This is a very peaceful movie. You will not know when it will end. The scenes are very beautiful. It is one of my favourite animations.
16 Reviews
A beautiful movie
mcfuwad13 July 2021
A big effort for Chinese animation
parkerbcn18 May 2021
This is a big effort in 2D animation for China, trying very hard to deliver a product that could be at the same time exciting and profound and that has the look of a blockbuster Japanese Anime, more specifically the Studio Ghibli ones. And the end result manages to work in some occasions and to look quite the part, but still suffers from some pacing problems and a lack of emotional focus at times. Also, the way the story develops ends up being quite conventional, but for the most part it's an enjoyable film.
One of the Weirdest Movies I've Ever Seen
JayWolfgramm30 August 2022
I hadn't seen any trailers or heard anything about this movie before watching it. I simply had a lot of nieces who liked cats and this looked like a cute cat movie. The cat on the cover is just ridiculously cute, with its big cat eyes, how could I resist picking it?
For the first 7 minutes of the film it follows basically how I imagined the story to go. Hei is a cat that lives in the forest, until the evil monster known as "man" comes and destroys it. Hei must then find a new home in the city. Hijinks ensue as he and his smaller hairball companion ( I never did figure out what it was supposed to be) search for food and shelter. Now, if you want to watch the movie as ignorant as possible stop reading now and just be surprised by the craziness which follows. But, since part of a review is to give the reader some idea of what the movie is like, I will explain the premise.
As some bully kids decide to torment the cat, Hei transforms into a giant cat beast. Before Hei can get vengeance on the kids, they are instead picked off by phantom tree branches. These tree branches are being controlled by some kind of tree bending spirit. A number of spirits then join in and sweep Hei off to a hideout in the woods. Hei transforms into a cat boy hybrid. The hideout is then invaded by a metal bending "enforcer" who captures Hei and plans to take him to the realm of spirits...That all happens in about 6 minutes of screentime. I had no idea what kind of movie I was getting into
Once I adjusted to the tonal whiplash of the opening, I did find myself enjoying the film. Safe to say that I never knew what to expect going forward, so it always kept me on my toes. The movie is (mostly) very well animated and incredibly creative. I found myself very swept up in the drama of it. Certain action scenes towards the end had me at the edge of my seat.
On the negative side, the main enforcer, named "Infinity", is really dull. He speaks all his lines in the same monotone whisper, trying to convey the air of a tough stoic Samurai. Other main characters are also pretty bland and forgettable.
Not to mention, this film is crazy. Throughout the finale the rules of this world are put into question. It concludes in a confusing way, taking advantage of some obscure loophole in the lore that wasn't really explained. And there are times where the animators were just wanting to take a break, so they will linger on a still frame for nearly a minute.
But, if you find yourself in the mood for some craziness, this may be the film for you. It has some crazy over the top action scenes and keeps you guessing where it's going to go up to the very end. I didn't understand all of it, but it certainly left an impression on me.
For the first 7 minutes of the film it follows basically how I imagined the story to go. Hei is a cat that lives in the forest, until the evil monster known as "man" comes and destroys it. Hei must then find a new home in the city. Hijinks ensue as he and his smaller hairball companion ( I never did figure out what it was supposed to be) search for food and shelter. Now, if you want to watch the movie as ignorant as possible stop reading now and just be surprised by the craziness which follows. But, since part of a review is to give the reader some idea of what the movie is like, I will explain the premise.
As some bully kids decide to torment the cat, Hei transforms into a giant cat beast. Before Hei can get vengeance on the kids, they are instead picked off by phantom tree branches. These tree branches are being controlled by some kind of tree bending spirit. A number of spirits then join in and sweep Hei off to a hideout in the woods. Hei transforms into a cat boy hybrid. The hideout is then invaded by a metal bending "enforcer" who captures Hei and plans to take him to the realm of spirits...That all happens in about 6 minutes of screentime. I had no idea what kind of movie I was getting into
Once I adjusted to the tonal whiplash of the opening, I did find myself enjoying the film. Safe to say that I never knew what to expect going forward, so it always kept me on my toes. The movie is (mostly) very well animated and incredibly creative. I found myself very swept up in the drama of it. Certain action scenes towards the end had me at the edge of my seat.
