Adapted from renowned writer Li Xintian’s novel of the same title, the animated film *Sparkling Red Star* presents a heart‑warming, colorful, and patriotic children’s story set in 1930s China. Director Lam Chiu Yin, known for *Naked Ambition and Love on the Rocks*, makes a significant departure from his previous work to showcase the grand adventures of a young comrade. Growing up amid chaos, carefree village boy Dongzi deeply admires his brave Red Army soldier father and the Red Guards who protect their village from an evil landlord. When Dongzi’s father leaves for the Long March, he gives his son a sparkling red star. This star becomes Dongzi’s protector in the years that follow, as he encounters numerous hardships and slowly...