The Storm

The Storm follows Daguzi, a man crushed by poverty, who finds a drifting child named Mantou along a riverbank. He welcomes Mantou into his life and treats him as a son, offering warmth, guidance, and protection in a world that feels unforgiving. As floods and urban ruins loom, the pair relies on each other for safety and hope. The film paints a world where generosity can be a lifeline, and small acts of care illuminate a path through danger and doubt without heavy melodrama. As their bond grows, they encounter neighbors who test trust and a city that treats the vulnerable with neglect. The animation blends stark, rain soaked cityscapes with dream sequences that hint at hopeful futures for all.

Directed by Busifan, The Storm released in 2024 as an original animated feature. It blends fantasy and action with a focus on intimate character moments, anchored by voice performances from Chen Hao as 大谷子 and Xingliner as 柳子彦 / 小戏伶.

Box office data for The Storm is not publicly available, which often signals a limited release or modest earnings. No worldwide gross is disclosed, and distributors have not released a final tally. The animation also blends brushwork with digital lighting.

Awards: As of now, there are no widely reported nominations or wins for The Storm. The production is noted primarily for its animation style and cast performances, with critics highlighting bold color palettes, fluid movement, and the emotional resonance of its core relationships in regional outlets worldwide for regional screenings.

Early reactions praise its vibrant visuals and kinetic action that pair with a quiet emotional core. The story centers on poverty, the making of a found family, and the moral weight of helping others when every day is a struggle, offering hope to hopeful viewers that resonates with older audiences.