On the negative side, the main enforcer, named "Infinity", is really dull. He speaks all his lines in the same monotone whisper, trying to convey the air of a tough stoic Samurai. Other main characters are also pretty bland and forgettable.
Not to mention, this film is crazy. Throughout the finale the rules of this world are put into question. It concludes in a confusing way, taking advantage of some obscure loophole in the lore that wasn't really explained. And there are times where the animators were just wanting to take a break, so they will linger on a still frame for nearly a minute.
But, if you find yourself in the mood for some craziness, this may be the film for you. It has some crazy over the top action scenes and keeps you guessing where it's going to go up to the very end. I didn't understand all of it, but it certainly left an impression on me.
some feelings
j_movie15 August 2021
It's quite unexpected to see this IP for the first time. Xiaohei's role design is very unique, and the environment breaks the boundary between regional years and generations. Many scenes are unrestrained. This is the quality that a good Guoman should have, leading the audience to constantly expand the boundary of imagination. On the whole, it follows the route of "soft sprout + Chinese style", and the in-depth discussion is the theme of trust, growth and self breakthrough. In life, you may also encounter the situation of wandering among people like infinity and wind to find a sense of belonging. When you can really distinguish right from wrong, that is, the moment of real growth. We need subversive animation like Nezha and warm animation like "Luo Xiaohei".
A milestone for China domestic 2D animated films
luowjmononoke12 September 2019
Dating back to 2011, the mysterious independent producer MTJJ created the character of Luo Xiao-Hei and animated TV series as well. With stick figure style yet marvelous storyline and profound worldview, the series captured millions of viewers and considered to be the shining star of domestic animation. Though facing difficulties of fund and staff shortages, MTJJ never gave up and keep on serializing to 28 short episodes, about 2 hours in total, till this day with the help of a team consists of few people.
That's why the 100 mins long 2D animated film with the same name set off a fan carnival this summer. Not only the smooth painting style can be compared to world famous Studio Ghibli and Kyoto Animation, the intimate growing up tale also touched the innermost feelings of audiences, let along Easter eggs hidden everywhere and homage paying to classics. Last but not least, the film portraits a true Chinese style atmosphere with a glimpse of ancient and modern China together.
The movie do have a relatively slow pacing of daily life stories In the first half which may cause some audience fell a little bit dull. Whatever the flaws, it still resembles a milestone of modern day 2D Chinese animated films
The best Ghibli movie in years is not from Ghibli
vbertola21 January 2020
When Air China's entertainment system suggested this to me, I had no idea of what this was about - but I was immediately captivated, as it looks like a Ghibli movie, only not from Ghibli but from unknown Chinese animators. So I watched it in Chinese (even if I don't understand it) and I liked it so much that as soon as I got home I started to search for the web animation series from which the characters are taken.
The drawing style is deceptively simple, but the backgrounds and scenery in the first half are nothing short of wonderful. They recreate that magical atmosphere of a lost natural world that you may remember from Mononoke Hime or Totoro, with the movie being a bit of both - a peaceful and funny (lots of gags!) growth experience for a young, exhuberant demon-cat-kid, but also the tale of the clash between nature and mankind. (Since young and self-confident China is not old and weary Japan, though, the moral angle on this will end up slightly differently...) But what is really outstanding is the characterization of the protagonist, in terms of story and in terms of animation. It is very well done, and you will really root for Xiaohei as the character grows in several dimensions.
The final part is IMHO a bit less convincing and not so Ghibli-esque, as it focuses on solving the conflict that has been building up throughout the movie, and at times becomes more like a superhero fight sequence. However, in the overall this is a really good animation movie and if a Western edition comes out you should definitely not miss it; in the meantime, you can look for it online, and even the unsubtitled Chinese version will do (there is not a lot of dialogue and you can figure out the story quite easily without it).
The drawing style is deceptively simple, but the backgrounds and scenery in the first half are nothing short of wonderful. They recreate that magical atmosphere of a lost natural world that you may remember from Mononoke Hime or Totoro, with the movie being a bit of both - a peaceful and funny (lots of gags!) growth experience for a young, exhuberant demon-cat-kid, but also the tale of the clash between nature and mankind. (Since young and self-confident China is not old and weary Japan, though, the moral angle on this will end up slightly differently...) But what is really outstanding is the characterization of the protagonist, in terms of story and in terms of animation. It is very well done, and you will really root for Xiaohei as the character grows in several dimensions.
