5. "I Am What I Am 2"

A poster for "I Am What I Am 2." [Image courtesy of Beijing Splendid Culture & Entertainment]

"I Am What I Am 2," directed by Sun Haipeng, continues its predecessor's critically acclaimed journey with a modern twist on traditional kung fu. The film follows A Juan, a young man grappling with personal turmoil and financial hardship as he trains for a kickboxing competition held in Shanghai. 

Blending an inspiring tale of resilience with meticulously researched depictions of martial arts and the city's rich mix of tradition and modernity, the film's realistic animation style captivates audiences while pushing the boundaries of Chinese animation. Sun's commitment to cultural authenticity and innovative storytelling firmly establishes "I Am What I Am 2" as both a tribute to martial arts and an exploration of self-discovery.