Animation Magazine

Author: Mercedes Milligan

  • Trailer: Fully-Animated ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid’ Debuts on Disney+ in December

    Trailer: Fully-Animated ‘Diary of a Wimpy Kid’ Debuts on Disney+ in December

    Disney+ today released the trailer for Diary of a Wimpy Kid, the all-new, fully-animated adventure based on the first book in Jeff Kinney’s worldwide best-selling series. Arriving just in time for the holiday season, fans can catch their favorite middle school misfits when the movie premieres December 3.

    Diary of a Wimpy Kid
    Diary of a Wimpy Kid

    Greg Heffley is a scrawny but ambitious kid with an active imagination and big plans to be rich and famous – he just has to survive middle school first. To make matters worse, Greg’s lovable best friend Rowley seems to coast through life and succeed at everything without even trying! As details of his hilarious – and often disastrous – attempts to fit in fill the pages of his journal, Greg learns to appreciate true friends and the satisfaction that comes from standing up for what is right.

    Directed by Swinton Scott (Futurama) and written and produced by Jeff Kinney, Diary of a Wimpy Kid features the voices of Brady Noon (The Mighty Ducks: Game Changers) as Greg Heffley, Ethan William Childress (mixed-ish) as Rowley Jefferson, and Chris Diamantopoulos (Silicon Valley) as Frank Heffley.

    Diary of a Wimpy Kid
    Diary of a Wimpy Kid
  • Exclusive Clips: Nickelodeon Scares Up New ‘Rugrats’ & ‘Patrick Star’ Specials for Halloween

    Exclusive Clips: Nickelodeon Scares Up New ‘Rugrats’ & ‘Patrick Star’ Specials for Halloween

    Trick-or-Nick! This Friday, October 22, fright fans and toon fanatics can click over to Nickelodeon to catch brand-new 30-minute Halloween-themed episodes of the rebooted Rugrats and SpongeBob spinoff The Patrick Star Show. To celebrate the occult occasion, we’re offering a screaming sneak peek at both specials, plus a behind-the-scenes look at how the the mad stop-motion scientists at Screen Novelties created a felted Frankenstein tale for SpongeBob, Patrick and Plankton … if you dare to cast your eyes upon them!

    Rugrats “The Werewoof Hunter” – Tommy needs his friends’ help to save Angelica after she turns into a werewolf at a scary Halloween party where their parents seem to be disappearing one by one. The episode is now available on Paramount+, and will air on Nickelodeon on Friday, October 22 at 8:30 p.m. (ET/PT).

    The Patrick Star Show “Terror at 20,000 Leagues” – Patrick goes on a spooky adventure for Halloween, with a mix of stop-motion, puppets and 2D animation. The half-hour episode will air on Nickelodeon on Friday, October 22 at 7 p.m. (ET/PT).

    Los Angeles-based Screen Novelties produced the special, in which miniature puppets and sets bring the series and characters to life in three dimensions. They also produced two original Halloween-themed shorts for the series, which premiered last Friday.

    It took two main stages and two ancillary stages running for several months to create the nearly 12 minutes of footage in “Terror at 20,000 Leagues.”

    "Terror at 20,000 Leagues" storyboard (Screen Novelties)
    “Terror at 20,000 Leagues” storyboard (Screen Novelties)
    Patrick replacement heads; "Terror at 20,000 Leagues" (Screen Novelties)
    Patrick replacement heads; “Terror at 20,000 Leagues” (Screen Novelties)
    An animator swaps Patrick's eyes; "Terror at 20,000 Leagues" (Screen Novelties)
    An animator swaps Patrick’s eyes; “Terror at 20,000 Leagues” (Screen Novelties)

    Dr. Plankenstein’s castle is a sandcastle somewhere on the spooky outskirts of Bikini Bottom and the “forest” around the castle is made of those “drip castles” often made on the beach as kids.

    Dr. Plankenstein's castle set; "Terror at 20,000 Leagues" (Screen Novelties)
    Dr. Plankenstein’s castle set; “Terror at 20,000 Leagues” (Screen Novelties)

    The special features … oatmeal! It took about six different formulas to come up with visually satisfying, animatable oatmeal. Real oats were mixed with wax, classic “elementary school science project” slime, and other secret ingredients. Then the animation took days to accomplish, so it had to hold its shape for many hours at a time.

    The Patrick Star Show "Terror at 20,000 Leagues"
    The Patrick Star Show “Terror at 20,000 Leagues”
  • Tubi Grooves into Adult Toons with Debut Original ‘The Freak Brothers’

    Tubi Grooves into Adult Toons with Debut Original ‘The Freak Brothers’

    Tubi, the AVOD division of FOX Entertainment, is hoping the grass is greener on the adult animation side of the fence, anchoring its expansion into this space with its first-ever original animated series, The Freak Brothers. Based on the cult classic underground comix, the star-studded toon debuts with two episodes on Sunday, November 14.

    “We can’t wait for Tubi viewers to freak out to The Freak Brothers, with its unforgettably irreverent comedy infused with heart, alongside an iconic ensemble voice cast and a stellar team of elite producers and writers,” said Adam Lewinson, Chief Content Officer, Tubi. “This comedy is 50 years in the making and we are thrilled to have it debut on Tubi as our first original animated comedy, marking a new step for Tubi as we expand our adult humor offerings.”

    The eight-episode series chronicles the escapades of a trio of stoner anti-establishment characters and their cat who wake up from a 50-year nap after smoking a magical strain of weed in 1969, and must adjust to life with a new family in present-day San Francisco. Season 1 episodes will drop weekly on Sundays through to the finale on Sunday, December 26.

    The Freak Brothers all-star voice cast includes Woody Harrelson (The Hunger Games franchise, Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri), Emmy Award and Golden Globe winner John Goodman (The Big Lebowski, Monsters, Inc.), Emmy Award and Grammy Award winner Tiffany Haddish (Girls Trip, The LEGO Movie 2) and Pete Davidson (Saturday Night Live, The King of Staten Island), the series follows laid-back Freewheelin’ Franklin Freek (Harrelson), man-child Fat Freddy Freekowtski (Goodman), paranoid Phineas T. Phreakers (Davidson) and their sardonic cat, Kitty (Haddish).

    The series also stars Adam Devine and Blake Anderson, who serve as executive producers, as well as Andrea Savage, La La Anthony and Rapper ScHoolboy Q. Devine and Anderson voice Chuck and Charlie, a couple of weed savants always looking for the next side hustle, with hearts of gold hidden beneath their unwashed exteriors. Savage voices Harper, a no-nonsense techie who undoubtedly wears the pants in her household. Anthony voices Gretchen, a social-advocate lawyer who is the more idealistic and compassionate younger sister of Harper. ScHoolboy Q voices an animated version of himself who finds himself surrounded by “The Freaks.”

    On Sunday, Nov. 14, TV viewers will get a sneak peek at The Freak Brothers during a special 90-second trailer airing during FOX’s “Animation Domination” block during Family Guy (9:30-10:00 p.m. ET/PT).

    “As we continue our expansion into original animation, a cornerstone of the FOX brand, we’re thrilled Tubi is joining the party with its first original animated series,” said Michael Thorn, President of Entertainment, FOX Entertainment. “With its counterculture roots, anti-establishment comedic POV and, as Adam said, an all-star team of cast and producers, The Freak Brothers is the perfect complement to Animation Domination and provides the ideal opportunity to not only grow Tubi’s audience, but take the animation genre to the next level in AVOD. Stay tuned for more original Tubi animated content soon.”

    The Freak Brothers is based on Gilbert Shelton’s The Fabulous Furry Freak Brothers. Critiquing the Establishment, while satirizing counterculture at the same time, the comic sold more than 45 million copies in 16 languages and was hailed by The Comics Journal as “One of the 100 Greatest Comics of the Century.” Starburns Industries and Pure Imagination Studios, the studios behind Rick and Morty and The Simpsons: Brick Like Me, handled the animation. The series is produced by WTG Enterprises and distributed by Lionsgate.

    “We’re pleased to partner with FOX and Tubi on a new paradigm for distributing original animation to our consumers,” said Lionsgate President of Worldwide Television Distribution Jim Packer. “The timeless humor of ‘The Freak Brothers’ has resonated with audiences for years, and this edgy comedy gives it a fresh and inventive spin for a whole new generation of fans.”

    The Freak Brothers is executive produced by Courtney Solomon (AFTER, Mr. Church, Cake) and Mark Canton (POWER UNIVERSE, 300, Den of Thieves), along with award-winning producers Alan Cohen and Alan Freedland (King of the Hill, American Dad!). Harrelson, Haddish, Davidson, Devine, Anderson, Shelton and Manfred Mroczkowski also serve as executive producers on the series.

