When the cuddly giant panda “Hu Hu” appeared on the big screen in Milan, Italy, the artistic capital was swept away by a joyful wave of “Made in Sichuan” charm.
On May 12, the “Light and Shadow Sichuan: Encounter Milan” China-Italy Film and TV Promotion and Exchange & ‘Panda Project’ Screening Event was held in Milan. The film features kung fu superstar Jackie Chan teaming up with the irresistibly cute giant panda, blending the scenic beauty of Sichuan with comedy and adventure. The audience erupted in frequent laughter and applause.
From Sichuan’s Landscape to Global Screens
“This is a joyful panda for the whole world.”
“I love giant pandas. I’ve been to Chengdu before. I visited a nature reserve in Sichuan and spent a day there. The Panda Project gave me a new perspective on the Chinese spirit, and I could truly feel the care put into the film,” said Marco Zucchi, CEO of Mediterranean Cedar Entertainment, after the screening.
As the world’s first comedy film centered on giant pandas, the movie was filmed on location in Sichuan. It follows the anthropomorphized adventure of panda “Hu Hu” and features Jackie Chan in a refreshing comedic role. The laughter never stopped.
“The combination of Jackie Chan and a giant panda felt truly original,” said Italian student Natalie, a fan of Chinese culture and arts. She expressed her intention to recommend the film to friends, calling it “a perfect opportunity to learn about Chinese culture.”
The panda character “Hu Hu,” created using AIGC technology, appeared vividly lifelike—down to its fluttering fur and comical tree-climbing mishaps—sparking discussion among attendees. When they learned the creative team studied thousands of real panda videos, many remarked on the tremendous progress in Chinese filmmaking in recent years, noting that many Chinese films deserve wider exposure in Italy.
Mario, president of a local film production company, was deeply moved by the film. He praised Sichuan’s stunning ecological environment, saying the movie is “undoubtedly a symbol of peace and virtue.” He added, “I believe audiences in both China and Italy will be touched by it. This is truly a joyful panda for the whole world.”
A Golden Autumn Invitation in Chengdu
Continuing the Friendship Through the Lens
So far, The Panda Project has been distributed in 64 countries and regions, serving as a vivid example of Chinese culture “going global.”
Maria Rosa Azzolina, President of the Italy-China Friendship Association, emphasized during the panel discussion that while films from different countries reflect diverse eras and themes, “the scenarios, challenges, and messages often share universal and relevant meanings.” She expressed hope for deeper cooperation in film, suggesting more meetings and exchanges like this one in the future.
Milan City Councilor Alessandro De Chirico remarked: “China and Italy share a long history of friendship, and cultural exchange has always been the bridge between us. Today, through light, shadow, and storytelling, we continue to write this chapter of shared resonance and understanding.”
As for why The Panda Project was chosen for the screening, Mao Yumei, Deputy General Manager of Emei Film Group, explained that Jackie Chan’s martial arts, the picturesque Sichuan scenery, and the adorable giant panda together create a story that resonates emotionally with global audiences. This also perfectly reflects the Golden Panda Awards’ motto of “Harmony in Diversity, Beauty in Shared Unity.”
When the joyful laughter of the screening broke through language barriers, and Chinese and Italian filmmakers promised a future reunion in Chengdu, a new chapter in mutual cultural appreciation began quietly on screen. This September, the Golden Panda Awards will return with more excellent films like The Panda Project. The twin-city story of Sichuan and Milan is sure to continue, offering global audiences more seamless, one-take tales of friendship.