In May 2025, Elena Sunbeam, Director of the World Content Market – Moscow, had the honor of serving as a jury member for the final round of the “Golden Monkey King” Awards at the China International Cartoon and Animation Festival (CICAF) in Hangzhou – one of the most prestigious animation events in Asia. She also presented awards during the official ceremony on 29th May 2025.
“It was a pleasure to screen so many outstanding animated works – many of which are already enjoying great popularity beyond China,” Elena shared. “These stories, rich in imagination and emotional depth, demonstrate the extraordinary creative power of Chinese animation today.”
During her stay in Hangzhou, Elena held discussions on international cooperation in the animation sector. Her speech at CICAF focused on the rapid rise of Chinese animation in Russia – a trend that continues to gain momentum. Elena shared insights into how major Russian TV channels and OTT platforms are increasingly acquiring Chinese animation. National Media Group, one of Russia’s largest media holdings, purchased over 130 Chinese titles (including animation titles) in 2025 for 11 of its most popular channels. Leading children’s channel Carousel, part of Channel One Worldwide, broadcasts titles from top Chinese studios such as Wingsing Animation, Alpha Group, Fantawild Animation, and Guangzhou Lotta Animation.
She also noted that Chinese animation is in high demand on all major Russian OTT platforms. Shows like “Go Go Bus,” “Boonie Bears,” “Go Go Dino,” and “The Tales of Wonder Keepers” are appreciated for their universal themes of friendship, adventure, and folklore. Titles rooted in Chinese mythology like “Nezha,” “White Snake,” and “New Gods: Yang Jian” have found resonance with Russian audiences.
2024-2025 being the official China-Russia Years of Culture has created a strong foundation for cross-border collaboration. Elena emphasized that this climate is driving co-productions, rights acquisitions, and new ventures. Many promising projects were also showcased at the World Content Market – Moscow, such as “Mongo” by Wingsing Animation and “Go Go Dino – Season 10” from Lotta Animation, both generating strong interest among Russian buyers.
At the CICAF Forum in Hangzhou, Elena Sunbeam was invited to comment on three standout animated works. As an expert in international content and a jury member, she praised “Super Rally: Mystery of Two Planets” for its thrilling action, sports inspiration, and messages of teamwork and environmental awareness. She described “Memory” as a powerful, artistically subtle war story that honors collective sacrifice and patriotism. Finally, “Adventure of Ningde’s Sea and Mountain: The Blue Ranch” was highlighted for its social relevance, emotional depth, and innovative storytelling blending folklore with real-life environmental themes.
Elena’s role at CICAF 2025 marked a celebration of creativity and a meaningful step in strengthening Chinese-Russian cooperation in animation. Through the World Content Market – Moscow, she continues to support Chinese content creators in building partnerships with key players in the Russian market, helping great stories from China reach new audiences across borders.