    The theme song was created and performed by TDE recording artist Ray Vaughn. Anthony “Top Dawg” Tiffith, the Grammy Award-winning producer and founder of TDE, one of the most notable music labels, produced the music for The Freak Brothers and is an executive producer on the series, along with Mike Concepcion.

    www.thefreakbrothers.com

  • First Look: ‘Dogs in Space’ Blasts Off on Netflix Nov. 18

    First Look: ‘Dogs in Space’ Blasts Off on Netflix Nov. 18

    Netflix is ready to add some new stars to its animated comedy constellation as Dogs in Space readies for launch! The streamer dropped the trailer and first look images today, revealing that the original 2D family series (10 x 19′) will take off on November 18 — to boldly go where no good boys have gone before.

    Dogs in Space
    Dogs in Space

    In the not-so-distant future, genetically enhanced dogs are sent across the universe in search of a new home for the human race. It’s a giant cosmic game of fetch, as the canines seek a planet that will save humanity — and, more importantly, let them return to their beloved owners.

    The voice cast features Haley Joel Osment as Garbage, Sarah Chalke as Stella, Kimiko Glenn as Nomi, Chris Parnell as Ed, David Lopez as Chonie,William Jackson Harper as Loaf and JP Karliak as Happy.

    Dogs in Space
    Dogs in Space

    Dogs in Space hails from first-time series creator Jeremiah Cortez, who serves as co-showrunner alongside exec producer Adam Henry (She-Ra and the Princesses of Power, Random! Cartoons).

    Dogs in Space
    Dogs in Space

    The series is produced in partnership with Atomic Cartoons (The Last Kids on Earth, Hilda), with Jennifer Twiner McCarron, Matthew Berkowitz and Kristin Cummings as exec producers for the studio.

    Dogs in Space
    Dogs in Space
  • Iwerks-Inspired Short ‘Danse Macabre’ Brings Halloween Spirit to Alamo Drafthouse

    Iwerks-Inspired Short ‘Danse Macabre’ Brings Halloween Spirit to Alamo Drafthouse

    Since setting up shop as a single-screen theater in Austin, Texas, the Alamo Drafthouse has built a reputation as a hub for cinephiles and expanded its distinct moviegoing experience to dozens of locations across the U.S. This month, the Alamo cinemas are bringing the spirit of classic cartoons back to the big screen with Danse Macabre, a seasonally spooky new animated short from director Dawn Brown and her studio, The Monster Shop.

    Danse Macabre is a stop-motion tribute to the classic hand-drawn short Skeleton Dance (1929), directed by Ub Iwerks and produced by Walt Disney, as well as a nod to stop-motion monster master Ray Harryhausen. To recreate the bone-clattering chorus line, Brown used one hand-crafted skeleton puppet and moved the camera four times for each shot. The two-minute film also brings to life a skulking werewolf, spider and bats under the full moon’s light.

    The short is screening exclusively as part of the Alamo Drafthouse Cinema Preshows with the Halloween-appropriate titles Lamb, Halloween Kills and Ghostbusters Afterlife (opening Nov. 19).

    Danse Macabre
    Danse Macabre

    A lifelong fan of comic books and monster movies, Dawn Brown has worked in the art departments for some of Hollywood’s biggest feature films alongside award-winning designers and directors, including J.J. Abrams, Steven Spielberg and David Fincher. She has designed sets and created concept artwork for major motion picture franchises including Pirates of the Caribbean, Transformers, Star Trek, X-Men and The Hunger Games as well as upcoming Disney+ event series Obi-Wan Kenobi. With The Monster Shop, Brown has moved into the directors chair on live-action and animated projects including the award-winning short Zooland, award-winning webseries House of Monsters and SYFY bumper “Space Monkey.”

    www.themonstershopinc.com | https://drafthouse.com

    Danse Macabre
    Danse Macabre
  • WarnerMedia, Think Tank Launch Digital Arts Scholarships for Underrepresented Canadians

    WarnerMedia, Think Tank Launch Digital Arts Scholarships for Underrepresented Canadians

    WarnerMedia Access Canada has partnered with Think Tank Training to sponsor five full-time tuition scholarships for the Think Tank Online 16-month Digital Asset Creation Program. The Doers and Dreamers Digital Arts Scholarships are open to people of all genders, abilities and identities from underrepresented communities in Canada, including members of Indigenous, Black and racialized groups, people with disabilities, LGBTQ2+ and Francophone minority communities.

    The Think Tank Online 16-month Digital Asset Creation Program aims to advance the careers of students in television, feature film, visual effects or video games through the opportunity to develop their digital art skills. Think Tank’s programs are carefully structured to support creative growth from day one, with a focus on transformation and industry preparation, and other crucial skills to building a career in the entertainment industry.

    “We know that there are big challenges in the world when it comes to equity, inclusion and diversity and we want to be a part of making positive change in this area. In fact, the philosophy for Think Tank is that we – including our students – would rather change the world than simply be a part of it,” said Scott Thompson, Think Tank’s owner. “We are excited to partner with WarnerMedia Access Canada on this scholarship program. This scholarship will provide five talented individuals from underrepresented communities with the ability to hone their creative skills and talent. We look forward to reviewing the applications for these scholarships.”

    “WarnerMedia is a tech-forward company that is actively seeking talent from around the world, and this wonderful partnership just makes perfect sense,” said Deanna Cadette, Executive Director, WarnerMedia Access Canada. “The careers of the future require the powerful combination of creativity and technology, so we’re very proud to work with Think Tank to find those innovative Doers and Dreamers in underserved communities across the country.”

    Scholarship Details: Think Tank Training Centre is looking for the next generation of visionaries who want to shape the world – individuals who want to revolutionize the industry by doing things that no one has done before. They are not just looking for great people; they are looking for people the world can’t do without.

    The scholarship award-winners will develop marketable skills, benefit from mentorship opportunities, and gain unprecedented connections to industry knowledge from the Think Tank community and WarnerMedia Access Canada executives and creatives.

    See rules and regulations for the scholarship and apply at https://doersanddreamers.tttc.ca.

  • Funimation Bringing ‘Eureka Seven Hi-Evolution’, ‘Sing a Bit of Harmony’ to Cinemas

    Funimation Bringing ‘Eureka Seven Hi-Evolution’, ‘Sing a Bit of Harmony’ to Cinemas

    Funimation is releasing Eureka: Eureka Seven Hi-Evolution, the third and final installment in the film trilogy, for the revolutionary mecha franchise Eureka Seven in theaters in the U.S. and Canada, Australia and New Zealand in 2022. The company also updated fans that the previously announced Sing a Bit of Harmony will be in theaters in the U.S., Canada, U.K., Ireland, Australia and New Zealand January 2022.

    Eureka: Eureka Seven Hi-Evolution is set after the events of the previous film. Eureka has lived alone in atonement for 10 years, hated by the world and blamed for the chaos that destroyed everything. In a fateful encounter, she receives an order to protect Iris, a new “Eureka,” who has the ability to produce Scab Corals. It’s a fateful meeting between the former Eureka, who has lost her powers, and Iris, who fears her powers. When Eureka is asked to put her life on the line as a new crisis arises, will Eureka have the strength to protect Iris and the world? Waiting for Eureka at the end of her final journey with Iris is “a girl’s end” and “a girl’s beginning,” where the future carved out by Hi-Evolution awaits.

    Eureka Seven Hi-Evolution is directed by Tomoki Kyoda, written by Kyoda and Yuichi Nomura and produced by studio Bones. The third film once again features music by Naoki Sato.

    Eureka Seven Hi-Evolution
    Eureka Seven Hi-Evolution

    Sing a Bit of Harmony tells the story of the beautiful and mysterious Shion (voiced by Tao Tsuchiya) who transfers to Keibu High School where she quickly becomes popular for her open-hearted personality and exceptional athletic talent… but she turns out to be an AI in the testing phase! Shion’s goal is to bring chronic loner Satomi (Haruka Fukuhara) “happiness.” But her strategy is something no human would expect: she serenades Satomi in the middle of the classroom. After finding out that Shion is an AI, Satomi and her childhood friend, engineering geek Toma (Asuka Kudo), steadily warm up to the new student. Along with the popular and attractive Gotchan (Kazuyuki Okitsu), the strong-willed Aya (Mikako Komatsu), and judo club member “Thunder” (Satoshi Hino), they become more and more moved by Shion’s singing voice and earnestness even as her antics bewilder them. But what Shion does for Satomi’s sake ends up involving them all in some serious pandemonium… Get ready for the heartwarming story of a not quite market-ready AI and her classmates!

    Sing a Bit of Harmony is written and directed by Yasuhiro Yoshiura, who took home the “Excellence Award” at the Japan Media Arts Film Festival’s animation division for his work on Patema Inverted: Beginning of the Day, and the “Best Anime Award” at the Tokyo International Anime Fair’s OVA division for Time of Eve. The film is co-produced by Funimation, with animation production by J.C.STAFF.

    Sing a Bit of Harmony
    Sing a Bit of Harmony
  • Trioscope Secures $5.25M Animation Tech Investment Led by BITKRAFT

    Trioscope Secures $5.25M Animation Tech Investment Led by BITKRAFT

    Groundbreaking entertainment content and technology company Trioscope, recognized for its proprietary animated drama engine, announced it raised $5.25 million led by BITKRAFT Ventures, a venture capital firm focused on gaming, esports and interactive media. Sony Innovation Fund, Transcend Fund, Cordillera Investment Partners and Thomas Vu/Axis Mundi Capital participated.

