2. 'Chang An'

A poster for "Chang An." [Image courtesy of Light Chaser Animation]

At 168 minutes, "Chang An" is not just the world's longest animated film, it is a breathtaking journey through Tang dynasty – the golden age of poetry. This epic blend of historical drama, poetic exploration, and martial arts adventure celebrates the personal journeys of iconic poets like Li Bai and Gao Shi. Directed by Xie Junwei and Zou Jing, the film delves into the poets' decades-long friendship amid the upheaval of the Tang dynasty, particularly during the An Lushan rebellion.

Set against poetic landscapes and featuring renowned poets such as Du Fu, Wang Wei, and Meng Haoran, the film elevates their lives to a grand scale. In the story, these poets were not just literary figures; they were skilled in martial arts, driven by personal ambitions, complex politics, patriotism, and even a pursuit of Taoist immortality. The film quickly became a cultural phenomenon, igniting a national frenzy to revisit these ancient poems and their creators.