The Best Donghua of 2022: A Journey Through Stunning Animation and Captivating Stories
2022 was a phenomenal year for donghua, the Chinese animation scene. We saw the rise of new studios, the continued evolution of storytelling, and a plethora of visually stunning masterpieces. From the epic to the intimate, here's a look at some of the best donghua that graced our screens last year:
Epic Adventures:
- "The Legend of Vox Machina": This animated adaptation of the popular Dungeons & Dragons campaign brought to life by Critical Role is a must-watch for fans of fantasy and adventure. With its stunning visuals and engaging characters, this series captures the excitement and camaraderie of a classic tabletop RPG.
- "Hitori no Shita: The Outcast" (Season 3): This series continues to explore the fascinating world of Chinese mythology and martial arts, with its captivating storyline and impressive fight choreography. This season delivered some of the most visually spectacular scenes of the entire series.
- "Wu Geng Ji" (Season 4): A thrilling epic that blends fantasy, action, and drama, "Wu Geng Ji" continues to impress with its detailed animation and epic battles. The story takes a new turn in this season, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats.
Heartwarming Stories:
- "The Daily Life of the Immortal King" (Season 2): This heartwarming comedy follows the life of Wang Ling, a seemingly ordinary high school student who's actually a powerful immortal. Season 2 delivers more laughs, heart, and unexpected twists, solidifying the series' place as a fan favorite.
- "Under One Person" (Season 4): This series, based on a popular webcomic, explores themes of family, friendship, and responsibility through its fascinating supernatural world. The beautifully crafted animation and touching character development made this season a poignant watch.
- "Scissor Seven" (Season 3): This action-comedy series keeps audiences entertained with its wacky characters, high-octane action sequences, and heartfelt moments. Season 3 further developed the characters and introduced some exciting new developments to the plot.
Unique & Innovative:
- "Spiritpact" (Season 4): This action-packed series, based on a popular webcomic, explores the world of spirit-pact relationships. With its unique art style and complex characters, "Spiritpact" is a standout in the donghua world.
- "The Starry Sky": This beautifully animated series tells a poignant story about two young men who share a deep bond. Its stunning visual style and emotional depth made "The Starry Sky" a truly captivating watch.
Beyond the Screen:
2022 also saw a surge in popularity for donghua outside of China. More platforms are now offering English subtitles, making it easier than ever for international audiences to enjoy these captivating stories.
Donghua continues to evolve, pushing the boundaries of storytelling and animation. Whether you're looking for epic adventures, heartwarming stories, or innovative tales, there's a donghua out there for you.