Fabulous Beasts

In Fabulous Beasts, a colorful cast of characters borrows from Pixiu and other figures in Chinese myth but gets a modern redesign that makes them feel fresh and oddly familiar. The show follows these anthropomorphic "beasts" as they go about everyday life in a high-strung, often absurd world, mixing lighthearted comedy with moments of gentle warmth. Episodes lean on quick, playful gags and character-driven interactions rather than heavy plot twists, so the focus stays on personality, visual charm, and the contrast between ancient symbolism and contemporary urban problems. It’s built to be easygoing and comforting, a short, funny break from the rush of modern life.

Released in 2023, Fabulous Beasts was directed by Zhang Zhe and created by Xuexia Mao and Yaozi. The animation leans on folkloric designs updated with modern touches, and the voice cast includes Ajie, Yang Ning, Shuai Guan, Shuang Zhao, and Liu Cong, who bring the quirky creatures to life.

Critics and viewers have responded well to the series, reflected in a high user score of 8.889 out of 10 from a small sample of voters. Reviews note the show’s playful tone and visual inventiveness, pointing out how it uses mythic imagery to comment lightly on contemporary social pressure while staying upbeat and accessible.

The show’s imagery, a mash-up of traditional beast motifs and contemporary design, has encouraged fan art and discussion among animation fans interested in folklore and character design. Its cute, energetic aesthetic and relaxed humor make it easy to share clips and character sketches online, helping it build a modest but enthusiastic niche audience.

As of now, Fabulous Beasts has not been reported as a major awards contender. It seems to be finding its footing through audience appreciation and word of mouth rather than through festival or industry accolades.