The Berlin International Film Festival has officially unveiled Xu Zao's animated cinematic creation, "Light Pillar" (also known as "Han ye deng zhu"), as a significant inclusion in its esteemed Perspectives section. This Chinese production, set against a futuristic backdrop where interstellar journeys are no longer merely aspirations, delves into the poignant narrative of a solitary custodian who finds companionship with a former feline actor. His journey takes a romantic turn within a stunning virtual realm alongside a female gamer. This film's world premiere at the Berlinale not only highlights the festival's dedication to innovative storytelling but also rounds out the complete roster of 14 inaugural feature films selected for this compelling category.
Berlinale Welcomes Xu Zao's 'Light Pillar' to its Inaugural Features Lineup
On January 29, 2026, the prestigious Berlin Film Festival enriched its Perspectives section with the addition of Xu Zao's animated feature, "Light Pillar" ("Han ye deng zhu"). This forward-looking Chinese film, produced by Xu and Da Peng at Fengduan Film, is set in a future where cosmic travel is a reality. The narrative follows a lonesome janitor, whose only companion in a declining film studio is a cat that once graced the silver screen, until he encounters romance within an enchanting virtual world. This marks the global debut of "Light Pillar."
The Perspectives sidebar, now complete with 14 first-time feature films, also features a diverse array of works. These include "Animol," a drama from "Adolescence" star Ashley Walters; Dara Van Dusen's Western "A Prayer for the Dying," featuring Johnny Flynn and John C. Reilly; and the collaborative Israel-Germany project "Where To?" by Assaf Machnes. Notably, "Light Pillar" is the second animated film to be presented in the Berlinale's main program this year, joining Yoshitoshi Shinomiya’s "A New Dawn," which will compete for an award. Xu Zao is no stranger to critical acclaim, having previously earned the Golden Dove at DOK Leipzig in 2023 for his animated documentary short, "No Changes Have Taken in Our Life." This marks the second year for the Perspectives section, initiated by artistic director Tricia Tuttle, who previously spent a decade at the BFI London Film Festival. The 76th edition of the Berlin Film Festival promises a star-studded competition, including Karim Aïnouz’s "Rosebush Pruning" with Riley Keough, Callum Turner, and Elle Fanning, Channing Tatum’s latest work "Josephine," and Kornél Mundruczó’s "At the Sea" starring Amy Adams. The festival is set to commence on February 12, with Afghan director Shahrbanoo Sadat’s romantic comedy "No Good Men" opening the event.
This announcement from the Berlinale not only underscores the festival's commitment to nurturing new voices in cinema but also highlights the evolving landscape of animated filmmaking. "Light Pillar," with its unique premise and blend of futuristic setting with human emotion, suggests a promising direction for international co-productions and innovative narrative structures. The inclusion of such diverse films enriches the festival experience, offering audiences a global perspective on contemporary cinema and the imaginative prowess of emerging directors.