The promotional poster for Pixar film "Cars" (left) and the poster for the Chinese animated film "The Autobots." (Photo : WantChinaTimes.com)
Critics and moviegoers dismiss the latest Chinese animated film “The Autobots,” saying that it is nothing but a cheap remake of the Hollywood blockbuster “Cars” from Pixar. Netizens and movie fans are quick to point out the similar cartoon character designs and promotion posters.
At a glance, the uncanny resemblance between the promotional posters of "The Autobots" and "Cars" might make moviegoers think that the latter is being re-released in Chinese cinemas.
Subpar production value and the average quality of "The Autobots'" animation are also evident in the film's 30-second promotional trailer.
Pixar's parent corporation, the Walt Disney Company, has expressed concerns over potential copyright disputes.
"We share the same concerns as many Web users and movie fans in China, but have no further comment at this stage."
Zhuo Jianrong, the director of "The Autobots," is quick to deny accusations of plagiarism. Aside from having never watched the movie "Cars," Zhuo also said that his movie was independently produced and has a different story.
"If somebody else looks like you, does that person violate the laws?" Zhuo said.
Moviegoers and netizens are not quelled by the director's statements. For them, the similarities between the two animated feature films are far too great to be ignored. While it is possible for directors and scriptwriters to have similar ideas, the promotional materials and character design are startlingly similar.
The deteriorating quality of locally produced TV shows and films is one of the problems that the local film and TV industry in China is currently facing. As more and more Chinese people flock to the movie theaters to watch the latest films, some Chinese movie producers use the opportunity to earn quick money through poorly produced movies.
