As the mythology of Journey to the West has long been familiar to audiences, “Red Boy” (Hong Hai Nhi), a short 3D animated teaser recently released by DTU Silver Swallows Studio (SSS), has quickly attracted significant public attention.
Several scenes from the “Red Boy” teaser – Photo: by DTU
What makes the “Red Boy” teaser particularly noteworthy is not only its creative storytelling approach, but also the fact that the entire production was developed using Blender. Character modeling, lighting, and animation were executed with impressive precision and attention to detail. Every subtle movement and facial expression reflects strong technical control, a level of craftsmanship rarely seen in 3D animation projects produced within a university training environment.
According to the production team, the teaser is the result of several months of intensive work by a 10-member team at Silver Swallows Studio. From concept development and modeling to rigging and post-production, all stages were carried out manually, prioritizing traditional keyframe animation techniques rather than relying on automated tools.
Red Boy, a 3D animated short film produced by DTU Silver Swallows Studio
Mr. Nguyen Van Truong Son, Director of Silver Swallows Studio, shared: “When classic stories are retold in new ways, they not only bring characters back to life but also help timeless works resonate more closely with young audiences who have grown up in the digital age. Through this approach, we aim to inspire younger generations to appreciate traditional cultural values through a modern, creative, and emotionally engaging visual language.”
The production team researching and designing the “Red Boy” teaser – Photo: by DTU
Established in 2015, Silver Swallows Studio was designed as a creative practice hub for students majoring in Graphic Design, Multimedia Communications, and Journalism & Communications at DTU. The studio is equipped with advanced facilities supporting filming, image processing, 3D production, and modern filmmaking, including a professional-grade film set, a fully equipped sound recording and audio post-production room, a post-production suite, and a VFX studio.
The SSS team consists of experienced and passionate professionals who continuously take on new creative challenges to produce high-quality cinematic works that leave a lasting impression on audiences.
Following the release of “Red Boy,” the team received numerous suggestions to produce 3D animated films based on Vietnamese historical and legendary figures. In response, and as part of their long-term development plan, the studio intends to explore projects centered on iconic Vietnamese characters such as Saint Giong, Chu Dong Tu, and Mai An Tiem.
Regarding the choice of “Red Boy” at this time, the production team intentionally selected a mythological character connected to Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara (Guan Yin), an especially significant spiritual symbol for Da Nang. The Lady Buddha, the largest statue of Avalokiteshvara in Vietnam, stands at Linh Ung Pagoda on the Son Tra Peninsula.
Prior to “Red Boy,” Silver Swallows Studio had already established its reputation through several notable projects, including:
DTU Silver Swallows Studio and various stages of film production – Photo: by DTU
- Best Screenplay Award for the short film The Sweetness That Remains at the Vietnamese Short Films 2025 Competition (family-themed category).
- The 2019 theatrical release of The First Swallows, a 3D documentary recreating the historic first aerial battle at Ham Rong Bridge in 1965 between the Vietnam People’s Air Force and U.S. forces.
- Silver Award at DigiCon6 (2017) for the 3D animated film Typo Master.
With the “Red Boy” teaser, DTU Silver Swallows Studio once again demonstrates that when young talents are nurtured within a well-structured, practice-oriented academic environment, they are fully capable of producing high-quality and highly creative works with distinctive artistic identity. The project not only reflects professional dedication but also raises strong expectations for a promising new generation of Vietnamese animators steadily approaching international standards.
(Media Center)