Journey to the West: A folkloric style of Sci-fi

Introduction:
Overview of the rise of Chinese science fiction, influenced by the success of Liu’s "The
Three-Body Problem."
Thesis Statement: The film represents a sign of shift in Chinese sci-fi from epic narratives to
a folkloric style, reflecting a deeper exploration of Chinese cultural heritage and current societal
concerns.

I. Recent trends in Chinese Sci-fi and its lack of Chinese-ness

Chinese sci-fi has skyrocketed in popularity in recent years, propelled by the breakout
success of Liu’s “The Three-Body Problem.” His style of fiction — speculative, epic in scale, and
informed by hard science — has influenced an entire generation of Chinese writers.
The renowned Sci-fi movies in China like “The Wandering Earth” and “Shanghai Fortress”
are all adapted from Liu’s works in a similar way. This Chinese sci-fi label may be good
marketing, but it limits a genre that should be limitless. It is Chinese sci-fi’s supposed ability to
convey a certain, particularized “Chinese-ness” that makes it an object of interest to a non-Chinese
audience.

II. The Rise of "Journey to the West" and its Significance

1.Departure from epic scale to a folkloric style
The launch of the film Journey to the west marks a sign of changing style, from an epic way
to a folksier way, one that draws more heavily on China’s cultural heritage and current affairs. It’s
part of a movement to explore “what are the Chinese characteristics of sci-fi.”
Although it echos the traditional themes found in science fiction, namely humanity’s
fascination with the possibility of extra-terrestrial life, it sets its base in a few villages in northern
China. The shift in point of view from off-earth to on-earth China, the more popular,
documentary-style sci-fi makes it a break from the grandiose, high-tech sci-fi tradition.
2.Concern on social issues
Folk scientists, who were prevalent in China in the last century but became a derogatory term
nowadays, have returned to wearing their exclusive aluminium pots in the film.
3.Drawing aspiration on Chinese cultural heritage
The foursome of people who are dedicated to their quest, regardless of gains and losses, also
reflect the four master and disciples who travelled to the West to obtain scriptures, and who
eventually achieved the right result after a series of break-ups and reunions.
4.Existential themes and personal reflection in the film's conclusion
Tang understands the complexity and profundity of human self after seeing with his own eyes
the sights he has been looking forward to all his life. It is not only about what might lie in the great
beyond, but also about how his own life has panned out.

Conclusion:
Restatement of Thesis: "Journey to the West" marks a significant departure from traditional
Chinese sci-fi narratives, emphasizing cultural heritage and societal concerns.
Reflection on the broader implications of the film's style and themes for the future of Chinese
science fiction.