The HKIFF 2025’s focus on animation aligns with the success of *Ne Zha 2*. Jacob Wong, head of HKIFF Industry, has noted the auspicious timing for animation projects, which includes substantial funding to promote emerging talents in animation. Collaborations with Indonesia’s burgeoning animation market indicate a broader strategy to develop a diverse and robust animation landscape in Asia.
At the Hong Kong International Film Festival (HKIFF) 2025, the impact of the animated blockbuster Ne Zha is unmistakable, evidenced by its widespread promotion and discussions permeating the film and television market. The sequel, Ne Zha 2, has achieved unprecedented success with over $2 billion in global box office earnings, marking it as the most successful animated film to date. This success has catalyzed industry interest in further animation projects.
The HKIFF Industry Project Market, coinciding with the success of Ne Zha 2, has expanded its focus to include animation. Jacob Wong, the head of HKIFF Industry, expressed the serendipity of this timing, stating, “That success seems just to be auspicious.” Although the project market did not anticipate this particular success, Wong sees it as an encouraging moment for future endeavors in animation.
The HKIFF Industry’s two initiatives have positively influenced the film landscape, having supported award-winning projects over the past decade, including the acclaimed rural drama Living the Land. This year, the Project Market is offering substantial financial backing, with over $250,000 allocated across 24 prizes for film development, and it attracted around 50 submissions for its inaugural animation section.
Among the noteworthy projects showcased is A Mighty Adventure by Toe Yeun, the creator of My Life as McDull. This animated film features a narrative about three determined insects navigating their life journeys. The HKIFF Industry aims to leverage the burgeoning animation sector in China, valued at approximately $22 billion annually, while also recognizing significant strides in animation in Southeast Asia, particularly Indonesia.
Wong highlighted Indonesia’s growing animation industry, projected to reach $6.6 billion by 2026, and noted collaborations with Jakarta Film Week to bring Indonesian projects to a wider audience. He remarked, “This is the start of something, I think,” emphasizing the potential for further connection between Asian animation projects and international filmmakers attending Filmart. Indonesia’s prolific film output, averaging one release per week, suggests a vibrant market ready to be explored.
The HKIFF Industry Project Market’s expansion into animation coincides with the monumental success of *Ne Zha 2*, heralding a new era for the genre in the region. The project market, with its substantial financial support and international collaborations, is poised to capitalize on the growth of animation in China and Southeast Asia. Through strategic initiatives and partnerships, HKIFF aims to foster innovation and creativity within the rapidly evolving animation industry.
Original Source: www.hollywoodreporter.com
