User reviews

We really enjoyed this movie for its striking animation, fantastic and beautiful worlds, and likable characters. Although the original language and mythological themes are Chinese, the animation was done by Studio Mir, based in South Korea, which also worked on the Legend of Korra. Almost all of the Chinese animated epics deal with how the characters (often gods, spirits, or demigods) relate to heaven; in Big Fish & Begonia, the alternative universe is under the earth, or, more precisely, under the sea. We also noticed a lot of allusions to Studio Ghibli, above all Spirited Away, especially in some of the characters (for example the steward of souls was like a male version of the witch who runs the bathhouse). Plus the strong female lead character whose story is nevertheless closely tied to a romantic interest.

Visually pleasing and technically well executed enough, this Chinese animation started off with loads of promises but very soon fall into a narrative mess with no meaningful nor discernible plot flow, with characters introduced from nowhere then uncerimoniously dropped for no reason.

Character motivation is at best flimsy and perplexing to the point the viewer no longer has any motivation to stay engaged.

Very unfortunate this animation was decimated by the egoistic desire to show off the visual technicalities with scan attention paid to a meaningful plot with characters who can engage viewers ... instead what we have is a pointless rainbow of visuals and memes which go nowhere.

And to then get the usual bunch of paid 10* hustler-reviewers to put in their cheap adoration ... just salt into wound :(

What a missed opportunity! 😭😭😰😡😠🙁

I have not watched a film made in China for quite a long time even if I am Chinese myself. Our film industry still has a long way to go. However, I am deeply impressed by the creative story and the perfect combination of 2D and 3D animation of DaYuHaiTang, and I personally consider the film as a revolutionary art piece.

Through the story, the film emphasize the relationship of our life and our dreams. It encourages us to stick to what we eager for, to what we believe, even when the environment is against us. In the movie, Kun is the symbol of our dreams. It grows, it flies, and its life is tightly related to the one who raises it. We are born to achieve something, if the goal in our life isn't achieved eventually, our life is meaningless. Be brave and go ahead, that's what the film wants to teach us.

The movie contains many Chinese traditional elements, which has seldom been seen before. I am also glad to see that Chinese animation has finally started to focus on how to move audience emotionally. However, there are many shortcomings as well. The film has a good story, but it failed to tell it well. The plot goes too fast at the beginning, and too slow at the end. Besides, a lot of redundant words can be found during conversations. Maybe the film crew should do something about that in their next movie.

The film did a great job, but it's the audience in the cinema that let me down. I was shocked to see many people laughing mockingly at the characters at some meaningful scenes just because it seems funny to them. Some people are even insulting the film and the characters on the Internet as well. In my opinion, whether a film is good or not, it is an art piece, and it is the result of the film crew's diligence and creativity. We should talk about the strong points and drawbacks of the film objectively, not insulting it without thinking deeply. The poor moral quality of the audience can be seen in those rude remarks. The Chinese animation industry is developing rapidly, it's the audience ability to appreciate films that failed to keep up.

Full Review on my blog max4movies: The art direction and quality of Da Yu Hai Tang (international title: "Big Fish & Begonia") really help to present a fantastic view on some classic Chinese folktales. The overall narrative possibilities are amazing and could provide for so much more plot, however some key moments fall short because of mediocre pacing and/or editing, and sub-par character writing.

I had the chance to see "Big Fish and Begonia" in the cinema yesterday. I was a little bit disappointed. Liang created a beautiful fantasy world and quite an original story background. Also the animations look fantastic. There are indeed many things to like about this movie. So it's all the more of a shame that the story is not very well told. Cuts between scenes always seems to come at the wrong moment and a lot of the characters and dialogues are redundant in regard to the main story. A lot of the movie is just a chain of depictions of cute little details in Liang's fantasy world. It feels a little bit like he tries so hard to be Miyazaki that he forgets all about the plot. Because of this, it's hard to get a feel for the movie. Which is a shame because it had a lot of potential. I hope that Liang's future works will try less to be Miyazaki and dare to be more Chinese. Although this movie may not be great, it might well be the start of a new age in Chinese animation cinema. I recommend this movie to people who are hugely into Chinese cinema and/or animation films. Otherwise, wait for something more worthwhile.

