Lu Shidai

Lu Shidai, also known as The Era of Lu, is a Chinese original net animation (ONA) series produced by Haoliners Animation League. Released starting in 2013, the series was designed as a satire and tribute to the broader animation industry, utilizing a distinct, somewhat simplified aesthetic that leans into the self-aware, meme-heavy humor common in early Chinese web-based media. It gained popularity for its bold approach to breaking the fourth wall and its reflections on the challenges of independent animation production in China at the time.

The series was directed and produced by Haoliners, a studio that became a cornerstone of the Chinese animation industry throughout the 2010s. By incorporating varied artistic styles and a rapid-fire delivery of internet subculture references, the creators sought to comment on the state of creative work within digital spaces. While its visual style was often criticized for its rudimentary quality compared to high-budget productions, it was received warmly by audiences for its authentic engagement with the frustrations and aspirations of young creators.