    Trioscope will use the investment to expand its U.S. and worldwide business; focus on boosting its original IP and content; and productize its enhanced animation technology toolset for global third-party creators and studios to produce content through licensing agreements. The company expects to launch a new platform licensing offering in 2022 with an initial network of international studio partners.

    Helmed by L.C. Crowley, Greg Jonkajtys and Brandon Barr, Trioscope describes its platform as ‘animation: all grown up,’ blending a moving graphic-novel aesthetic with a photoreal level of emotion as seen in the Netflix hit series The Liberator. Upcoming projects include unannounced series with Netflix, Showtime and CBS Studios, and collaborations with renowned talent, such as actor and producer Ethan Hawke; writer, screenwriter and producer George R.R. Martin; and actor and director Vincent D’Onofrio.

    “Trioscope pioneered a new genre of synthetic reality animation that stands out for today’s audiences and streaming platforms,” said Scott Rupp, Founding General Partner of BITKRAFT. “Their technology leverages the cloud to lower costs, enable faster and more flexible virtual productions, and deliver epic emotional resonance by integrating live-action human performance into graphically compelling 3D worlds.”

    “In just a short time, our company’s vision has propelled a patented platform that fuses live action with animation in a novel way, stoking the imagination and talent of seasoned and emerging creatives,” said L.C. Crowley, Co-Founder & CEO of Trioscope. “Our partnership with BITKRAFT, Sony Innovation Fund and our other investors gives us the support to further expand our tech-driven, content-rich business.”

    Gen Tsuchikawa, Chief Investment Manager for Sony Innovation Fund and CEO & Chief Investment Officer for Innovation Growth Ventures, added, “Trioscope’s live-action/animation hybrid technology represents a new genre of entertainment and will allow studios to bring more content to audiences by helping to minimize budget, timing and location constraints. We believe the Trioscope team is differentiated in its technology, capability and know-how and can make an impact in driving new levels of emotion in dramatic storytelling and beyond.”

    The news follows an already busy year for the Los Angeles-based Trioscope, which has seen rapid growth, having launched Trioscope Europe in 2020 as a joint venture with Polish visual effects studio Juice. In addition to launching The Liberator on Netflix, which reached #3 worldwide for the platform, the company recently finished production on the short film Night of the Cooters, which is produced with George R. R. Martin and stars Vincent D’Onofrio, who also serves as the director. Additionally, Trioscope has partnered with Dark Horse Comics, Oni Press, Netflix and A&E Studios for unannounced projects and announced a television development and production partnership with major music powerhouse Quality Control.

    Digital entertainment veteran and former Mondo Media CEO John Evershed advised Crowley and the Trioscope team on the raise.

  • VIEW Conference Adds Virtual ‘Encanto’ Session, Houdini & Epic Games Reveals

    VIEW Conference Adds Virtual ‘Encanto’ Session, Houdini & Epic Games Reveals

    Building on its robust hybrid program for 2021, Italy’s VIEW Conference (Oct. 17-22) has announced a special virtual presentation on the making of Disney’s upcoming animated feature Encanto; plus a big reveal from SideFX software and a flurry of presentations from Epic Games.

    Scheduled for Friday, October 22 at 12 p.m. PDT, the Encanto panel will include director Byron Howard, production designer Ian Gooding and assistant production designer Lorelay Bové, who will take VIEW Conference attendees behind the scenes on the making of the film, with a special emphasis on Encanto‘s vibrant visuals. Following the presentation, Carolyn Giardina of The Hollywood Reporter hosts an exclusive Q&A with Howard and his creative team.

    Encanto introduces us to the Madrigals, a remarkable family living in an enchanted town hidden away in the mountains of Colombia. Every member of the Madrigal family is blessed with a special power except one, Mirabel (Stephanie Beatriz). With original songs by the award-winning Lin-Manuel Miranda, Encanto invites audiences to follow Mirabel on her extraordinary quest to save the magic of Encanto itself. The film arrives in theaters November 24. (Read all about it in the December ’21 issue of Animation Magazine, available soon!)

    On Monday, October 18, SideFX will officially reveal Houdini 19, launching a specially curated set of Houdini HIVE presentations. Back-to-back talks by a range of visual effects professionals explore the capabilities of the new software, focusing on new features and improvements to KineFX, Muscles & Tissue, Crowds, Solaris, Karma, Modeling, Pyro FX, FLIP Fluids, Vellum, RBD Destruction, FEM, Grooming, PDG and more.

    VIEW Conference 2021 will also host a suite of talks by interactive entertainment and 3D engine pioneers Epic Games. Presentation topics include animation and rigging techniques in Unreal Engine and getting to grips with MetaHuman Creator, plus demonstrations of Unreal Engine 5 and Megascans. Marc Petit, Unreal Engine VP and general manager, joins Epic Games executive producer Karen Dufilho for a talk entitled Short Term Wins, Long Term Thinking, while Epic Games education partner manager Mark Flanagan discusses career opportunities in the world of real time.

    The event’s educational track continues with a workshop on Foundry‘s look development and lighting software Katana, and a talk about unlocking creativity with the company’s 3D texture painting software Mari. Meanwhile Adobe presents a workshop on its texturing software Substance 3D, and an enlightening encounter with Adobe VP of 3D & Immersive Sébastien Deguy who is in virtual conversation with Academy Award-winner Glenn Entis.

    “VIEW Conference has always placed great emphasis on the importance of education, and on the value of sharing knowledge,” says Conference Director Dr. Maria Elena Gutierrez. “This year is no exception. I am so excited that we are able to host these incredible Houdini HIVE presentations, and such an amazing series of sessions with Epic Games, not to mention the dozens of other talks and workshops by so many gifted artists and developers. If knowledge is power, then I can truly say that VIEW Conference 2021 is our most powerful event yet.”

    Register free for VIEW Conference 2021 Live at www.viewconference.it/pages/registration.

  • LAIKA’s ‘ParaNorman’ Resurrects on the Big Screen November 16

    LAIKA’s ‘ParaNorman’ Resurrects on the Big Screen November 16

    Following the success of bringing fan favorite Coraline back to theaters, Fathom Events, LAIKA, Shout! Factory and Park Circus announce that tickets are on sale now for the second event in the LAIKA Studios 15th anniversary celebration, ParaNorman. On Tuesday, November 16 at 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. (local time), the lauded stop-motion animated film will be presented in select cinemas nationwide, featuring exclusive bonus content that reveals the unique creative process behind LAIKA’s extraordinary movies.

    Tickets can be purchased at FathomEvents.com and participating theater box offices now. For a complete list of theater locations, visit the Fathom Events website (participating theaters are subject to change).

    ParaNorman features a stellar voice cast including Kodi Smit-McPhee, Tucker Albrizzi, Anna Kendrick, Casey Affleck, Christopher Mintz-Plasse, Leslie Mann, Jeff Garlin, Elaine Stritch, Bernard Hill, Jodelle Ferland, Tempestt Bledsoe, Alex Borstein and John Goodman. The film was produced by Arianne Sutner and Travis Knight, written by Chris Butler, and directed by Sam Fell and Chris Butler.

    The comedy thriller’s story centers on a small town under siege by zombies. Who can the town call? Only misunderstood local boy Norman, who is able to speak with the dead. In addition to the zombies, he’ll have to take on ghosts, witches and, worst of all, grown-ups, to save his town from a centuries-old curse. But this young ghoul-whisperer bravely summons up all that makes a hero – courage and compassion – as he finds his paranormal activities pushed to their otherworldly limits.

  • Trailer: ‘Marvel’s Hit-Monkey’ Quests for Revenge on Hulu Next Month

    Trailer: ‘Marvel’s Hit-Monkey’ Quests for Revenge on Hulu Next Month

    Payback is a beast in Marvel’s Hit-Monkey, the all-new Hulu Original adult animated series ready to hit screens with a vengeance next month. The streamer today unveiled the official trailer and key art as it readies for the full season (10 episodes) premiere on November 17.

    After a Japanese snow monkey’s tribe is slaughtered, he joins forces with the ghost of an American assassin and together, they begin killing their way through the Yakuza underworld.

    Marvel’s Hit-Monkey features the voices of George Takei, Jason Sudeikis, Olivia Munn, Ally Maki, Nobi Nakanishi and Fred Tatasciore. The series is co-created and executive produced by Josh Gordon & Will Speck; exec produced by Joe Quesada.

    Read more about Marvel’s Hit-Monkey in the December ’21 issue of Animation Magazine, available soon!

    Marvel's Hit-Monkey
    Marvel’s Hit-Monkey
  • Tom Kenny Headlines KEPYR Virtual Event to Help Child Refugees

    Tom Kenny Headlines KEPYR Virtual Event to Help Child Refugees

    Kids Entertainment Professionals for Young Refugees (KEPYR), the grassroots, all-volunteer organization comprised of kids and family entertainment professionals, has set November 12 for “Kids Media Stays Up Late!” — a star-studded evening of comedy and music hosted by multiple award-winning actor and music artist Tom Kenny (voice of SpongeBob SquarePants).

