The Monkey King: Uproar in Heaven
Original Title:大暴れ孫悟空
Languages:
- French: Le roi des singes contre le palais céleste
- English: The Monkey King: Uproar in Heaven
- Russian: Сунь Укун: Бунт в небесных чертогах
- Japanese: 大暴れ孫悟空
- Chinese: 大闹天宫
"Havoc in Heaven," also known as "Uproar in Heaven," is a Chinese animated feature film directed by Wan Laiming and produced by the Wan brothers. Released in two parts, in 1961 and 1964 respectively, the film adapts the early episodes of the 16th-century Chinese novel "Journey to the West," focusing on the story of Sun Wukong, the Monkey King. The film is celebrated for its distinctive Chinese style, masterful animation, and dramatic narrative, considered a classic of Chinese animation. The animation is heavily influenced by Peking opera traditions, while the music utilizes drums and percussion. The story revolves around Sun Wukong's rebellion against the Jade Emperor of Heaven. After becoming king of the monkeys on Flower and Fruit Mountain, he obtains the magical staff Ruyi Jingu Bang from the Dragon King and rebels against Heaven after being tricked into a low-ranking position. He then proclaims himself "Great Sage Equal of Heaven" and battles against the celestial army. The film is a significant achievement in Chinese animation, gaining international recognition and inspiring numerous adaptations.