Chongqing - On June 9, the Jury Media Meeting of the 2026 Chongqing International Animation Film Week was held at the Yongchuan International Convention and Exhibition Center in Chongqing. During the event, jury members Rob Minkoff, Yin Hong, Sheila M. Sofian, Cai Zhijun, and Cheng Teng shared their insights on topics including how animation creators can draw inspiration from local cultures to produce authentic works with distinct Chinese characteristics, as well as how Chongqing’s animation industry can achieve high-quality development.

Rob Minkoff shared his insights on topics including how animation creators can draw inspiration from local cultures to produce authentic works with distinct Chinese characteristics during the Jury Media Meeting of the 2026 Chongqing International Animation Film Week held on June 9. (Photo by the event organizer)

Throughout the event, Rob Minkoff, Chairman of the Jury for the 2026 Chongqing International Animation Film Week and director of Disney’s The Lion King, spoke highly of both the Film Week and Yongchuan, Chongqing.

According to Minkoff, not every animated work needs to be measured against Hollywood standards. He noted that Hollywood's creative approaches and evaluation criteria are rooted in American culture and therefore cannot be universally applied to animation productions around the world. He expressed his delight at attending the 2026 Chongqing International Animation Film Week and viewing works from different countries, as they showcase diverse cultural perspectives and storytelling traditions.

"I am very pleased to see that the Animation Film Week hosted in Yongchuan, Chongqing, is attracting international attention to traditional Chinese culture," said Minkoff. "I believe this Film Week serves as an important platform for industry exchange, and Yongchuan is building a bridge that connects the animation industry we know today with the future of animation yet to be created."

He added that he hopes the event will help break down global perceptions and boundaries surrounding the animation industry, allowing people to witness the flourishing development of animation across different regions of the world.

Speaking about technological transformation in animation production, Minkoff noted that technological advances have profoundly changed the way people live and work, while also reshaping the animation industry.

Reflecting on the early days of his career at Disney, he recalled a time when artists relied primarily on pencil and paper to express emotions and communicate values. As technology evolved, animation production underwent significant changes, bringing both new opportunities and growing concerns within the industry.

However, Minkoff emphasized that technology should be viewed as a tool for human expression rather than the most important element in animation creation.

"The most important thing is still human needs—the need to tell stories, express emotions, and convey meaningful values through animation," he said. "Animation technology is still in its early stages of development. Rather than creating anxiety, we should help people around the world understand how technology can empower animation and contribute to the industry's growth."

Minkoff also stressed that traditional hand-drawn animation continues to occupy an important place in the market. He hopes hand-drawn animation will continue to receive support from both audiences and investors, rather than gradually disappearing as CG animation and other new technologies advance.

"China has produced some outstanding hand-drawn animated works, and I have personally experienced the artistry and value of this tradition," he said. "I hope that even amid technological transformation, traditional hand-drawn animation will continue to receive market support and remain vibrant."

He further noted that while technological innovation can enhance visual expression, the core purpose of animation remains storytelling and emotional communication. In his view, some contemporary animated productions place too much emphasis on technical spectacle while neglecting narrative depth.

Looking ahead, Minkoff believes the future of animation lies in combining advanced technologies with traditional craftsmanship. By integrating innovation with artistic storytelling, animation can strengthen its ability to connect with audiences and create lasting emotional impact.