    Produced by Guy Toubes (T.O.T.S., The Stinky & Dirty Show, Hello Jack! The Kindness Show), the virtual fund-raising event will feature sketches by Kenny and fellow voice acting luminaries Carlos Alazraqui, Gary Anthony Williams, Matt Danner and others, and music from Kenny and his band The Hi-Seas, Grammy winner Lisa Loeb, and voice and recording artist Grey DeLisle. All proceeds from the event will go to support UNICEF‘s vital relief efforts at the U.S / Mexico border.

    Tickets are $35 and are available now at www.kepyr.org.

    The evening will also cap a month-long online auction of one-of-a-kind and rare collectibles and gift items generously donated by Mattel, Nickelodeon, Netflix, Hasbro, Spin Master, Sesame Workshop, 9 Story Media, Sinking Ship Entertainment, Boulder Media, Animation Magazine and many other companies and individuals. Items include signed original artwork created specially for the event by, among others, Simpsons creator Matt Groening and the makers of the new My Little Pony: The New Generation; a personal video greeting from Steve Burns (Blue’s Clues); 2 VIP American Girl experiences, VIP badges to the 2022 World Animation and VFX Summit, and more than 70 other items, experiences and services. Bidding is open now.

    The evening’s festivities will conclude with a special presentation honoring Aly Jetha, co-founder of Big Bad Boo Studios (16 Hudson, The Bravest Knight, 1001 Nights), who will receive the inaugural KEPYR Heroes Award in recognition of his many years of work developing and implementing innovative educational programs for displaced children around the world.

    “This incredible night of entertainment is being made possible by a generous and big- hearted professional community for whom the wellbeing of all children is paramount,” says KEPYR founder Grant Moran. “It’s an opportunity to come together, have a ton of fun, and score some one of a kind holiday gift items while supporting UNICEF’s urgent relief work at the border. It’s a win-win-win.”

    Tom Kenny & The Hi-Seas
    Tom Kenny & The Hi-Seas

    Tom Kenny & The Hi-Seas are a Los Angeles-based rock ‘n’ roll/soul/R&B band most notably known for “bringing the party” wherever and whenever they perform. They are the embodiment of no-holds-barred, all-in rock ‘n’ roll. The Hi-Seas Band front man is Tom Kenny, who is the highly regarded voice actor behind the immortal SpongeBob SquarePants, The Ice King from Adventure Time, many voices on Rick and Morty, and literally hundreds of other animated characters. He won an Emmy in 2018 for outstanding contributions to an animated program. The Hi-Seas’ Dave “Mustang” Lang is a composer, producer and songwriter based out of Pasadena, CA. He is a multi-instrumentalist who is equally at home in a funky honky-tonk or on a concert stage. Mustang is the Music Director and arranger for Tom Kenny & the Hi-Seas and co-founder of the band Charlie Limousine.

    Winner of the 2021 President’s Volunteer Service Award for “dedicated service to children around the world,” KEPYR was founded by industry professionals in 2017 to spread awareness in the global children’s media community about the current child refugee crisis, the worst since WWII, and to rally support for UNICEF’s heroic work serving displaced children everywhere. KEPYR’s Board of Directors comprises Grant Moran, Yang Chang, Chara Campanella, Aurora Simcovich, Johnny Hartmann, Scott Gray and Monica Dollive. Serving on KEPYR’s Advisory Board are Christopher Keenan, Jean Thoren, Greg Payne, Jo Kavanaugh-Payne, Maca Rotter, Danielle Gillis, Ryan Gagerman, Martin Baynton, Gushi Sethi, Sabrina Propper, Dave Palmer and Sebastian Rich.

    UNICEF works in more than 190 countries and territories and has helped save more children’s lives than any other humanitarian organization, by providing health care and immunizations, safe water and sanitation, nutrition, education, emergency relief and more.

  • DC FanDome Animation Round-Up

    DC FanDome Animation Round-Up

    The free, virtual DC FanDome on Saturday offered plenty of exciting updates for animation fans of all ages, including a flurry of activity during the morning’s family-targeted focus, as well as creative insight into the upcoming Batman: Caped Crusader and details on the Catwoman: Hunted movie for big kids.

    The youngest DC fans kicked off the day with their own special experience in DC Kids FanDome. With Robin and the Teen Titans as their guide, alongside special co-host Nandi Bushell, kids and their parents explored the DC Multiverse and caught sneak peeks and exclusive reveals for upcoming DC animated shows, movies, video games and more. Select portions of DC Kids FanDome are now available to stream on demand on HBO Max, the DC Kids YouTube channel and Roblox.

    • Aquaman: King of Atlantis – Making a splash at DC Kids FanDome was an exclusive sneak peek clip from the second episode (“Chapter Two: Primordeus”) of the new animated mini-series event airing Thursday, October 21 on HBO Max. “Talking to the Fish” from the Aquaman: King of Atlantis Soundtrack is available to stream or purchase here.

    • Batwheels – Series stars Jacob Bertrand (Cobra Kai) and AJ Hudson (The Good Place) provided a sneak peek at the upcoming preschool animated action-adventure comedy series featuring the most heroic and iconic vehicles from the DC universe. Batwheels will be coming to Cartoonito on HBO Max and Cartoon Network in 2022, but fans can get started on the action now by customizing their own unique vehicle at the “Batwheels By You” Digital Experience.

    • DC Super Hero Girls – The Joker makes his highly anticipated debut this season and DC Kids FanDome gave a sneak peek at the Clown Prince of Crime’s episode before it premieres on Cartoon Network on Sunday, 10/24 at 8 a.m. ET/PT. Music from Season 2 of the animated series is available to stream or purchase here.

    • Robin and co. had lots of news to share, including the launch of Teen Titans Go! Season 1-6 on HBO Max, first looks at the Teen Titans Go! X DC Super Hero Girls movie (Cartoon Network, 2022) and the half-hour special featuring the Doom Patrol coming later this year to CN. The livestream capped off with a never-before-seen episode of TTG! in honor of Wonder Woman’s 80th Anniversary.

    Discussing the upcoming HBO Max / Cartoon Network series Batman: Caped Crusader, exec producer Bruce Timm revealed that this project will be “more Batman: The Animated Series than Batman: The Animated Series,” as it returns to the original, more adult concept for B:TAS. Timm’s vision is being backed up by EPs J.J. Abrams and Matt Reeves and co-EP James Tucker. The series is being produced by Warner Bros. Animation, Bad Robot Prod. and 6th & Idaho.

    Tucker, an established DC animation storyteller, noted that Caped Crusader will explore the evolution of Batman’s character from multiple angles — from trialing designs for the iconic Batmobile to figure out who will be his allies in the fight against crime in Gotham: “Nothing is assumed in this series as far as what we’re used to seeing in the world of Batman,” he notes. This iteration will also offer more representative diversity in the character line up, according to Timm. Tucker added that Timm’s pitch referred back to the Strange Days short produced for Batman’s 75th anniversary and that heavily noir-tinged world is a major inspiration for the new show — but don’t worry, Caped Crusader will not be in black and white (unless we get a very retro special).

    Everyone’s favorite felonious feline takes action, adventure and theft to new heights – and in an entrancing anime style – in Catwoman: Hunted, an all-new DC Animated Movie. Produced by Warner Bros. Animation, DC and Warner Bros. Home Entertainment, the feature-length animated film is set for release on 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray Combo Pack (SRP $29.99 U.S. / $34.99 Canada), Blu-ray ($24.99 / $29.99) and Digital on February 8.

    In the movie, Catwoman’s attempt to steal a priceless jewel puts her squarely in the crosshairs of both a powerful consortium of villains and the ever-resourceful Interpol, not to mention Batwoman. It might just be enough to contain her. Or not. Special features include new featurette When the Hunter Becomes the Hunted (DC experts break down the history of each villain on Selina Kyle’s tail) and documentary Catwoman: The Feline Femme Fatale.

    Elizabeth Gillies (Dynasty, Sex & Drugs & Rock & Roll, Vacation) and Stephanie Beatriz (Brooklyn Nine-Nine, In The Heights) lead the cast as the voices of Catwoman and Batwoman, respectively. Also featured is Jonathan Banks as Black Mask, Steve Blum as Solomon Grundy, Lauren Cohan as Julia Pennyworth, Keith David as Tobias Whale, Zehra Fazal as Talia al Ghul and Nosferata, Jonathan Frakes as King Faraday and Boss Moxie, Kirby Howell-Baptiste as Barbara Minerva/Cheetah, Kelly Hu as Cheshire, Andrew Kishino as Mr. Yakuza and Domino 6, Eric Lopez as Domino 1, Jacqueline Obradors as La Dama and Ron Yuan as Doctor Tzin. Directed by Shinsuke Terasawa (Gintama, Yo-kai Watch) from a script penned by Greg Weisman (Young Justice, Gargoyles). Producer is Ethan Spaulding (Mortal Kombat Legends: Battle of the Realms) and exec producer is Sam Register.

