AI pushes creative boundaries, but human imagination remains irreplaceable

Artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the Chinese film industry, reshaping how movies are made, from conceptual development to post-production.

One striking example of this transformation is a short film by seasoned director Yu Baimei, which reimagines the legendary figure Zhong Kui in a modern context. A heroic figure from Chinese folklore, Zhong Kui is often depicted as a warrior clad in crimson robes, vanquishing evil spirits.

"I've always been drawn to Zhong Kui — humorous, heroic and deeply familiar to us all," says Yu, 49. "Yet, it felt like he's never been portrayed on TV or in movies in a way that truly does him justice."