I heard about Big fish & begonia (Da Hai) in 2013 and I was shocked by the 5-minute trailer at that time. At first sight I thought it was a Ghibli movie again, but then I learned about that the core story got some inspiration from some ancient Chinese proses, such as "A Leisurely Tour" by Chuang-tzu and ShanHai Jing. As a Chinese, I know I can't describe my feeling perfectly in English, but I just want to say that Big Fish & Begonia (Da Hai) is a very moving and wonderful movie which can make me cry every time. It tells a story about salvation, love and growth. It's totally Chinese, from these good pictures to the touching story. I hope one day the movie can be released in some other countries, so that more and more audience can enjoy its beauty and be moved by it.

The standard for animated excellence is usually boiled down to how well it compares to a Ghibli film. No other studio makes animated films with such vision, creativity and originality. I was shocked to find a similar work ethic in this Chinese film, and I have to say, if they keep it up, we actually might have another contender to the throne. This movie does so many things right, that I could go on and on taking up valuable site space, so I'll just condense my review to as simple a review as possible; Watch this movie by any means necessary. The animation is beautiful the story is touching, the music is transcendent. It is a marvel of modern storytelling, and it deserves to be seen by everyone with a pulse. SEE THIS MOVIE.

Seriously.

View this movie on Shout! released Blu-ray disc. I very much would love to like this movie, but creativity is one big problem here. Animations were well done but just too much like Studio Ghibli animations - including movements and features of the characters (just look at Kun sister).

There is also a problem with the story. Even though the producers/director claimed that it was "inspired" by Chinese mythology, there is nothing much recognisable for me here, even though I am Chinese. It doesn't help when help that Chun, the main character said that she don't believe in God, yet they themselves have some kind of magical powers.This magical-powered beings were just being referred as "The Other". What was that? Why with all the power they have, they couldn't stop the flood?

I also viewed the Bonus Features, and understood that it creator had been through a lot just to make the film, but that is no excuse for the convoluted script (could this be the reason why he had problem in finding investor). Is it because China is a communist country where they were warn not to lick the script with any religion? I wonder.

Yes, it got beautiful imagery, animations, and great score from Kiyoshi Yoshida. Yet, this movie is more of a copy of Studio Ghibli (especially Spirited Away! Just look at all the cute creatures). It kind of sad to see China animation ended up like that. They did much better work before. I am not surprise that it received divided reviews in China.

It's not only a movie about love,but also a movie about dedication and toredeem.It's not clearly said what it want to show,but if you see the second time,it will be better.So i think it's a good movie. Some people who only see the movie one time is hard to make a gooe comment,because it's so obscure that hard to see.Da Hai is not like the movies made by Hollywood,it like a novel more,which want the viewers to watch twice or more in order to understand it.When I see some people think the love story in the movie is very unpleasant,I really want to tell them:it's better for you to see the twice time,because it never tell a love story,but a philosophy story.

The graphics, animations and scores were very stunning- in this aspect 10/10 however the story and character developement were lacking. chun and kun's relation were clearly lacking chemistry no matter how hard the director tried. as a result, they gave us a really annoying & selfish main character. at the end of the show, i felt sad and disappointed at the same time

Beautiful animation and some pretty creative decisions wasted. Unfortunately most things that happen here are incoherent and have neither, even magical, explanation, some are repetitive and boring. This movie feels like a sequel to another movie or a tv show which set some rules, provided background to the story and explained the nature of the world.