The final part is IMHO a bit less convincing and not so Ghibli-esque, as it focuses on solving the conflict that has been building up throughout the movie, and at times becomes more like a superhero fight sequence. However, in the overall this is a really good animation movie and if a Western edition comes out you should definitely not miss it; in the meantime, you can look for it online, and even the unsubtitled Chinese version will do (there is not a lot of dialogue and you can figure out the story quite easily without it).
JAW DROPPINGLY BEAUTIFUL
veganhealer2 January 2022
Already made it to my Top 10 Fav Anime List for sure! What an AMAZING world to be immersed in! Turn up those speakers too because the sound is super sweet. SO powerful. You can literally FEEL the artists' creative intent especially with the INTENSE battle scenes, camera angle shifts, and the SPEED. WOW! Seriously buying this movie in HDX on VUDU right NOW. Unforgettable movie.
Artstyle, animation and story was simply perfect for me
shockz_9330 November 2020
I was absolutely amazed by the quality of this movie. The story is touching and really funny, and the battles are spectacular.
Must watch! Especially for fans of the Avatar: the last Airbender series, who are looking for a similar experience.
It's ok
jhavsteenfranklin27 March 2022
Beautiful backgrounds, but the most undynamic animation I've watched, it feels stiff. Compositions mostly play it safe, even in action sequences. The story didn't have me engaged, and most of the characters didn't show much or any depth. Regardless the drawing skill is amazing, its just everything else is lacking.
I Love Chinese Animation Movie.
h-0083810 May 2020
At the beginning, I always thought that the rise of Guoman meant the picture rather than the plot, but now I know what the real rise of Guoman is. Just this plot, picture, clip and soundtrack have reached the world level. Unexpectedly, douban'er fell from 9.0 to 8.2! It's a pity that the film didn't show in America, otherwise it would have won the Oscar.
It Is of Great Value to See This Film
cbljk-8473114 November 2020
If you have seen the TV version of this film, you will get confused by the birth of Hei. The film is here to introduce it.
In my opnion, the film is special. It pays more attention to audience exprience. In the film, the perspective follows Hei. We can feel the emotional change of Hei.
What's more, the film brings us to think about ethics. It is not only a storyline, but also a intro into the thinking of right and wrong. Each character is not completely right or wrong. Everything is judged by the audience.
The shortcoming of the film is that it is not very friendly to a western audience. As an asian audience, he or she can understand the film quite well. But as to western audience, he or she may have to know more background about asian culture.
More, I strongly recommend you to watch the TV version, which is now free of charge. If you do so, you would have a brand new view of all characters.
In my opnion, the film is special. It pays more attention to audience exprience. In the film, the perspective follows Hei. We can feel the emotional change of Hei.
What's more, the film brings us to think about ethics. It is not only a storyline, but also a intro into the thinking of right and wrong. Each character is not completely right or wrong. Everything is judged by the audience.
The shortcoming of the film is that it is not very friendly to a western audience. As an asian audience, he or she can understand the film quite well. But as to western audience, he or she may have to know more background about asian culture.
More, I strongly recommend you to watch the TV version, which is now free of charge. If you do so, you would have a brand new view of all characters.
IF ONLY CHINA'S RULERS WOULD FOLLOW THE MORALITY OF HONOUR SHOWN IN ITS ANIMATION FILMS!
silicontourist3 September 2021
Much of China's animated films are not just for children; they are a complete family viewing necessity! I say this because - as a lover of animation films (in particular Asian/Eastern Chinese, Japanese, Korean etc) - it/they are a way to escape the cruel reality of the day to day misery of most of the Chinese population.
Having said that this is just top of the shop animation film making (something like the early days of Disney wonders; before they became just another greedy corporate megalomaniac bunch of Board-members and Shareholders).
There is definitely a look/feel of the old Japanese Studio Ghibli approach of animation; animation espionage I call it :) That, in this case, is a good thing though as the 'GHIBLI' studio's were the best animation film producers ever...by far better than Disney. Its got nothing wrong with it at all. Its interesting, engrossing, different, active/lively and pure fun!
China's march towards film domination will soon leave Hollywood trailing far behind, but, as good as they get with every film they will have to be content with sharing the top spot with both japan and South Korea!
Having said that this is just top of the shop animation film making (something like the early days of Disney wonders; before they became just another greedy corporate megalomaniac bunch of Board-members and Shareholders).
