The 2000s marked a significant era for Chinese animated movies​. As China's animation industry matured, more filmmakers ventured into stories rooted in mythology, history, and modern fantasy. These years saw the emergence of visionary directors, groundbreaking animation studios, and a growing domestic and international interest in Chinese culture through animated storytelling.

Here are 20 notable Chinese animated movies from the 2000s, each contributing to the expanding legacy of animation in China.

1. Lotus Lantern (2000)

Released at the very beginning of the decade, Lotus Lanterncontinued the success of China's animation revival that began in the 1990s. Inspired by Chinese folklore, it tells the story of a boy named Chenxiang who defies the Jade Emperor to rescue his mother. Stunning visuals and a touching narrative made this film a favorite among younger audiences.

2. Big-Headed Kid and Small-Headed Father (2001)

Originally a popular TV cartoon, the 2001 film adaptation brought the characters to the big screen. The slice-of-life story explores themes of family, education, and modern urban life. It resonated deeply with middle-class Chinese families.

3. Music Up (2001)

Often dubbed as China’s answer to Gundamor Initial D, Music Upis an anime-style movie that blends pop culture, music, and teen aspirations. It also featured one of the first digital idols in China, offering a futuristic take on fame and youth.

4. The Story of Afanti (2002)

Afanti, a character based on a Central Asian folk hero, became a staple in Chinese animation. The 2002 version updated the animation style while retaining the wit and charm of the original tales. Known for its humor and wisdom, this film highlighted ethnic diversity within China.

5. 999 Roses (2003)

Directed by Chen Zhihong, this romantic fantasy follows a boy who seeks to impress his love by growing 999 magical roses. The movie blends traditional Chinese romantic tropes with a visually poetic art style.

6. The Magic Aster (2004)

This charming tale centers on a brave girl and her talking dog as they try to save their village using a magical flower. It received praise for its colorful design and subtle moral lessons about courage and unity.

7. The Blue Cat Series: Blue Cat’s Legend (2004)

Expanding from a successful television franchise, the Blue Catmovie brought science fiction and humor together. It follows a group of time-traveling cats who witness key events in China’s ancient history.

8. Little Soldier Zhang Ga (2005)

Based on a classic revolutionary novel, this animated adaptation tells the story of a brave boy who becomes a hero during the Second Sino-Japanese War. The film blends patriotic education with compelling storytelling.

9. Century Sonny (2006)

This sci-fi adventure was one of the earliest attempts to develop a full CGI-animated feature in China. Set in a digital world, the movie followed Sonny, a heroic chip, on a mission to restore order after a computer virus outbreak.

10. Pleasant Goat and Big Big Wolf (2006)

A massive success as a TV show, this franchise spawned multiple theatrical releases. The first film set the stage for a series of comical and action-packed stories featuring goats and wolves in constant rivalry. It became a cultural phenomenon among children.

11. McDull, Prince de la Bun (2004)

A co-production with Hong Kong, this bittersweet animated movie follows McDull, a lovable piglet. While humorous on the surface, the story subtly reflects on identity, cultural change, and growing up in a fast-paced world.

12. Sparkling Red Star (2007)

This was a remake of the 1974 revolutionary classic. By updating the animation and streamlining the story, the film introduced new generations to wartime heroism and loyalty.

13. The Race for the Gold Monkey King (2008)

Featuring the legendary Monkey King, this adventurous tale puts a modern twist on Journey to the West. It uses vivid animation and fast-paced action to appeal to both children and nostalgic adults.

14. Storm Rider: Clash of the Evils (2008)

A rare example of martial arts animation, this film adapts the famous Storm Riderscomic. With impressive combat scenes and detailed characters, it set new standards for action-oriented Chinese animated movies.

15. The Magic Brush (2008)

An updated take on a beloved Chinese fairy tale, this film tells the story of a boy with a brush that brings paintings to life. It combined hand-drawn animation with digital effects for a visually enchanting result.

16. Old Master Q: Fantasy Zone Battle (2009)

Based on a popular comic strip, this movie takes the iconic character Old Master Q into a futuristic world. Blending slapstick comedy with science fiction, the film aimed to bring traditional humor to a younger generation.

17. A Jewish Girl in Shanghai (2009)

A historical and emotional story, this movie is based on true events during World War II. It follows a Jewish girl who finds refuge in Shanghai. The film breaks away from fantasy and dives into historical drama, highlighting China's role in sheltering refugees.

18. Kuiba (2009)

While its most well-known sequels came later, the first Kuibamovie appeared in the late 2000s. It stands out for its ambitious world-building, mythical creatures, and anime-inspired visuals. Kuibaproved that Chinese animated movies could achieve epic fantasy on par with Japanese counterparts.

19. The Dreams of Jinsha (2009)

An ambitious project set in the ancient city of Jinsha, this film combines fantasy and archaeology. Its lavish designs and historical references make it one of the most visually rich animated features from the decade.

20. Doraemon: Nobita’s Dinosaur (2006, China release)

While originally Japanese, this movie's official Chinese theatrical release marked a turning point. It helped expand interest in animation across East Asia and encouraged collaborations and competition within the Chinese industry.

A Decade of Transformation

The 2000s was a transformative period for Chinese animated movies. Studios began experimenting with new storytelling techniques, 3D technology, and cross-cultural narratives. While many films were targeted at children, there was a noticeable shift toward creating content that could resonate with families and even young adults.

A major influence during this time came from Japanese anime and Hollywood animated features. However, rather than copying, Chinese filmmakers began fusing foreign techniques with distinctly Chinese themes. Folklore, mythology, and local heroes dominated the screen, reminding audiences of their cultural roots.

The 2000s also laid the groundwork for future global successes like Ne Zhaand White Snake, which would rise in the next decade. These early works showed that Chinese animated movies were not just a niche genre but a growing force in international cinema.

As China’s animation technology advanced and audience expectations grew, the industry began to take bolder steps. New talent emerged, studios invested in higher-quality production, and stories became more layered and emotionally complex.

These 20 films not only represent the creative efforts of an evolving industry, but they also reflect China’s broader social and cultural changes. From family comedies to epic adventures and historical dramas, Chinese animated movies of the 2000s set the stage for a new golden age in animation.