The Chinese animation film Monkey King: Hero is Back was previewed in Taiyuan, North China’s Shanxi province on July 1, and evoked enthusiasm in the audience, especially those born after the ‘80s.

A poster of Monkey King: Hero is Back

Monkey King: Hero is Back is based on the household legend of the Monkey King, but tells a not-so familiar story. However, it’s still a Chinese style heroic legend and an exciting adventure against evil and darkness in troubled times, according to the producer.

A resident of Taiyuan surnamed Zhang was one of the movie’s viewers. “I brought my child to watch this movie, but I never thought I would be obsessed by it. After crying, laughing and being shocked, the Monkey King, a part of our common childhood memories, is back,” Zhang said.

Some viewers called the film’s 3D visual effect “fantastic” and presented a “heart-stirring feeling”.

The film took eight years to make. It will open across China on July 10, both in Mandarin and Cantonese.

A poster of Monkey King: Hero is Back