A Deer of Nine Colors
Shanghai Animation Film Studio
- Format
- MOVIE
- Episodes
- 1
- Status
- Finished
- Studio
- Shanghai Animation Film Studio
- Genres
- Supernatural
In ancient times, a Persian merchant gets lost in a windstorm. Suddenly a spiritual deer of nine colors appears to guide the man. Later on, the deer rescues a man drowning in a river. In exchange, the man promises not to reveal the deer's whereabouts. The man reaches an imperial palace. The king insists on hunting down the spiritual deer down to make clothes out of the deer skin. The man gives in to his greed and leads an army of warriors to the spot. He falls into the river again, hoping the deer will show up to rescue him. This time, all the warriors' arrows turn into dust and the man is drowned.
Synopsis from AniList
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Where it came from
A Deer of Nine Colors was produced by the Shanghai Animation Film Studio in 1981, emerging during a golden era of Chinese animation characterized by the exploration of traditional artistic styles. The film is based on a famous mural from the Dunhuang Mogao Caves, specifically a Jataka tale depicting a compassionate deer that saves a drowning man, only to be betrayed by him. This story, rooted in Buddhist mythology, served as a foundational narrative for the studio's goal of bringing historical frescoes to life through the distinct medium of cel animation.
The visual design of the film, directed by Qian Jiajun and Dai Tieli, represents a significant achievement in blending ancient aesthetics with modern cinematography. The artists spent extensive time at the Mogao Caves to study the color palettes and line work of the murals, intentionally utilizing a flat, layered technique that mimicked the look of the original wall paintings. Upon its release, the film was lauded for its artistic integrity and emotional resonance, solidifying its place as a seminal work in Chinese cinematic history that continues to be studied for its unique integration of heritage art and animation.
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