Oscar-winner Domee Shi says "Bao" has universal appeal

Chinese-born Canadian director Domee Shi says the Chinese elements of her Oscar-winning short film "Bao" have universal appeal.

Becky Neiman Cobb and Domee Shi, winners of Best Animated Short Film for 'Bao', in the press room during the 91st Annual Academy Awards at the Dolby Theater on Sunday February 24, 2019 in Hollywood, California. [Photo: IC]

Produced by Pixar Animation Studios, Bao won Best Animated Short Film at the 91st Academy Awards in February. Shi became the first Chinese writer and director of a Pixar short.

"Bao" explores the life of a Chinese immigrant mom living in Toronto with her inattentive husband, struggling to cope with loneliness after her beloved son flies the nest.

Born in Chongqing, Shi spent most of her life in Toronto. Shi graduated from the animation program at Sheridan College. She began as a story intern at Pixar Animation Studios in June 2011. People at Pixar began to notice her work and that boosted her confidence and helped her find her own voice.

In "Bao," Shi set out to make a short film that will profile real Chinese culture yet appeal to all audiences.

(Story includes material sourced from Xinhua)