A poster for Master Ji Gong, an animated film about Zen monk Ji Gong, which will premier nationwide on July 16. [Photo/WeChat account: tzfb001]

Master Ji Gong, an animated film about Ji Gong, an eminent Zen monk who lived during the Southern Song Dynasty (420-479), is slated to premiere nationwide on July 16.

Born into a respected family, Ji Gong became known by the nickname "Mad Ji" for his unconventional behavior. While he is legendary for breaking the rules for monks, it is his generosity to the poor and his kindness that made him revered to this day. In life and in death, Ji Gong has inspired many legends in Taizhou's Tiantai county.

Directed by Chinese director Liu Zhijiang, the film mainly tells the story of how Ji Gong grew from a naughty boy to be a master after overcoming many hardships.

Liu rose to fame for his animated films Monkey King: Hero is Back and Havoc in Heaven.

As the chief executive producer of the film, Chinese actor Jin Dong said in an interview that Chinese parents always hide their love for their children in their hearts, adding that he hoped that the film would help people reflect on family relationships. 

Many scenes in the film were created based on scenic spots in Tiantai county, including Tiantai Mountain Cataract, the Former Residence of Ji Gong, Guoqing Temple, Shiliang Waterfall, and Huading Forest Park.

The film hopes to create a homegrown hero that Chinese children will love just like foreign favorites Ultraman and The Avengers.

A scene from the film features the Shiliang Waterfall in Taizhou's Tiantai county. [Photo/WeChat account: tzfb001]