Imaginary Forces set out to recreate the film's story in a stylized, mythological way. Working closely with Rob Cohen, the design team composed scenes similar in style to a graphic novel, building tension and transitions using brushstroke silhouettes of recognizable characters from the film, with 3D models provided by Rhythm & Hues and Digital Domain. The IF designers also shot real paint splatters and brushstrokes to stay true to a hand-painted aesthetic.
IF also consulted master calligrapher T.Z. Yuan for the ink brush writing, to achieve a level authenticity amidst the fantastical elements of the film. The sequence was built around the Chinese calligraphy of the five elements -- water, wood, earth, metal and fire.
