What makes a story truly global? French film producer Ron Dyens thinks it’s all about universal themes that speak to the heart. In a chat with CGTN’s Zhang Xiaohe at the 12th Silk Road International Film Festival, Ron shared why great stories don’t need passports to travel.
Serving on the animation jury in Xi’an on the Chinese mainland, Ron Dyens has seen how laughter, tears, and adventure can break down walls. “Animation speaks a language we all get,” he said, noting that a well-timed laugh or an emotional twist can resonate from Paris to São Paulo.
He believes the magic lies in characters we care about and conflicts we understand—friendship, family, hope. These universal threads make films feel like home, whether you’re strolling through a Tokyo street or hanging out in Mexico City. It’s the power of storytelling to remind us that, at our core, we’re not so different after all.
For young creators and culture seekers, Ron’s advice is clear: dig deep into genuine emotions and stay curious about other traditions. “Every culture has its own treasure chest of tales,” he explained. “The trick is finding the gem that shines for everyone.”
As the Silk Road Fest wraps up, Ron Dyens’ words linger: stories can build bridges bigger than any highway. And for a digitally savvy generation hungry for connection, that’s the ultimate plot twist. 🎥✨
Reference(s):
Ron Dyens speaks on bridging cultures through universal storytelling
cgtn.com
