with education. The studio also serves as a cultural site, preserving the history of China’s science filmmaking industry.

The Lion King

“The Lion King” is a beloved 1994 animated Disney film set in the African savanna, telling the story of a young lion named Simba who must overcome tragedy and exile to reclaim his rightful place as king of the Pride Lands. Inspired by Shakespeare’s “Hamlet” and drawing from African landscapes and wildlife, the film became a cultural phenomenon for its groundbreaking animation, memorable music by Elton John and Tim Rice, and themes of responsibility and the circle of life. Its success spawned a Broadway musical, a 2019 photorealistic remake, and a lasting legacy as one of the most iconic animated films of all time.

Ne Zha: The Devil’s Child Rises

“Ne Zha: The Devil’s Child Rises” is a 2025 Chinese animated film that serves as the sequel to the 2019 blockbuster “Ne Zha.” It continues the story of the rebellious deity Ne Zha, who, after being born as a demon child destined for destruction, now faces new threats to his family and the mortal world. The film explores themes of destiny and redemption while incorporating elements of Chinese mythology, building on the original’s modern retelling of the classic folk tale from the Ming dynasty novel *Fengshen Yanyi*.

Wild Times

“Wild Times” is a historic bar and music venue located in Butte, Montana, originally opened in the late 19th century as a saloon during the city’s copper mining boom. It has since become a beloved local landmark known for its rustic atmosphere, live music, and connection to Butte’s Wild West and mining heritage. The venue continues to operate today, preserving its old-time character and serving as a gathering place for both locals and visitors.

Mountain City

Mountain City generally refers to a town or city built in a mountainous region, often characterized by steep terrain and scenic views. One notable example is Mountain City, Tennessee, which was established in the early 19th century and served as an important stop along the stagecoach route. Its history includes roles in the Civil War and the development of the region’s tourism and outdoor recreation industries.