Donkey Princess (2026)

Donkey Princess is a 2026 animated film that has garnered attention as an入围 (shortlisted) entry for the Golden Leopard Award at the Locarno Film Festival. The story begins with a classic fairy tale premise, utilizing a mysterious ring that grants wishes to transport the protagonist into the modern era. This narrative device allows for complex visual metaphors that explore themes of love, patriarchy, and the constraints placed on women, suggesting that affection can sometimes function as a disease or a trap.

The film employs animation to support its fairy-tale structure, blending imaginative visuals with a thriller-oriented climax. Critics have noted that while the initial metaphorical layers are intricate, their meaning remains somewhat ambiguous until the final segments reveal the true thematic core. The execution of the animation serves primarily to enhance the storytelling format rather than standing alone as a technical showcase, resulting in a piece that offers creative concepts but receives mixed reviews regarding its overall implementation.

• The film was shortlisted for the Golden Leopard Award at the 2026 Locarno International Film Festival.
• It features a unique blend of fairy tale elements with modern psychological thriller aspects.
• Directed by a filmmaker exploring gender dynamics through surreal visual metaphors.
• Screened at the 2026 Golden Rooster International Film Festival in Xiamen, China.
• The narrative uses time travel via a magical ring to critique patriarchal structures.