The organizer of the 22nd Shanghai International Film Festival on March 18 released an official poster that drew inspiration from a Monkey King-themed film Havoc in Heaven.
Famous poster designer Huang Hai was commissioned to create the artwork with the theme "Creative Heroes Behind the Scenes". Shanghai Animation Film Studios, the producer of Havoc in Heaven, authorized the use of the image.
"I feel that Havoc in Heaven is the utmost representation of the aesthetics of the Chinese cinema, and the brainchild of the older generation of Chinese filmmakers," Huang said. "It is a work that does not distinguish the front stage from the back stage, but pulls the two together for collective wisdom and dedication."
According to Huang, the color of the poster is similar to the one used for the original film, while the waterfall curtain that is depicted pays tribute to a classic scene from the film and also symbolizes the inauguration of the film festival.
The organizer said that the Monkey King, whose Chinese name is Sun Wukong, is the incarnation of bravery, loyalty and ambition, and the design idea of the official poster showcases traditional Chinese cultural elements to the world in a contemporary art language.
The organizer also said that the design perfectly conveys the message that the real glamor of films lies in collective wisdom and devotion, while paying tribute to the behind-the-scenes filmmakers.
The poster also drew applause from netizens.
"It's a wonderful piece and full of imagination," said a Web user on Sina Weibo. "The traditional Chinese art and culture are highlighted, with a clear theme."
The only competitive feature film festival in China, the 22nd Shanghai International Film Festival, held by China Media Group and Shanghai Municipal People's Government, will take place from June 15 to 24.
