When I Became a Butterfly

In a small Chinese city, a middle-aged man, haunted by the loss of his son in a tragic accident, struggles with his grief and the mundane realities of his life. He encounters a variety of people, each grappling with their own existential crises and searching for meaning. The film explores themes of loss, memory, and the search for connection in a rapidly changing world, using a unique blend of dark humor and poignant observation.

Liu Jian's 'When I Became a Butterfly' was met with critical acclaim for its distinctive animation style and profound exploration of universal human themes. Reviewers praised its understated yet powerful storytelling, finding resonance in its portrayal of everyday struggles and the quiet search for hope amidst despair. While not a box office phenomenon, it garnered a dedicated following among arthouse cinema enthusiasts.

• Praised for its unique, hand-drawn animation and melancholic yet beautiful visual style.

• Appreciated for its subtle exploration of grief, memory, and the search for meaning in life.

• Noted for its quiet, observational narrative that avoids easy answers.

Google audience: Google users generally found the film to be a thought-provoking and visually distinct experience, appreciating its mature handling of complex emotional themes and its artistic animation. Some viewers noted its slow pace and melancholic tone, but the overall sentiment was positive, with many commending its emotional depth and artistic merit.

Selected for the Official Competition at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival.

Director Liu Jian personally oversaw much of the animation, which features a distinctive, textured, and often somber visual aesthetic that reflects the film's thematic concerns.