Watch The Guardian Brothers

The Guardian Brothers is a beautifully animated film produced by Light Chaser Animation Studios and released in 2016. Directed by Gary Wang and written by Dan Edelstein, the movie tells a heartwarming story about two Chinese medicine spirit guardians, Yu Lei (Bai-Ke) and Shen Tu (Mike Birbiglia), who embark on an adventure to save humanity from losing its connection to the natural world.

The film’s plot takes place in both the human world and the spirit world, where the two brothers reside. Yu Lei is the younger, more impulsive of the two, who dreams of one day becoming a human. His brother, Shen Tu, is responsible for administering the medicine that keeps humans healthy, and he sees himself as a protector, rather than a hunter like his younger brother. However, the two brothers' lives are shaken when a young girl named Rainie (Eddie Peng) accidentally knocks over Shen Tu’s precious bottle of “bitter dew,” the medicine he is supposed to deliver to the humans.

The loss of the bottle causes a chain reaction that puts the natural balance of the world in danger. People stop suffering and seeking help from the spirit world and instead rely on the artificial remedies, which are wreaking havoc on the environment. The two brothers are joined by Rainie, who is on a mission of her own, to save the world from a greedy businessman (Mel Brooks), who wants to monopolize the market for medicine and exploit the people’s vulnerability.

The story is a fascinating blend of Chinese culture, folklore, and moral values, which is highly educational and entertaining for audiences of all ages. The voice acting of the characters, both in English and Mandarin, adds authenticity to the film’s setting and characters. Bai-ke, Mike Birbiglia, and Eddie Peng deliver standout performances, making the emotions of their characters feel real and relatable.

The animation in The Guardian Brothers is impressive, both in terms of its visual appeal and its ability to bring the characters to life. The movie is full of vibrant colors, breathtaking landscapes, and imaginative creatures that create a sense of awe and wonder. The scenes in the spirit world, where the two brothers live, are especially fascinating, as they showcase the richness of Chinese culture and Chinese mythology.

The movie's soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring traditional Chinese music and modern pop songs. The combination creates a refreshing blend that sets the mood for the film’s action and emotional moments.

One of the most significant themes in the movie is the importance of taking care of the environment and being in tune with nature. The film's creators send a powerful message to their audience that protecting the natural world is a task that is incumbent upon all of us. The story beautifully captures the essence of the Chinese belief in the interconnectedness of all things, and that it is not enough to merely take from nature, but to also give back.

In conclusion, The Guardian Brothers is a breathtakingly beautiful movie that is equal parts educational and entertaining. The film’s themes, characters, and visuals are designed to appeal to audiences of all ages, making it a great choice for a family movie night. The nuanced and detailed animation adds an extra layer of depth to the story, and the performances of the voice actors are outstanding. The Guardian Brothers is a must-see movie for anyone who loves animation, Chinese culture, or values the importance of protecting the environment.