Greetings again from the darkness. Animated films from Asia will likely always draw comparisons to the films of Oscar winner Hayao Miyazaki, the Japanese master storyteller behind Studio Ghibli and such animated classics as SPIRITED AWAY, PRINCESS MONOKE, and THE WIND RISES. Some may find it curious to mention Miyazaki when discussing a project from two first time Chinese filmmakers, but their work here is so impressive, the comparison is justified. Not only that, it's quite clear Xuan Liang and Chun Zhang have studied the master's work and are believers in his style.

As with any animated film, success can only be had when both the look and the story hold our attention. Supposedly the film took 12 years to complete, and with its intricate weaving of Chinese culture and tradition, and the dreamy visuals, we understand why. While I don't begin to understand the many references to Chinese mythologies and legends, and most of the classic Chinese literary characters are new to me, the movie has a spellbinding effect that draws us in and leaves us fascinated.

On her 16th birthday, Chun partakes in a rite of passage that involves spending 7 days in the land of humans. See, Chun is from a magical parallel world where "the others" control the human world seasons and tides. And we all know that if one is going to have control over another world, it only makes sense to have a basic understanding of that world and its inhabitants! Chun is transformed into a red dolphin and shoots through a portal into the land of humans. It's there that she is saved by a boy, whose courageous act costs him his own life when he is caught in a vortex. Chun is determined to deliver his life back to him ... remember, she is from a magical world.

The story really takes off from here and becomes an adventure filled with love and sacrifice. We are told "Some fish aren't meant to be caged, because they are meant for the sky", and it's not until the conclusion that we fully understand. Chun's mission has her crossing paths with both the Keeper of Good Souls who lives with more cats than anyone should, and a creepy Rat Lady who is the Keeper of less fortunate souls and commands an army of rats for her dirty work. This game of cat and mouse between the two factions of soul-keepers is but one of the many webs of intrigue presented in the story. As you would expect, these two parallel worlds collide and Chun, her friend Qui, and the hero human who is resurrected as a small fish named Kun are all at the center. Chun must protect Kun for his soul to survive, and this puts her in conflict with her own family who prefer the tradition of keeping the two worlds separate.

"Without happiness, what's the meaning of longevity?" This quote is at the heart of Chun's passion, and in fact, also drives her friend Qui to go above and beyond. A debt to be paid sprinkled with love and attraction adds a personal touch to the otherwise fantastical proceedings. Though the visuals are splendid and enough to keep us engaged, it's the convergence of sky and sea - and Begonia flower power - that move this from a fancy cartoon into a story with depth and meaning. Remarkably, it's the first film for these two filmmakers, though I do hope we mustn't wait a dozen years for their next.

A beautiful movie, this is rare in China in recent years，however，it was treated unfairly in china,so i come here to back Da Hai.I hope you can also love this movie. I don't want to say other words,my English is poor but 10 lines needed， so i chose to copy

I heard about Big fish & begonia (Da Hai) in 2013 and I was shocked by the 5-minute trailer at that time. At first sight I thought it was a Ghibli movie again, but then I learned about that the core story got some inspiration from some ancient Chinese proses, such as "A Leisurely Tour" by Chuang-tzu and ShanHai Jing. As a Chinese, I know I can't describe my feeling perfectly in English, but I just want to say that Big Fish & Begonia (Da Hai) is a very moving and wonderful movie which can make me cry every time. It tells a story about salvation, love and growth. It's totally Chinese, from these good pictures to the touching story. I hope one day the movie can be released in some other countries, so that more and more audience can enjoy its beauty and be moved by it.

This is one of the greatest and most beautiful Anime' films I have ever seen. This is way up there in the same league as the greatest creations from Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli like 'Spirited Away'. This is a delightful surprise coming from a Mainland China Animation Studio. Breathtakingly beautiful, magical animation! A hauntingly beautiful background score. An awesomely gripping and mesmerizingly beautiful storyline and screenplay. Absolutely brilliant English language dubbing! The intense human drama and emotional appeal of the film touches you to the core and leaves a lasting impression. Simply unforgettable! A masterpiece! Worth seeing again and again. Very highly recommended.