There is definitely a look/feel of the old Japanese Studio Ghibli approach of animation; animation espionage I call it :) That, in this case, is a good thing though as the 'GHIBLI' studio's were the best animation film producers ever...by far better than Disney. Its got nothing wrong with it at all. Its interesting, engrossing, different, active/lively and pure fun!
China's march towards film domination will soon leave Hollywood trailing far behind, but, as good as they get with every film they will have to be content with sharing the top spot with both japan and South Korea!
Amazing
osunniyi26 September 2020
One word to describe this movie is amazing. The voice actors did great displaying all emotions and the story is so well thought out. One of my favorite; if not my favorite animated movie. A well thought out story with plenty of mind blowing action sequences to amp it up. Perfect. I honestly have nothing bad to say about this movie.
So much wasted potential...
paul_haakonsen11 May 2021
I have to admit that I was immediately drawn to this 2019 animated movie's cover/poster. That drawing of Hei is just adorable.
And I have to say that throughout the course of the movie there were an abundance of good scenes with some great expressions and emotions drawn upon the cat's face and features. And I date almost say that the cat alone made it worthwhile sitting down to watch "The Legend of Hei" (aka "Luo Xiao Hei zhan ji").
The storyline, though, was a mixed bags of nuts. It started out pretty good and was interesting up to about halfway through - up to where they came to the city - then the movie just stagnated and I lost interest in it there. Actually I fell asleep as well, because the storyline just flatlined.
My 11 year old son did enjoy this 2019 animated movie to the end though. Me on the other hand, well, not so much. It started out okay for me, but then it just died and trailed off.
Well, there are worst animated movies out there, for sure. And by all means, do give "The Legend of Hei" a chance, it might just fall into your liking.
The animation was good and the art style was good. The voice acting was fair enough I suppose.
All in all, "The Legend of Hei" plummeted from being a rather good animated movie for me, to becoming a less than mediocre one. Hence, I am giving it a four out of ten stars.
And I have to say that throughout the course of the movie there were an abundance of good scenes with some great expressions and emotions drawn upon the cat's face and features. And I date almost say that the cat alone made it worthwhile sitting down to watch "The Legend of Hei" (aka "Luo Xiao Hei zhan ji").
The storyline, though, was a mixed bags of nuts. It started out pretty good and was interesting up to about halfway through - up to where they came to the city - then the movie just stagnated and I lost interest in it there. Actually I fell asleep as well, because the storyline just flatlined.
My 11 year old son did enjoy this 2019 animated movie to the end though. Me on the other hand, well, not so much. It started out okay for me, but then it just died and trailed off.
Well, there are worst animated movies out there, for sure. And by all means, do give "The Legend of Hei" a chance, it might just fall into your liking.
The animation was good and the art style was good. The voice acting was fair enough I suppose.
All in all, "The Legend of Hei" plummeted from being a rather good animated movie for me, to becoming a less than mediocre one. Hence, I am giving it a four out of ten stars.
I loved it!
hnatalyaritza11 March 2023
It was the cutest movie ever and it was funny too. Anyone who didn't like it, you're just weird and something is wrong with you. This is one of the best films I have seen in a long time because most of the movies nowadays are trash. Like there was so many funny scenes and the main character (the little boy) is so adorable especially when he turns into a cat. The plot is also pretty good, I wouldn't have expected it. Overall, I would recommend for a family or little kids to watch this movie. The fights and animation is pretty good very similar to demon slayer if you like to watch pretty movies.
I am NOT a target audience!
panta-425 May 2021
I am definitely NOT the target audience for this... The Legend of Hei, released in China as The Legend of Luo Xiaohei, is an animated movie released in Summer 2019 and it was made as a prequel to the cartoon show, The Legend of Luo Xiaohei. So, if you are a fan of the series, the movie details various events in the life of Luo Xiaohei before everything happening there.
Too many characters doing too many things at too many places. I would expect that 10 to 12 year old kids who are into this type of animation would enjoy this - for the most of the other like me, much older, a snooze would be an appropriate response.
Too many characters doing too many things at too many places. I would expect that 10 to 12 year old kids who are into this type of animation would enjoy this - for the most of the other like me, much older, a snooze would be an appropriate response.
See also
Awards | FAQ | User Ratings | External Reviews | Metacritic Reviews
