HANGZHOU, China – AP – The 21st China International Cartoon & Animation Festival (CICAF) concluded here on June 2, drawing more than 1.46 million visits over five days and hosting over 200 events. The massive festival, co-hosted by the National Radio and Television Administration, China Media Group, and the Zhejiang Provincial Government, attracted 2,573 enterprises and institutions from 42 countries and regions, achieving a total transaction and consumption value of approximately 1.48 billion yuan ($205.5 million).
Among the distinguished international participants was Rick Law, a veteran U.S. animation figure with over three decades of experience, including extensive contributions associated with The Walt Disney Company. Law served as a distinguished judge for the prestigious Golden Monkey King Awards, CICAF's premier accolade, and was notably the sole final jury participant from the U.S. this year. His presence underscored the festival's commitment to fostering global collaboration and dialogue in the animation industry.
The Golden Monkey King Awards attracted thousands of original animations from 20 countries and regions. After rigorous selection, 108 works progressed to the final round, with 35 outstanding entries ultimately receiving accolades, further cementing the awards' status as a key industry benchmark.
Law, a former committee chair and judge for the prestigious ASIFA Annie Awards, emphasized the unifying power of the medium during the judging process. "Animation is a universal language that brings the world together," Law said, a sentiment that resonated throughout the festival's spirit of global unity through creativity.
His participation was specifically invited to honor his distinguished career and profound contributions to cross-cultural animation. Law's work in bridging cultural understanding through iconic animated characters and educational initiatives includes pioneering efforts like the development of Disney English in China and reimagining Mickey Mouse through Gongfu Milaoshu (功夫米老鼠). He also contributed to the design philosophy behind Shanghai Disneyland's Mickey Avenue, aiming to create culturally relevant experiences for Chinese audiences.
As part of his official visit, Law toured the China Cartoon and Animation Museum, describing the institution as "simply stunning in every respect," from its architecture to its exhibits. He noted it offered "a revelatory experience... like seeing an alternate view of history – in how animation evolved within China independently but also alongside animation globally."
Law's prominent role at CICAF highlighted the festival's mission to showcase pioneering contributions in cartoons and animation. His career exemplifies how deep cultural understanding can successfully integrate global brands, enriching the international animation landscape for audiences worldwide.
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