I am truly impressed. I cried a lot while watched this piece of art. I can't write it detailed how beautiful was the story, music and the picture as well (because of my bad English), and the music followed those. I feel like i've become more just because i watched this animation movie. I would hardly recommend to everyone.

An emotional masterpiece, Big Fish & Begonia is an artistically magical and thought provoking piece of anime. The animation is beautiful. I felt as if I was watching a classic painting come to life. The story is unforgettable. Each scene left my heart yearning for the characters to succeed.

The story follows a humble, brave girl name Chun who dedicates her life to help a kind boy, Kun, who gives his life to save hers after she travels from her magical to his human world. She goes to great lengths to bring him back and gives him all her love and care. However, when a variety of obstacles threaten Kun's survival, Chun risks everything to save him.

The animation is mystical and brings Chun's fantastical land to life. The characters from Chun's world are unique and their strange characteristics bring a special quality that is unlike other films. Many characters have a quirky addition such as antlers or a completely other-worldly face with multiple eyes. These subtle additions enhance the fresh and original elements the film specializes in. The backgrounds and scenery take the animation to the next level. The water and ocean play a huge role in the film and the animation transforms the water, displaying its beauty and importance. At night the ocean reflects the sky, its stars and the sublime hues present; while during the day it is almost invisible and many objects look like they are floating through air. One of the most notable animation feats is the scenery. In many favorite parts we see Chun running across landscapes and the camera captures her world in the most artistic way.

The emotions of this film left me in awe, showing the friendship and love these characters are capable of. In every scene, I was either smiling or in tears because of the sacrifices they make for each other and for each others' happiness. The music enhances the mood of these scenes with a mysterious and peaceful quality.

The messages of Big Fish and Begonia are: 1. If your conscience is clear, it doesn't matter what others think and 2. Follow your heart. I give this film 5 out of 5 stars and recommend it for ages 14 to 18.

Reviewed by Sahiba K., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic. For more reviews by youth, visit kidsfirst dot org.

It's 'Life, the Universe and Everything' (Douglas Adams; title only), including dolphins, yet totally different, filled with mythological Past and challenging Future, Environmental Hazards, and of course love conquers all (or does it...). Wisdom is everywhere, for those who try and seek.

Glorious film, so full of info and so many worlds and so many colours and great stuff, that these 101 minutes are filled to the rim. This movie is an Experience, boasts a great message and is a true gem, marvelous for all.

PS: Odd thing about most Reviews is the moping about not knowing about Chinese Mythology to fully appreciate this film. What a pity to look at it in that way, see it as your introduction to this vast realm of gems and beauty!

This film's main attempt is to capture that powerful feeling of love and faith from a teenager's point of view. It tells the tale of a girl from a magical world below the ocean coming to earth to experience her coming-of-age ritual, and her experience after that. Yet, this aren't the only things present in the film. Through its animation that had some hauntingly beautiful scenes that trespassed into dreamlike, and it's lofty grand scale of the saga, and it's creative characters and details, the movie executed it's tale with artful fashion. I would say just from these things that I pointed out so far, that this film is one-of-a-kind.

However, this movie is not without its flaws. As some have already pointed out, the plot or story might not be easily accessible to some. It might have some holes in the decision making in the main character or some of the others that could lead to a break in immersion. The movie might also move in quick pacing in places while slowing down into a different tempo in arcs, which might cause the effect of choppiness or spontaneity in the animation.

All in all, I think the movie is worth the experience just from the epic scale behind the film and it's authentic ideas and philosophy, which could overcome any of the flaws in the film. This is because a movie is not just about the story as it is about the how it's captured, there are many elements to film that can make up for others. It depends on the style and direction to movie was headed to and I believe this movie aimed for the idealistic and surreal expression. Therefore, I give this movie a 9 based on how I enjoyed the film and welcome everyone to experience it too.