Taichung, Taiwan – Get ready for an incredible cinematic experience as the Taichung International Animation Film Festival kicks off on September 15th! This nine-day extravaganza promises to be a treat for film enthusiasts, featuring 12 captivating feature films and an astounding 121 short films.
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Grand Launch Event: “2023 Taichung International Animation Film Festival”
The festivities began with a grand launch press conference held on the 13th. Information Director Zheng Zhaoxin graced the platform alongside renowned director Wang Xiaodi, Taichung Film and Television Development Foundation CEO Lin Yingzhi, and esteemed animation filmmakers like Wang Shiwei, Wu Zhizheng, and Zhang Yanrong. The event was abuzz with excitement as Director Zheng enthusiastically praised the world premieres of the opening and closing films, “The Jungle Book” and “Firebird: Flowers of Memory,” along with the diverse and opulent film selections from various countries.
Ticket Sales Galore!
The highly anticipated moment arrived when it was announced that ticket sales for the Animation Film Festival would commence at noon on September 15th via the OPENTIX platform. Early birds have the chance to snag discounts and exclusive limited gifts. Additionally, a stroke of luck could win you round-trip air tickets to Japan, adding to the anticipation of a ticket-buying frenzy.
Making Taichung the Animation Hub
Information Director Zheng Zhaoxin expressed his vision of making Taichung the epicenter of Animation film festivals. Under the guidance of the Taichung City Government and Information Bureau, and with sponsorship from the Taichung City Film and Television Development Foundation, the “2023 Taichung International Animation Film Festival” has reached its 9th edition, extending from its original 6 days to a glorious 9 days. This year’s theme, “Between Light and Shadow,” beautifully merges Taichung’s essence with fantasy elements. The selection includes 12 feature films, 121 short films, and proudly showcases 21 Taiwanese animations. With more than 2,800 entries for the short film category, the judges handpicked 60 finalists, reinforcing the film festival’s growth.
Acknowledging Gratitude and Looking Ahead
Director Zheng expressed heartfelt gratitude to Wang Xiaodi, the director of the beloved Taiwanese classic animation “Magic Granny,” Wang Shiwei, the director of the opening film “Monster Forest,” and Wu Zhizheng, who served as both a preliminary judge of the short film competition and a key player in “Magic Granny 2.” He even shared a delightful vision for the 10th-anniversary celebration of the film festival next year, hoping to showcase the world premiere of the local animated feature film “Magic Granny 2” currently in production, promising an exciting treat for all Taiwanese movie enthusiasts.
Exclusive Festival Packages
CEO of the foundation, Lin Yingzhi, announced an exclusive treat for movie buffs this year. Following last year’s instant sell-out, they are introducing the “Dawn Package” with a limited edition of 100 sets. Each set, priced at NT$488, includes 8 pieces along with animation film festival poster and a joint stamp album. Moreover, the “Movie Chasing Pass,” exclusively available on weekdays, offers a discounted rate of NT$799 per set, coupled with a bonus “Dream Guide-Mobile Lanyard Fragrance Set” to enhance the movie-watching experience with the festival’s unique scent. During the pre-sale period, from September 15th to October 12th, ticket buyers stand a chance to win “round-trip air tickets to Japan.” Movie fans, be prepared for this rare opportunity!
International Blockbusters Await
Program Director Zhang Yanrong shared exciting news about this year’s lineup, which includes international blockbusters like “Fire Bird: Flowers in Memory” and “Linda Wants to Eat Chicken!” Alongside these, expect thrilling titles such as “Guitar Cowboy Rhapsody” and “Tunnel to Summer, Goodbye Exit.” The festival also boasts themed units showcasing the works of American independent animation master Bill Plimpton, Japan’s Studio4℃, and the Hiroshima Animation Season Selections, promising an exceptional cinematic experience. Notably, international filmmakers like Bill Plimpton, Studio4℃’s Eiko Tanaka, and Hiroshima Animation Season curator Nobuaki Doi will grace the event with their presence. Fans eager to meet their idols in person should mark their calendars!
A Dive into Animation Creation
The Information Bureau revealed an exciting addition to the festival this year, with special exhibitions. The “Monster Forest” exhibition, held at Zhongshan 73, provides a unique glimpse into the film’s development, featuring production manuscripts, scene models, art, characters, and a special screening of the documentary “We Animated on the Island.” Meanwhile, the “Between Light and Shadow – 2023 TIAF Animation Creation Joint Exhibition” at the Orange Cloth Art Café delves into the creative process of Taiwanese animations selected for the competition, offering manuscripts and video records. These exhibitions will run until October 30th, promising a captivating experience for animation enthusiasts.
Family Fun and Outdoor Screenings
For a delightful family experience, an annual outdoor screening and film selection guide event is scheduled for September 23rd at the square in front of the Taichung Railway Station. They’ll be screening the classic 1989 film “The Little Mermaid.” Kids dressed in summer ocean-themed attire can look forward to redeeming exquisite products, with the first 100 attendees receiving summer swimming ring seats and priority seating in the rock and roll area for movie viewing. Pre-sale ticket buyers for the animation film festival on the same day will enjoy exclusive discounts, so seize this opportunity for a memorable family outing.
Save the Dates
Lastly, mark your calendars for the 2023 Taichung International Animation Film Festival, taking place at Taroko New Era Village Roadshow Cinemas in Taichung from October 13th to October 21st. Pre-sale tickets will be available on OPENTIX starting from September 15th. Regularly priced at 140 yuan, vouchers during the pre-sale period will enjoy a discounted rate of NT$80, with a chance to win a round-trip air ticket to Japan. Don’t miss this cinematic extravaganza!
Source: storm.mg