The giant panda, a global icon of conservation and biodiversity, is not only the focus of scientific and conservation efforts, but has also captured the imagination of directors and producers, starring in several film and television productions, including films and documentaries. Indeed, the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding offers an interesting insight into how these fascinating animals are represented in the media. Not only that, but on April 17, 2025, the 100-minute film Moon, directed by Gilles de Maistre and starring Liu Ye, Noé Yé, and Nina Ye, was released in theaters. It is a production of Mai-Juin Productions, Gaumont, and distributed by 01Distribution.
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Films and documentaries about the giant panda: the titles
Among film productions, there is a variety of films dedicated to the giant panda:
- PANDAS: An IMAX original film narrated by Kristen Bell, subtitled “Wild at Heart.”.
- The story of the giant panda Wu Yi.
- The miracle of life.
- Panda Creator.
- A documentary about giant pandas Kai Kai and Xin Xin traveling to Macau.
- Secrets of the Panda.
- Stories about giant panda breeding.
- The last 30 years.
- Moon – The Panda
- My Dearest Fu Bao
- 3D science fiction film "Panda Panda"“
These titles suggest a focus on different aspects of giant panda life, from their biology to breeding and international travel. Another documentary mentioned is “My Dearest Fu Bao“", which brought to the cinema "the human side of his story," raising public awareness of the importance of environmental protection. Furthermore, few people know that the brown panda Qi Zai, the only specimen in captivity with this color, made its debut "on a little joke with the Aerial China program" in 2017, increasing its popularity. In the educational and popularization fields, however, a 3D popular science film “Panda Panda“.
By watching this film, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of giant pandas, their companion animals and plants, and their habitat through an audiovisual experience. In addition, the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding, in collaboration with CCTV.com, has produced a “Report on research and learning activities on giant pandas”" consists of eight episodes, each 7-12 minutes long. This video series aims to disseminate complex scientific knowledge and important research and learning activities in an innovative way, sparking interest and enthusiasm for giant panda research. The program reveals the significance of the research and the applicability of related knowledge through interviews with experts, extending the learning experience beyond the on-site visit.
Theatrical performances
Although not films or documentaries in the strict sense, the giant panda has been represented in popular culture, through other forms of communication and media. For example, "“Fantasy”" is described as the world's first historical play about giant pandas, produced by the Base itself. The Base's Art Troupe is also responsible for creating and promoting artistic performances, including concerts and various operas.
These various media productions, ranging from scientific documentaries to television programs and even theatrical performances, highlight the giant panda's central role not only in conservation efforts but also as a cultural entity capable of attracting and informing a broad global audience. Using diverse platforms and formats, these productions contribute to disseminating knowledge and raising awareness of the importance of environmental protection and biodiversity, issues closely linked to the future of this iconic species.