Analyzing Cultural Translation in China's Intercultural Communication through Kung Fu Panda

Abstract

This study employs Kung Fu Panda as a case to dissect the tripartite mechanisms of cultural translation in intercultural communication:  1. Visual Layer: Integration of ink-wash aesthetics and 3D modeling to construct hyperreal Oriental imagery (e.g., topological transformations of the Jade Palace's dougong structures inspired by the Forbidden City).  2. Narrative Layer: Reframing Taoist philosophy through the Hollywood hero's journey, recoding "non-action" (wuwei) into a universal coming-of-age motif.  3. Value Layer: Modernizing cultural interpretations by grafting kung fu ethics onto individualism.  The research proposes a "Physical-Behavioral-Spiritual" triadic dynamic model: 1. Physical: Using the panda as a cognitive anchor to reduce cultural discount. 2. Behavioral: Bridging values through codified kung fu choreography. 3. Spiritual: Achieving covert cultural permeation via philosophical metaphors.  A communication formula** is formulated:  (Universal Values × Cultural Symbols) ÷ Cognitive Costs, demonstrating how the film balances core symbol stability (panda/kung fu) with limited deformation of secondary symbols (architectural patterns). This equilibrium carves discursive space within the globalization-localization dialectic, offering China a "resilient framework" paradigm for cultural dissemination—preserving genetic cultural stability while enabling creative rebirth through media grammar.