    The 2022 releases also include two new entries to the popular DC Universe movies and DC Animated Movies canons – Green Lantern: Beware My Power and Battle of the Super Sons – as well as a film for younger fans, Teen Titans Go! & DC Super Hero Girls: Mayhem in the Multiverse. The year will also see the presentation of DC Showcase – Constantine: House of Mystery, the latest compilation of animated shorts anchored by a story involving the Hellblazer himself; and the highly anticipated 4K Ultra HD release of Batman: The Long Halloween – Deluxe Edition, which ramps up the R-rated action across both halves of the acclaimed film, now melded together as one dynamic thriller.

    Catwoman: Hunted
    Catwoman: Hunted

    Fans were finally given their first look at the highly-anticipated Young Justice: Phantoms, the fourth season of the hit animated series. In true Young Justice fashion, the trailer was action-packed and full of surprises — with the biggest surprise coming in the end when it was announced that the first two episodes of Phantoms are now streaming on HBO Max. Following this surprise drop, new episodes will be available every Thursday (beginning October 21), streaming exclusively on HBO Max. Based on characters from DC, Young Justice: Phantoms is produced by Warner Bros. Animation. Greg Weisman, Brandon Vietti and Sam Register serve as executive producers.

    Teasers & Trailers from the Live-Action Multiverse:

  • Fall Festival & Event Updates

    Fall Festival & Event Updates

    Bug Therapy, the new comedy feature from 88 Pictures and Citronella Stories, powered by Epic MegaGrants, will make its world premiere at the Austin Film Festival in Texas this month. The flick debuts Sunday, October 24 at 4:30 p.m. with an encore  Oct. 25 at 8 p.m., both to be followed by cast & crew Q&A. Directed by Jason Reisig (Smallfoot) and written by Emmy-nominated Tonight Show writer Michael Jann and Michele Jourdan, this lighthearted look at mental health features the voices of Dr. Phil, Meghan Trainor, Jay Leno, Sterling K. Brown, Tom Green, Emily Goglia and Reisig. Read more about the CGI feature film here.

    image courtesy LAIKA
    image courtesy LAIKA

    Animation Is Film (AIF) announced the jury members and special events happening at the 4th annual edition (October 22-24), alongside the extremely popular Annecy International and Women In Animation curated program. Additionally, LAIKA, will host a showcase of all five of award-winning animation studio feature films presented in a curated display in the TCL lobby, characters include: Coraline, ParaNorman, The Boxtrolls, Kubo and the Two Strings and Missing Link. The Festival takes place in-person and returns to its home at the TCL Chinese 6 Theatres in Hollywood.

    • This year’s jury comprises Myke Chilian (Animator; Creator, Tig ‘n Seek), Deborah Cook (Stop-Motion Costume Designer), Peter Debruge (Chief Film Critic, Variety / Jury Chair), Sandra Equihua (Creative Consultant, Maya and the Three), Dan Krall (Artist, Producer, Dexter’s Laboratory), Kristin Lowe (CCO of Features for DreamWorks Animation), Erick Oh (Oscar Nominee for Opera), Ray Pride (Film Critic), Raye Rodriguez (Creator & Executive Producer, High Guardian Spice), Charles Solomon (Critic and Historian) and Ramin Zahed (Editor-in-Chief for Animation Magazine).
    • This year’s free Virtual Program spotlights Baobab Studios’ Namoo: A Conversation with Eric Darnell and Erick Oh, Animation in Video Games, Mamoru Hosoda: In Conversation with Leonard Maltin and Tale as Old as Time: Beauty and the Beast Turns 30.
    • Best of Annecy: Spotlight on Women Filmmakers will include No Leaders Please (Joan Gratz, U.S.), Affairs of the Art (Joann Quinn, U.K./Canada), It Rains (Carolina Corral Paredes & Magali Rocha Donnadieu, Mexico), How to Be at Home (Andrea Dorfman, Canada), What Resonates in Silence (Marine Blin, France) and The Awakening of the Insects (Stephanie Lansaque, France).
    My Sunny Maad
    My Sunny Maad

    The Czech Centre announced the 25th Made in Prague Festival (Nov. 7-Dec. 10; London, U.K.) will present a screening of animated feature My Sunny Maad, to be attended by Oscar-nominated filmmaker Michaela Pavlátová. Based on the novel Freshta by Petra Procházková, the film focuses on a Czech student who falls in love with an Afghan man, and moves to Kabul to live with his extended and welcoming family. My Sunny Maad will play as part of the “Contemporary Czech Cinema” program at The Gate, Notting Hill. (Want to learn more about the movie? Don’t miss the December issue of Animation Magazine, available soon.)

    Meneath: The Hidden Island of Ethics
    Meneath: The Hidden Island of Ethics

    imagineNATIVE Film + Media Arts Festival, the world’s largest presenter of Indigenous screen content, delivers in-person and virtual events from Toronto October 19-14. Among the selection of over 145 works from artists representing 51 Indigenous nations and 26 Indigenous languages are a good number of high profile animated shorts screening in various programs: Ajjigiingiluktaaqtugut (We Are All Different) by Lindsay McIntyre, Angakusajaujuq – The Shaman’s Apprentice by Zacharias Kunuk, Maple Sugar Moon by Jay Havens and Spy Dénommé-Welch, Meneath: The Hidden Island of Ethics by Terril Calder, Nuevo Rico by Kristian Mercado, Premonition: on the eve of signing Treaty 6 by Barry Bilinksy, The Train Station by Lyana Patrick, Tussle by Christopher Grant and Will Flowers? by Kay Chan.

    The World Within
    The World Within

    Théâtre Raymond Kabbaz (TRK), the performance space at Le Lycée Français de Los Angeles, will present Animation Fest on International Animation Day, Thursday, October 28 at 8 p.m. (in person) and 8:30 p.m. (online), showcasing the unlimited expressive potential of French animation in a collection of eight ambitious, award-winning shorts for mature palates:

    • The World Within – Sandrine Stoïanov, Jean-Charles Finck
    • Under the Skin, the Bark – Franck Dion
    • D’ats real good? – Marc Faye
    • My Friend Who Shines in the Night – Jawed Boudaoud, Simon Cadilhac, Grégoire de Bernouis, Hélène Ledevin
    • Precious – Paul Mas
    • Absence – Marc Héricher
    • Sweet Madness, Hard Madness – Marine Laclotte
    • Asmahan the Diva – Chloé Mazlo
    Pinocchio and Friends
    Pinocchio and Friends

    The Italian TV Festival (ITTV), returns to Los Angeles October 30-November 2, kicking off with a family friendly, free opening night premiere event at Little Italy in San Pedro. The public screening event features a theme named, “The Young TV”, in conjunction with this year’s Festival focus on writing for TV series, animation and LBE. The opening night, in collaboration with the Consulate General of Italy in Los Angeles, ENIT, Italian National Tourist Board and Little Italy of Los Angeles Association. is dedicated to animated short films and television series for children and families:

    • Pinocchio and Friends (U.S. Premiere feature) – created by Rainbow Group and Rai Ragazzi
    • Puffins – a three episode series featuring the voice of Johnny Depp
    • Arctic Friends – a two episode series by ILBE Group Productions
    • Mila – a CG animated short film about a little girl who survived bombings during WWII in Trento, Italy during 1943, by Cinzia Angelini
    • 44 Cats – created by Iginio Straffi
    • Winx Club – created by Iginio Straffi
    Psycho Psalms
    Psycho Psalms

    Open the Portal is hosting the world premiere of its first original pilot, Psycho Psalms, on Saturday, October 23 at Cinelounge Outdoor Theater in Los Angeles. The event is hosted by Mauricio Alvarado and Jerry Beck, and will include a Q&A/meet and greet with the all-star animators who worked on the project — including veterans of The Nightmare Before Christmas, Gumby and Coraline — plus adult beverages, food truck grub, gourmet popcorn, merch from RockinPins.com and original artwork by the pilot artists. The premiere is being held in conjunction with the retro spooky toons screening Betty Boop’s Halloween Party.

    Beauty Water
    Beauty Water

    Five compelling titles from around the world have been nominated for the Best Animated Feature Film category of the 14th Asia Pacific Screen Awards. The award ceremony on November 11 will launch the 3rd Asia Pacific Screen Forum; both presented by the Asia Pacific Screen Academy with the support of Griffith Film School. The nominees are:

    • Beauty Water (S. Korea) – dir. Kyung-hun Cho, prod. Byung-jin Jeon
    • Fortune Favors Lady Nikuko (Japan) – dir. Ayumu Watanabe, prod. Sanma Akashiya, Eiko Tanaka, Shu Kamigaso, Mitsugu Yamada
    • The Knight and the Princess (Saudi Arabia/Egypt) – dir. Bashir el Deek, Ibrahim Mousa; prod. Alabbas bin Alabbas
    • The Nose or The Conspiracy of Mavericks (Russia) – dir./prod. Andrey Khrzhanovsky
    • Where Is Anne Frank (Belgium) – dir. Ari Folman, prod. Jani Thiltges, Yves Kugelmann, Ari Folman, Alexander Rodnyansky

    In 2022, FMX – Film & Media Exchange will return to its home base in Stuttgart, Germany after having been hosted online in 2021. From May 3-5, FMX will open its doors with a first-class program on site at Haus der Wirtschaft in Stuttgart. On May 6, FMX will shift to virtual mode, offering an exclusive online program that will be available worldwide. The conference will be inspired by the central theme Changing the Game, with director and producer Hasraf ‘HaZ’ Dulull (The Beyond, 2036 Origin Unknown, Fast Layne) joining FMX as its first ever Program Chair.

