This 99%-Rated Chinese 2D Film Is One of the Most Overlooked Animated Gems of the Decade

In a world of endless 3D blockbusters and computer graphics, projects that return viewers to the roots of hand-drawn animation are especially valuable.

The Chinese animated movie Nobody is a spin-off of the classic novel Journey to the West, though knowing what the original is about is not necessary.

The result is a surprisingly kind, touching, and visually stunning story about friendship, finding one's place in the world, and how anyone can become a hero.

What Is 'Nobody' About?

After being exiled from their clan, two yaoguais – Pig and Toad – devise a grand scam. Upon hearing that a Tang monk, accompanied by powerful spirits, is traveling west in search of sacred scriptures, they decide to impersonate the monk and his companions.

Pig will be Zhu Bajie; Toad will dress up as a monk; the chatty Weasel will be Sha Wujing; and, after much persuasion, the shy, clumsy Gorilla will impersonate Sun Wukong.

The group sets out ahead of their "prototypes," expecting the corresponding honors and hoping to be the first to reach the sacred scrolls.

'Nobody' Is a Visual Feast That Combines Tradition and Modernity

Nobody was created by the legendary Shanghai Animation Film Studio, a pioneer in Chinese animation. Despite its relatively low budget by today's standards, the chosen animation style imbues the movie with a wonderfully fairy-tale-like and ancient aura.

It is one of the most beautiful 2D animated films in recent years, combining traditional and modern techniques, with many of the backdrops being a true aesthetic delight.

The soundtrack combines tradition and modernity and the jokes are funny and seamlessly woven into the narrative.

'Nobody' Is Deeper And More Wholesome Than Your Average Fantasy Road Movie

Nobody is more than just a colorful and fun adventure – behind its lightheartedness and humor lies a surprisingly profound moral about sacrificing for the sake of friendship and a just cause.

The movie shows that even an insignificant character can achieve something great if they follow their path firmly. While their heroism won't be celebrated for centuries, it will prove significant to some.

Those familiar with Journey to the West, even briefly, will enjoy the references to the classic 80s TV series and legendary 60s cartoon. It also features cameo appearances by other famous characters from the novel.

Those looking for a pleasant, lighthearted yet thought-provoking movie based on Journey to the West will enjoy this one.

What Did Viewers Think of 'Nobody'?

• Nobody has 99% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.

• On IMDb, the movie has a score of 7.9/10.

• On Letterboxd, Nobody scored 4.0/5.0.