Recent trends confirm it once again: Asia is a powerhouse of new ideas, IP, and animation styles. Alongside the well-established Japan—and increasingly, China—new players are emerging in the world of animation, including Hong Kong.

Hong Kong’s animation scene is vibrant and rapidly evolving, and at the Annecy International Animated Film Festival, we seized the opportunity to explore some of the latest projects featured at the Festival.

The pitch session titled Exploring the Potential of Hong Kong’s Animation, entirely dedicated to Hong Kong-made animation, showcased six new projects currently seeking producers and investors. Here’s an overview of the session highlights:

Kill Danny 1999

The first project, Kill Danny 1999, is an action short film produced by 924 Studio Limited. This dark comedy offers a satirical spin on a narrative trope: a protagonist (stuntman) swears revenge on a villain (boss) for harming his beloved dog. A tribute to Hong Kong’s golden age of film, the project reshapes the very essence of animation, boldly defining its genre. This short marks the third chapter in the Kill Danny trilogy, known for its irreverent humor, sharp tone, and vivid, fast-paced 2D animation.

The Dream of Helena

Presented by Astro Heart Limited, The Dream of Helena is a poetic tale “about Helena chasing her dream.” A dreamlike narrative that celebrates resilience and ambition. The story follows Helena, who, after a visit to the library, develops a passion for astronomy. Despite her dedication, she must confront social challenges and unfair treatment. How will she overcome these barriers and find the strength to move forward?

Roboy

The third project, Roboy, comes from Free-D Workshop Ltd. The story begins “at the edge of a vast desert,” where a grumpy mechanic is thrust into chaos when a nuclear-powered robot crash-lands at his repair station, and a stranded rescue team member commandeers his vehicle for a critical mission. Friendship, discovery, and humor are at the core of this high-voltage project, promising an adventurous journey of self-discovery—for its characters and its audience.

Nine

Nine, the fourth pitch by ManyMany Creations, stands out for its pioneering production method. From script to animation, the film is developed entirely with the aid of AI—used not as a replacement but as a tool to “push production boundaries.” This approach empowers all contributors, including actors, to participate in the creative process and express themselves through animation.

Silli & Tree

Produced by Morph Workshop, Silli & Tree explores “the idea of balance—not just for individuals, but also for communities and the broader world.” It’s a journey of self-discovery, purpose, and finding one’s place within the larger whole.

Depths of Light

The sixth and final project, Depths of Light, was presented by StepC: “When a woman meets her double, their connection leads her to a powerful truth: only by letting go can she truly live.” Blending dreamlike visuals with a hybrid animation style, the project delves into themes of duality and self-awareness, inviting viewers to explore the depths of the inner self.