    Glimpse
    Glimpse
  • Trailer: ‘RvB’ Spinoff ‘Family Shatters’ Debuts Oct. 20 on Rooster Teeth

    Trailer: ‘RvB’ Spinoff ‘Family Shatters’ Debuts Oct. 20 on Rooster Teeth

    The pioneering webtoon Red vs. Blue is expanding its “Red vs. Blu-niverse” with 10 quick, non-canonical peeks into the zany everyday happenings in the special ops HQ: Family Shatters. The bonus miniseries premieres for Rooster Teeth FIRST Members on October 20, available the next day on Rooster Teeth and YouTube. New shorts will bow on subsequent Wednesdays.

    The three- to five-minute Family Shatters shorts were created by an experimental team working in Unreal Engine, combining techniques including machinima gameplay capture, pre-made animation assets, facial motion capture (using Live Link) and hand-keyed, in-engine control rigs.

    Inspired by the FPS franchise Halo, Red vs. Blue is a sci-fi comedy web series created by Rooster Teeth co-founder Burnie Burns in 2003. Rooster Teeth is currently in production on the show’s 19th season.

  • Global TV & Streaming Bytes

    Global TV & Streaming Bytes

    DreamWorks Animation announced that a fourth season of the hit series Jurassic World: Camp Cretaceous will return to Netflix on December 3. The news was shared to social media feeds on Friday with a motion poster teasing a journey to a new island for our young heroes…

    Inspired by the blockbuster Jurassic World franchise, the animated series follows six teenagers chosen for a once-in-a-lifetime experience at Camp Cretaceous, a new adventure camp on the opposite side of Isla Nublar, who must work together to survive when dinosaurs wreak havoc across the island. From DreamWorks Animation, Universal Pictures and Amblin Entertainment, the series is executive produced by Steven Spielberg, Colin Trevorrow and Frank Marshall, alongside executive producers and showrunners Scott Kreamer and Aaron Hammersley.

    Chikoo aur Bunty
    Chikoo aur Bunty

    Nickelodeon India continues to lead the nation’s homegrown animation revolution, announcing its 11th original kids’ IP Chikoo aur Bunty, premiering October 18 and set to air Monday-Friday at 10 a.m. Powered by Phillips, in association with Pediasure and Flipkart shopsy, the series is a tongue-in-cheek comedy that reflects the familiar jabs of sibling rivalry. Set in a middle-class home where Chikoo and Bunty live with their parents and a playful and intelligent dog, Barfi, the 11-minute episodic series spotlights the fun, sometimes sweet and sometimes sour banter and rivalry between the two brothers competing for affection and goodies, while avoiding being reprimanded by their parents for their mischief. Chikoo aur Bunty is complemented by a robust multi-screen and multi-touchpoint marketing plan, and boasts a toe-tapping music video written by Gulzaar Saab.

    “Nickelodeon has always stayed ahead of the curve by introducing kids to characters that are loved and adored. We have consistently catered to our young viewers’ evolving preferences with innovative entertainment and immersive storytelling and enhanced engagement experiences. Continuing to lead the dynamic kids’ space is a testimony of our thought-through business and content strategies. With the launch of Chikoo aur Bunty, we will add further width and depth to our portfolio of ‘Made in India IPs’ and provide impetus to our mission of entertaining kids and creating an evolved kids ecosystem.” — Nina Elavia Jaipuria, Head of Hindi Mass Entertainment & Kids TV Networks, Viacom18.

    Nina Elavia Jaipuria | Anu Sikka
    Nina Elavia Jaipuria | Anu Sikka

    “At Nickelodeon, our journey with local content kicked off almost a decade ago. We have always introduced our young viewers to storylines and characters that are relatable, engaging and clutter breaking. The success of our past IPs reinforces our commitment and drive to serve our young audience with content that continues to raise the bar. The launch of our new IP, Chikoo aur Bunty, will showcase a realistic representation of the relationship between two siblings who compete for the smallest of things but love each other equally. We look forward to enthralling kids with this unique concept of sibling rivalry and unlimited dose of comedy.” — Anu Sikka, Head – Creative, Content & Research, Kids TV Networks, Viacom18.

    Chikoo aur Bunty joins “Made in India” Nicktoons such as Ting Tong, Golmaal Jr., Motu Patlu, Shiva and Rudra. The last IP launched, Happy & Pinaki – The Bhoot Bandhus was also a runaway hit, consistently appearing in the top 10 highest rated slots of the category every week since its launch. The network boasts h 700+ hours of local content.

    Usamah Zaid Yasin | Ejen Ali
    Usamah Zaid Yasin | Ejen Ali

    Media Prima’s content arm Primeworks Studios and WAU Animation is teaming up with Disney+ Hotstar for Ejen Ali Season 3. The announcement marks a major milestone for the Malaysian industry, as the country’s first animation property co-produced by the streaming platform. “We are honored to have Disney+ Hotstar signing-on as a co-producer of Ejen Ali Season 3 as it represents a significant endorsement for the Ejen Ali brand,” said director Usamah Zaid Yasin, CEO of WAU Animation. “It has been a lifelong dream for all of us at WAU Animation to create a truly Malaysian hero with all our uniquely local story sensibilities and cultural influences. Just as the many Disney animated films have inspired us, we hope Ejen Ali’s visibility alongside the iconic Disney characters on Disney+ Hotstar will then inspire the next generation of Malaysian creators to tell their stories in the animation medium. We cannot wait to see the reactions from fans when Ali’s next mission is revealed in 2022.”

    Following the events of Ejen Ali The Movie, S3 sees Ejen Ali and the young Ejens from MATA Academy as they are reunited for a secret Ejen competition, the MATA Arena. Joined by several diverse recruits from MATA’s international division, Ali strives to pursue his late mother’s path of becoming MATA’s best but struggles to cope without IRIS. Meanwhile, Rizwan grows wary as he discovers a new threat looming over Cyberaya. The award-winning animation series is expected to hit screens in 2022 in four territories: Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore and Thailand.

    Meowgic
    Meowgic

    Russia’s oldest animation studio SMF Studio (Soyuzmultfilm) is staying in demand, celebrating its 85th anniversary year with a raft of deals from MIPCOM for a number of its series and classic short films.

    • Long-term partner Joy Media (China) has picked up new 2D upper preschool comedy Meowgic (52 x 7′), about a girl and her wish-granting cat.
    • Sales agent Jetpack has sold preschool edutainment shortform Claymotions (62 x 2.5′) to HOP! (Israel), with YLE signing on as distributor in Finland.
    • The Secrets of Honey Hills 3D CGI series for Kids 4-6 (52 x 7′), produced with Unreal Engine, has also been picked up by HOP! as well as Česká televise (Czech Rep.) through a deal with Sola Media, representing SMF titles globally.
    • SMF’s Golden Collection of 300 classic cartoons continues to pick up new audiences around the world, landing in Baltic countries through Latvian broadcaster Tet.
    The Smurfs (classic)
    The Smurfs (classic)

    Sales and acquisitions updates:

    • Guru Studio has appointed Reesee Entertainment as its licensing and media agency for preschool series Pikwik Pack in China. Currently the series has been picked up by Tencent, Youku, Xiaomi, Haixin, Kukai, TCL and national IPTVs covering over 60 platforms in over 30 provinces in China. The series is expected to premiere in November 2021 with strong licensing programs and toy distribution to follow.
    • SPI International acquired the digital distribution rights of the classic TV series The Smurfs and the feature-length film The Smurfs and the Magic Flute from worldwide licensors LAFIG Belgium and IMPS for its digital assets, such as FilmBox on demand, FilmBox+, Film1 and Filmstream. The series will be available on-demand with English, Turkish, Dutch and Polish dub options.
    • WarnerMedia Latin America has acquired rights to Be-be-bears, Leo & Tig and Cutie Cubies — created by Paravoz Studio and commissioned by Digital Television Russia — to stream on HBO Max across Latin America, the Caribbean and Central America in Spanish, Portuguese and English.
    • Moonbug Entertainment also secured further expansion across Latin America on HBO Max through an extended partnership with WarnerMedia Latin America. The deal covers Spanish and Brazilian Portuguese episodes of Blippi, My Magic Pet Morphle, Mia’s Magic Playground and Little Baby Bum.
    Digital Television Russia X HBO Max
    Digital Television Russia X HBO Max
  • World Animation & VFX Summit Announces 2021 Honorees, Panelists

