CHAIN, a visually stunning 3D animated short film written and directed by Ling Han, is now making its way through the 2025 festival circuit. The film, which has already garnered multiple awards–including Best Animated Film at the Paris Movie Awards 2024, Grand Prize Best Animated Short at Silicon Beach Film Festival® 2024, and Best Animation at City of Angels Women’s Film Festival 2024–will be screening at Short. Sweet. Film Fest. on Friday, February 28, 2025.
Inspired by the Chinese proverb “螳螂捕蟬, 黃雀在後” (“The mantis stalks the cicada, unaware of the oriole behind”), the 5-minute animated short transforms this timeless wisdom into a visually sophisticated narrative with universal resonance. The film uses the natural world—particularly insects—to explore survival instincts and deeper philosophical themes.
“We hope CHAIN sparks reflection on the complexities of survival, pursuit, and the unforeseen consequences of one’s actions,” shares Ling. “Through our story, we want audiences to question how their own ambitions shape their decisions and whether they, too, might be caught in a cycle they can’t yet see.”
Ling, who previously worked as a 3D animator on Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Wish, brings extensive industry experience to this passion project. Unlike his work with major studios, CHAIN gave Ling complete creative freedom to explore his unique artistic vision. “This was my first time as a filmmaker and director, which made the process vastly different from my previous work.” explains Ling. “Instead of working within an established production pipeline, we had to figure things out step by step, learning and growing together throughout the journey.”
An Innovative Team
The film’s team was brought together through connections at Academy of Art University’s StudioX and personal networks, forming a diverse team of artists whose unique talents shaped the film’s final vision.
“This film wouldn’t have been possible without my amazing team,” shares Ling. “I’m so thankful for their hard work and support. Each member brought unique skills and perspectives, making CHAIN a truly collaborative effort. I hope viewers find it as engaging and thought-provoking as we intended.”
Despite facing challenges such as technical issues, time zone differences, and language barriers, the impressive team’s dedication and problem-solving ensured that their shared vision came to life. CHAIN stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, demonstrating how a collective creative effort can elevate a project beyond individual contributions.
Find more details about CHAIN, including initial character and environment designs, on the Chain Animation official website.
Get social with the team:
- Chain Animation official Instagram
- Chain Animation official Facebook
- Chain Animation official Twitter
Future Aspirations
Beyond the festival circuit, the team aims to bring CHAIN to wider audiences through online streaming platforms and serve as a stepping stone to more ambitious projects. “More than just a single project, CHAIN represents the beginning of a journey—we aim to continue creating films that explore deep themes through animation,”
Beyond its impact on viewers, the team hopes CHAIN will serve as an inspiration for “aspiring animators, proving that independent films can carry just as much emotional weight and artistic value as major studio productions.” With its compelling storytelling and innovative approach, CHAIN is only the beginning of what’s to come.
Where to Watch
Watch CHAIN at Short. Sweet. Film Fest. 2025 on Friday, February 28, 2025, or stream CHAIN online at Berlin Lift-Off Film Festival 2025 from February 24 to March 16, 2025. The film is featured under the Berlin Lift-Off’s JUDGES’ SELECT SHORTS category.
For media inquiries and interviews with writer and director Ling Han and producer and 3D-animator Tzu-Ying Ho, or if you are interested in learning more about CHAIN and viewing a private screener, contact us.
Learn more about CHAIN and its festival journey on Cinevite.
