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Tang Lang Bu Chan
A Story in Summertime ／ Mantis catch cicadas ／ Tanglang Bu Chan ／ The Praying Mantis ／ 螳螂捕蝉
Description
A cicada rests high on a tree, chirping loudly and sipping dew, oblivious to a mantis behind it. The mantis, bending over and arching its front leg, aims to catch the cicada but does not realize that an oriole sits beside it. The bird stretches its neck, ready to peck at the mantis, while the oriole remains unaware that a weasel is sneaking up behind it. All three creatures pursue their own gains, unaware of the imminent danger lurking behind them. This short film, produced by Shanghai Animation Film Studio, employs Chinese ink‑wash painting technique and is based on the ancient Chinese fable “The mantis stalks the cicada, unaware of the oriole behind.”