    World Animation & VFX Summit Announces 2021 Honorees, Panelists

    The 2021 edition of the World Animation & VFX Summit, taking place live and in-person November 7-10 on the grounds of the historic Garland Hotel in North Hollywood, Calif., has announced this year’s recipient of its Hall of Fame awards and panelist lineup. This year’s honorees, who will be presented with their awards at the opening night gala on Sunday, Nov. 7, are:

    • Gaumont Animation: International Studio of the Year. Award presented to U.S. President Nicolas Atlan and Exec VP of Creative Content Terry Kalagian.
    • Phil Lord & Chris Miller. The innovative producers of Sony Pictures Animation’s critically acclaimed features Cloudy with a Chance of Meatballs, Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and this year’s The Mitchells vs. the Machines. Award presented by Sony Pictures Animation’s president Kristine Belson.
    • Tom McGrath. The acclaimed director of DreamWorks Animation’s two Boss Baby features, three Madagascar features and Megamind will receive the Hall of Fame: Billion Dollar Director Award.
    • Chris Meledandri. Founder/CEO of Illumination Entertainment and creator of Despicable Me, the world’s most successful animated franchise in cinematic history, which includes Minions, the fourth-highest-grossing animated film. Other career highlights include being the founding president of 20th Century Fox Animation and producing the Ice Age movies,  Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax and The Grinch, The Secret Life of Pets movies, Sing, and this year’s Sing 2.  He will receive the 2021 Vanguard Award.
    • Chris Nee. Creator of Disney’s Peabody Award-winning series Doc McStuffins, Vampirina and Netflix’s We the People, Ridley Jones and Ada Twist, Scientist. Award presented by animation veteran Jorge R. Gutierrez, creator of Maya and the Three and The Book of Life.
    • Jennifer Yuh Nelson. Oscar-nominated director of Kung Fu Panda 2 and supervising director of Netflix’s acclaimed anthology series Love, Death + Robots Volume 2. Award presented by Victoria L. Howard, producer of Love, Death + Robots, Robot Chicken and BoJack Horseman.
    • Bruce Smith. Trailblazing creator of The Proud Family and the upcoming Disney+ series The Proud Family: Louder and Prouder and director of Bébé’s Kids. Award presented by Ralph Furquhart, producer, The Proud Family and Da Jammies.
    • Cree Summer. Beloved animation voice actress, best known for her work on Rugrats, Kid Cosmic, Muppet Babies, DC Super Hero Girls, Vampirina, Voltron Legendary Defender, Dawn of the Croods and many others.
    World Animation & VFX Summit Honorees
    World Animation & VFX Summit Honorees

    The awards ceremony will be hosted by animation voice actress and Annie Awards regular Dina Sherman (Bleach, Naruto, Mama Named Me Sheriff, Marvel Future Avengers).

    The gala event will be followed by three packed Summit days: All-inclusive networking breakfasts, lunches and cocktail parties anchor the all-day panels of industry luminaries. The focus is on easy access, informative and face-to-face interactions. Speakers will share inspiring insights and information about their experiences, the current state and future of the animation and VFX industry, new ideas and innovations, the current job market and the technologies that help push the medium forward and help studio talent, artists, executives and VFX artisans.

    “We are thrilled to be coming back as a live event in November to celebrate the vitality of our business and community and to highlight the achievements of iconic game-changers in the animation industry,” says World Animation & VFX Summit founder and president & publisher of Animation Magazine Jean Thoren. “We are very pleased to have some of the biggest innovators, creative talent and thought leaders in our field sharing their vision for the future with us at our event. We can’t wait to see all our friends in the global animation community and learn about their many innovations and fascinating projects.”

    The eclectic lineup of Summit Panels this year explore many different facets of the animation and VFX industries, from behind-the-scenes tips on how to produce a successful international co-pro, to the nuts and bolts of creating content for VR, to informative talks with the directors and producers of this year’s feature and short films that are contenders for Academy Awards.

    The 2021 Summit will showcase panels on the making of some of the year’s top animated features such as The Boss Baby: Family Business, Encanto, Flee, Luca, The Mitchells vs. the Machines, Raya and the Last Dragon, Ron’s Gone Wrong, Spirit Untamed, The Summit of the Gods, Vivo and Wish Dragon. It will also spotlight some of the most acclaimed animated shorts of the year, which will be competing for year-end awards. Among the titles slated to be screened and discussed are Blush, Demi’s Panic, Twenty Something, Far from the Tree, Namoo, Nona, Robin Robin, Steakhouse and Us Again.

    Additional talks taking place Monday through Wednesday will focus on some of the innovations in new media, co-production opportunities, the future of streaming and the changes in the TV animation landscape and the promise of the VR universe. Also on tap will be discussions on promoting more diversity and inclusivity in the industry, how to bring animated projects to the attention of streaming gatekeepers, how to successfully launch an international co-production and how to polish your portfolio and resume to land your dream job in animation.

    Among the distinguished animation and vFX professionals appearing on the panels this year are:

    • Kim Adams, Co-founder, Adventure Lab
    • Chris Applehans, Director, Wish Dragon
    • Liz Bartels, Manager Global Content Planning, LEGO Group
    • Kristine Belson, President, Sony Pictures Animation
    • Kelli Bixler, Owner, Bix Pix
    • Elaine Bogan, Director, Spirit Untamed
    • Špela Čadež, Director, Steakhouse
    • Eric Calderon, Exec VP, Falcon’s Beyond Global
    • Beth Cannon, VP TV, DreamWorks Animation
    • Dan Clark, Writer/Producer/Director, Dan Clark Company
    • Melissa Cobb, VP of Kids and Family, Netflix
    • Margie Cohn, President, DreamWorks Animation
    • Kirk DeMicco, Director, Vivo
    • Megan Nicole Dong, Creator & Exec Producer, Netflix, Centaurworld
    • Camille Eden, VP, Animation Recruitment, Nickelodeon
    • Jinko Gotoh, Producer, Klaus, Escape from Hat
    • Jorge R. Gutierrez, Director/Creator, Netflix, Maya and the Three
    • Jonathan Hagard, VR Director, Replacements
    • Chris Hamilton, President/Creative Director, Oddbot Studio
    • Emily Hart, Senior VP of Development, Disney TV Animation
    • John Harvatine IV, Co-Owner, Stoopid Buddy Stoodios
    • Chris Henderson, Founder, AstroNomical
    • Jasmine Johnson, Head of Studio, Stoopid Buddy Stoodios
    • Shyam Kannapurakkaran, VR Production Tech Artist, Stargate Studios
    • Christopher Keenan, Senior VP, Mattel Inc.
    • Cort Lane, Exec Producer, My Little Pony: A New Generation
    • Hillary Levi, Literary Manager, The Gotham Group
    • Gregory Little, Senior VP, Content, Mainframe Studio
    • Steve Loter, Exec Producer, Disney, The Ghost and Molly McGee
    • Tom McGrath, Director, The Boss Baby: Family Business
    • Paul Mezier, Exec Producer, Novelab
    • David Michel, Founder/President, Cottonwood Media
    • Connor Murphy, Virtual Production Manager, The Third Floor
    • Ramsey Naito, President, Nickelodeon/Paramount Animation
    • Vladimir Nikolaev, Co-Founder and CEO Wizart
    • Motoki Nishii, Environmental Art Director, The Third Floor
    • Erick Oh, Director, Namoo
    • Silvia Olivas, Writer/Exec Producer, Maya and the Three
    • Bill Plympton, Director, Demi’s Panic
    • Jonas Poher Rasmussen, Director, Flee
    • Mike Rianda, Writer/Director, The Mitchells vs. the Machines
    • Teddy Riley, Exec Producer/Co-Creator, Fairfax
    • Octavio Rodriguez, Co-director, Ron’s Gone Wrong
    • Khoby Rowe, Exec Director Animation, Fox Entertainment
    • Sander Schwartz, Exec Producer, Skylander Academy, Alien Xmas
    • Dane Smith, VP, The Third Floor
    • Aliki Theofilopoulos, Exec Producer, Doug Unplugs
    • Kevin Walker, Exec Creative Director, BUCK
    • Josh Wassung, Founder, The Third Floor
    • Michelle Wong, Producer, Vivo
    • Mark Zavadskiy, CEO, Riki Group

    Health and Safety Policy: To ensure the safety of staff and guests, the World Animation & VFX Summit will require proof of approved vaccine administered at least two weeks prior to the Summit and a negative COVID test within 72 hours of attending the Summit. The event will also require a valid ID. Temperature checks will be conducted on all attendees upon arrival and masks are required to be worn at all times in accordance with L.A. County requirements. To learn more about the event and secure special discounted tickets, visit www.animationmagazine.net/summit.

