HKIFF Industry Aims to Capitalize on China’s Animation Boom

The Hong Kong International Film Festival is expanding its animation program in response to the global success of “Ne Zha 2,” which grossed over $2 billion. This year, HKIFF has earmarked over $250,000 for animation projects, with a focus on collaboration with Southeast Asian markets, particularly Indonesia. Notable projects like “A Mighty Adventure” and “Fly!” showcase the growing potential within the animation sector across Asia.

The influence of “Ne Zha” looms prominently at Hong Kong Filmart 2025, evidenced by its visibility across the city. The sequel, “Ne Zha 2,” has achieved remarkable success, grossing over $2 billion globally—solidifying its status as the highest-grossing animated film to date. This success has sparked renewed interest in animation production within the industry.

The Hong Kong International Film Festival’s (HKIFF) Industry Project Market has adeptly aligned with this animation boom by expanding its program to feature animation. This timely development coincides with the unprecedented success of “Ne Zha 2,” which has generated enthusiasm among industry professionals.

Jacob Wong, head of HKIFF Industry, remarked on the unexpected nature of this success, stating, “That success seems just to be auspicious. Of course, we didn’t plan it that Ne Zha 2 would be such an enormous moneymaker, but it’s good timing.”

With over a decade of successful initiatives, HKIFF has previously supported acclaimed projects like “Living the Land,” which won a Silver Bear at the Berlin Film Festival. In total, this year the HKIFF Industry Project Market and the Hong Kong — Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF) have allocated more than $250,000 in cash and prizes across 20 development categories. Approximately 50 submissions were received for its new animation section, leading to the selection of six titles for the showcase.

Among the potential highlights is “A Mighty Adventure,” created by Toe Yeun, celebrated for “My Life as McDull.” This animation follows three determined insects—depicting themes of ambition and destiny. As Wong noted, the quality of selected entries is promising, and if successful, it may encourage similar initiatives in other project markets.

The HKIFF recognizes the lucrative growth of the animation sector in China, with an annual market value of around $22 billion. Simultaneously, Southeast Asia shows significant potential, particularly in Indonesia, projected to reach a $6.6 billion animation market by 2026. Wong indicated an intent to foster connections with Indonesian productions, emphasizing their burgeoning animation industry aimed primarily at the children’s market.

Highlighted is “Fly!” by veteran game developer Pelixiano—an animated feature about a young boy reuniting with his deceased father using a magical kite. Wong expressed enthusiasm for the upward trend of Indonesian cinema, remarking, “This is the start of something, I think.”

This collaboration with Jakarta Film Week highlights HKIFF’s commitment to integrating local Southeast Asian productions into the global film landscape, positioning the festival as a modern platform for expanding networking opportunities across the region.

The Hong Kong International Film Festival is seizing the opportunity presented by the success of “Ne Zha 2” to expand its animation initiatives, fostering new talent and collaborations across Asia. With promising projects and substantial funds allocated for development, the HKIFF is firmly positioned to enhance the animation industry landscape, both locally and regionally, encouraging future growth and innovation in the sector.

Original Source: www.hollywoodreporter.com