Whale of Rebirth

This poetic and philosophical animated short takes viewers on an introspective journey through the cycles of life, death, destruction, and rebirth. With a dreamlike narrative, it invites reflection on the fundamental questions of existence: Where do we come from, and where are we destined to go?

Symbolizing reincarnation and nirvana, the whale serves as a vessel for the soul’s transformation and the world’s renewal. The film transcends personal emotions and memories, intertwining with the fate of humanity and the future of our planet. It is a meditative experience, urging viewers to pause, embrace the present, and find meaning in love, loss, and reconciliation.

Blending Eastern and Western philosophies and mythologies, Whale of Rebirth draws inspiration from Buddhist sutras and biblical wisdom, weaving together themes of nature, humanity, and spirituality. Beyond animation, it is a profound exploration of the human spirit—one that resonates beyond words and time, touching the core of our existence.

This is a meditative and mindfulness-themed animated short, designed for audiences of all ages—whether children or adults seeking inner tranquility. Through poetic visual storytelling, the film invites viewers to pause, embrace the present, and appreciate the beauty of life. In a fast-moving world, this film serves as a gentle awakening, guiding audiences through themes of love, loss, and rebirth, helping them find balance and deeper understanding.

THE STORY BEHIND THE FILM

Between the roots of the World Tree and the tides of the Fusang Sea, an ancient story is told.
Some say it speaks of a White Whale, guiding lost souls across the river between life and death.
Others believe it never truly appears, yet it is everywhere.
In every fall and every rebirth, in every faint light and every breath,
there is the quiet echo of the Whale—
a reminder that within impermanence, the soul will one day take flight.
The White Whale may not be a being at all,
but the awakening within us,
the silent transformation,
as we return to the boundless sky we had always belonged to.

Inspired by timeless myths from both East and West, this film weaves together elements from Journey to the West, Investiture of the Gods, Classic of Mountains and Seas, and Legend of the White Snake, alongside the profound wisdom of the Heart Sutra and Diamond Sutra. At the same time, it echoes the sacred narratives of the Bible and the legendary Yggdrasil, the World Tree from Norse mythology, symbolizing the eternal cycle of creation, destruction, and rebirth. Through this fusion of ancient traditions, the story unfolds as a bridge between cultures, exploring universal themes of destiny, enlightenment, and transcendence.