A Narrative Study on Traditional Values of Chinese Youth Based on the Chinese Animated Film "I Am What I Am"

In recent years, Chinese animated cinema has demonstrated a notable emergence of remarkable works, primarily centered on contemporary reinterpretations of traditional Chinese mythology, including narratives featuring iconic figures such as Sun Wukong, Nezha, and Jiang Ziya. Regardless of these trends, the thematic scope has remained relatively limited. However, the animated feature "I am what I am" represents a groundbreaking endeavor in the realm of realistic themes within Chinese animation. Set against the backdrop of contemporary societal challenges such as epidemics, natural disasters, strategic maneuvers, and shifting circumstances, the film not only mirrors the prevailing zeitgeist in China but also celebrates the temporal values and aesthetics inherent to Chinese culture. Drawing upon the cultural motif of traditional Chinese lion dance, the narrative intricately weaves a poignant tale of marginalized children endeavoring to pursue their dreams within the realm of lion dance. This narrative poignantly underscores the director's compassionate engagement with the plight of left-behind children and migrant workers, thereby elevating their struggles and destinies to the forefront. Within the context of modern Chinese society, this study aims to explore the innovative endeavor to convey and uphold traditional values and aesthetics of Chinese ethnic groups through exceptional animated films that refrain from deifying civilian heroes.