Tom and Jerry: Forbidden Compass was written and directed by Zhang Gang, making it the first fully computer‑animated feature-length film in the franchise’s history.
Zhang Gang had previously worked on animated projects such as Kuiba 3 and No.7 Cherry Lane, and he spent nearly five years developing Forbidden Compass. His vision was to merge the classic slapstick chaos of Tom and Jerry with Chinese cultural motifs, mythology, and fantasy adventure, creating a film that celebrated the franchise’s 85th anniversary while introducing it to new audiences.
The story begins with Tom and Jerry’s chase inside a museum, where they accidentally activate a magical compass that transports them through time and into ancient China. Along the way, they encounter mystical creatures, legendary warriors, and powerful villains, forcing them to cooperate in order to survive and return home.
This adaptation is significant because it marks the first Tom and Jerry theatrical film produced in China and the third theatrical release overall, following Tom and Jerry: The Movie (1992) and the hybrid Tom and Jerry (2021). Zhang Gang’s involvement ensured that the film blended traditional slapstick comedy with modern CGI spectacle, positioning it as both a continuation of the franchise and a cultural reinvention.
In short: Zhang Gang was not only involved — he was the creative force behind Forbidden Compass, serving as both writer and director, and shaping its mythic, time‑traveling narrative.
Our favourite cat and mouse duo are off to a brand new time-travelling adventure. In the bustling heart of Manhattan, our street-smart Jerry, has developed an obsession for ancient civilisations, sneaks into the Metropolitan Museum’s blockbuster exhibition featuring the mythical “Astral Compass.” Hot on his tail is our ever persistent Tom, the museum’s newest security guard, who will do anything to stop Jerry from entering the Museum. Their chaotic chase sends the priceless compass artefact crashing to the floor, unleashing a blinding vortex that hurls them across time and space.
