AS one of the longest-running animated film franchises in China, “Boonie Bears” will see its eighth installment shown in domestic theaters starting Feb. 1. In “Boonie Bears: Back to Earth,” the two iconic bear siblings embark on a new adventure after the younger brother accidentally acquires a mysterious power from a cube-shaped object that fall from the space, resulting in the two anthropomorphic heroes teaming up with their foe-turned friend, a bald-headed lumberjack, to face off an aggressive alien as well as an evil army equipped with high-tech weapons. Director Lin Huida said the new story has put more spotlights on the younger bear brother, an imperfect character with some shortcomings. “But he is kind-hearted and strong, and manages to overcome his fear and hesitation to become a superhero with the love and understanding from his family and friends. The transformation wishes to convey a key belief that troublemaking children could grow up to become heroes if parents choose to respect and trust them,” said Lin. Rao Shuguang, president of China Film Critics Association, said the “Boonie Bear” franchise has so far grossed 3.2 billion yuan (US$504 million) at the overall box office from the previous seven films, with the first movie “To the Rescue” released in 2014. “By incorporating various elements regarding sci-fi and prehistoric civilization, the new film has added freshness to the franchise, making it an important part propel the development of domestic animated films,” said Rao. (China Daily) | 