Traditional Chinese Culture Communication by Animation Film: Monkey King Hero Is Back
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Abstract
This study aims to: (1) explore the representation of traditional Chinese cultural contexts in animation; (2) examine storytelling strategies used to communicate traditional Chinese culture; and (3) identify development approaches for promoting traditional Chinese culture through animation. A mixed-methods research design was employed, integrating quantitative and qualitative approaches. Quantitative data were collected using a structured questionnaire administered to audiences to evaluate perceptions of cultural communication through the film. Qualitative data were obtained through in-depth interviews with 20 key informants, including academics, animation industry professionals, and audience representatives. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, content analysis, and interpretive analysis, while methodological triangulation was applied to enhance the validity and reliability of the findings.
The results indicate that animated films effectively construct cultural contexts by integrating visual symbols, sound, narrative, and traditional spiritual values. Overall, 62% of respondents evaluated animation as an effective or excellent medium for promoting traditional culture. Audiovisual cultural presentation received a mean score of 3.29, while respondents' perceived ability to explain cultural characteristics improved after viewing (Mean = 3.22). Nevertheless, emotional engagement remained comparatively moderate (Mean = 3.19), suggesting that cognitive understanding exceeded emotional internalization. Qualitative findings further revealed that narrative adaptation, particularly the humanization of the Monkey King and the integration of contemporary animation technology with traditional aesthetics, significantly enhanced audience engagement. The study concludes that successful cultural communication through animation depends on the integration of authentic cultural representation, narrative innovation, and technological advancement to achieve sustainable cultural dissemination in both domestic and global contexts.
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