  • Yeti Farm’s Longer Format ‘Sweet Tweets’ Premieres on Knowledge Nov. 1

    Yeti Farm’s Longer Format ‘Sweet Tweets’ Premieres on Knowledge Nov. 1

    Yeti Farm Creative (Hotel Transylvania S2, Summer Memories), an artist-driven studio and one of Canada’s most robust animation pipelines, is bringing a longer-form version of its Sweet Tweets digital series to Knowledge: Kids on British Columbia’s Knowledge Network, the publicly-funded education cable network, premiering November 1.

    The studio has named Zodiak Kids, part of Banijay (Super Agent Jon Le Bon, Horrid Henry), worldwide distributor for the new 26 x 3.5 story-driven series produced with the financial participation of the Shaw Rocket Fund. Zodiak Kids introduced Sweet Tweets to international broadcasters at MIPCOM in Cannes this week.

    “We’re so excited to bring the Sweet Tweets series to viewers across Canada and around the world,” said Ashley Ramsay, Founder & CEO of Yeti Farm Creative and co-executive producer of the show. “Sweet Tweets has amassed a large and loyal following on YouTube and other digital platforms over the years and we look forward to working with Knowledge: Kids and Zodiak Kids to debut the new longer-form series for existing and new fans everywhere.”

    “Zodiak Kids is delighted to have taken on the distribution of this gorgeous yet simple program,” said Delphine Dumont SVP of Sales, Acquisitions & Co-Production, Zodiak Kids. “We are looking forward to presenting the longer version to broadcasters globally and for preschoolers to fall under its charm.”

    Sweet Tweets will present character-driven stories about life’s small adventures, featuring a cast of friendly “Tweets” who laugh, play and, especially, sing together. The series centers on Lindy, who lives with her parents and little brother, Pipik, and their friends who reside on Cherry Blossom Lane. The relatable stories focus on social-emotional lessons for preschoolers, from dealing with disappointments – like being inside on a rainy day and cleaning up big messes – to simple joys of everyday life such as playing games with friends and learning something new.

    The upcoming show expands on the original Sweet Tweets series of song-centered, one-minute digital shorts. Every episode of the longer-form series will include a minute-long, standalone original song by composer Daniel Ingram (My Little Pony: The Movie, Littlest Pet Shop), to be available on iTunes. The beautifully-animated series was created entirely in British Columbia with 2D Harmony. It is set to air on Knowledge Network each weekday at 12:42 p.m. PT and stream across Canada on the free Knowledge: Kids app and online at www.knowledgekids.ca.

    Sweet Tweets launched on YouTube in 2016 and has since rolled out on multiple OTT platforms, including Amazon, Curious World, Future Today and Tubi TV, as well as digital books via FarFaria. The series’ 32 digital shorts of fun nursery songs have garnered more than 1 million views.

    The new series is created by Jon Izen (Pet Squad, Chuck’s Choice) and produced by Yeti Farm Creative. Executive producers are Frank Saperstein and Ashley Ramsay. The show is produced by Megan Ryan, directed by Ryan Olson and written by Amy Brown.

    yetifarmcreative.com | zodiakkids.com

  • Trailer: Plague of Love-Bugs Descends on ‘Big Mouth’ S5

    Trailer: Plague of Love-Bugs Descends on ‘Big Mouth’ S5

    Ian Curtis tried to warn us: Love will tear us apart! And if the “us” in question is a certain class of pubescent animated misfits in the thrall of literal emotional monsters, then you know you’re in for it. Starting with “No Nut November” and continuing through New Years Eve, Big Mouth Season 5 takes on the theme of “Love & Hate” with the introduction of lovebugs and hate worms, amorphous creatures that can shift between the two forms (like caterpillars and butterflies). Ten new 30-min. episodes drop November 5!

    In the latest installment of the edgy adult animated comedy, Nick’s lovebug, Walter, pushes Nick to pursue his feelings for Jessi until she publicly rejects him, turning Walter into a hate worm who leads Nick down a dark, rancorous path. Meanwhile, Jessi’s lovebug, Sonya, appears as Jessi gets closer with Ali and eventually wonders if she loves her as more than a friend. Jessi and Ali’s new close bond, and joint co-opting of Missy’s affinity group, sends Missy into her own hate spiral, fueled by hate worm Rochelle. Jealousy, unrequited love, and newfound crushes abound in this new form-breaking season as the Big Mouth teens navigate 8th grade.

    Season 5 guest stars include Adam Scott as “Mr. Keating,” Jemaine Clement as “Simon Sex,” Kristen Schaal as “Bernie,” Kumail Nanjiani as “Kumail Nanjiani” and Chloe Fineman as “Leah.” Previously announced guest stars Brandon Kyle Goodman (“Walter”), Keke Palmer (“Rochelle”) and Pamela Adlon (“Sonya”) will also appear in the upcoming Big Mouth spin-off, Human Resources, and their characters will be introduced in this new season.

    Created by Nick Kroll and Andrew Goldberg, Big Mouth series stars include John Mulaney as “Andrew,” Kroll as “Nick” (and many others), Maya Rudolph, Jason Mantzoukas, Jordan Peele, Fred Armisen, Ayo Edebiri and Jessi Klein. Kroll, Goldberg and screenwriter-directors Mark Levin & Jennifer Flackett are all creators and executive producers on the series.

    Big Mouth Season 5
    Big Mouth Season 5
  • Animation Educators Forum Selects 2021-22 Student Scholarships

    Animation Educators Forum Selects 2021-22 Student Scholarships

    ASIFA-Hollywood’s Animation Educators Forum (AEF) announced its scholarship recipients for the academic year 2021-22. This year’s scholarships totaled $39,730 and will be distributed to nine students, both graduates and undergraduates, from five states and four countries. The scholarship funds will be used to cover costs for necessary software and hardware, creative and academic research, and tuition.

    The AEF scholarships are merit-based and designed to support college students in continuing their education in the field of animation. Each individual student’s written proposals, letters of recommendation from faculty, and demo reel/still art were taken into consideration as part of the selection process.

    The 2021-22 AEF Scholarship recipients are:

    • Damian Thorn-Hauswirth, University of Central Florida, Orlando, FL | Graduate Student – Creative Animation Project – Returning to graduate studies after working eight years in the industry.
    • Jenielle Salardo, San Jose State University, San Jose, CA | Senior, Undergraduate – Creative Animation Project – Active member of the “Shrunkenheadmen” Animation & Illustration Club.
    • Jodi Kuchenbecker, Pacific Northwest College of Art, Portland, OR | Senior, Undergraduate – Creative Animation Project – A pilot episode of her series proposal.
    • Joy Zhou, Sheridan College, Oakville, Ontario, Canada | Third year, Undergraduate – Tuition – Goals include story and character design.
    • Kaitlin Yu, School of Visual Arts, New York, NY | Senior, Undergraduate – Creative Animation Project – Project focuses on the experiences of immigrants.
    • Keri Galindo, University of Technology, Sydney, Australia | Fourth year, Graduate Degree – Animation Research Proposal – Applying animation principles to the field of social robotics.
    • Stefie Gan, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA | MFA Student – Creative Animation Project – Studies architecture at Columbia University.
    • Swann Valenza, MoPA, International School of 3D Animation, Arles, France | Fourth Year, Undergraduate – Creative Animation Proposal – Taught herself to use Blender 3D software while in high school.
    • Thomas Edgar-McNerney, University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA | Fourth year, Undergraduate – Creative Animation Project – Inspired by special effect animation of dragons to pursue a career in animation. Hopes to be a storyboard artist.

    AEF is proud to support these nine animation students on their journey towards membership in the global animation community. Now more than ever, animation in its many forms provides a way to communicate across cultures and across borders.

    As previously announced, the AEF has selected nine diverse faculty animation projects to support with its 2021 Faculty Grants, totalling $24,880. This international cohort of grant recipients and projects comprises:

    • Alexander Sergeant, University of Portsmouth, U.K., to support his open access digital resource website and podcast project, Fantasy-Animation.org, which examines the relationship between fantasy storytelling and animation.
    • Ana Mouyis, University of Louisiana at Lafayette, LA, for research travel to Cyprus to conduct interviews and continue research on the similarities between the divided communities of Cyprus for her experimental animated documentary.
    • Anitha Balachandran, Srishti Manipal Institute of Art, Design and Technology, Bangalore, India, towards her five-minute experimental animated biographical film featuring legendary Indian singer Ustad Abdul Karim Khan.
    • Javad Khajavi, Maynooth University, Ireland, to help finance the acquisition of additional properties and rights furthering the development and expansion of the online Animated Calligraphy and Animated Typography Database (ACTD).
    • João Paulo Schlittler, University of São Paulo, Brazil, to assist in the continued progress of his animated 2D short film Tabacaria (The Tobacco Shop), an interpretation of Alvaro de Campos poem, employing china ink illustrations created in 1985.
    • Mette Peters, University of the Arts Utrecht, Netherlands, to support research and presentations of her project bringing George Debels (1890-1973), Dutch animation pioneer, out of obscurity via public screenings and teaching events.
    • Paul Taberham, Arts University Bournemouth, England, to help finance his solo-authored book Animated Visions: Theory, History and Aesthetics;
    • Raquel Coelho, San Jose State University, CA, to assist in completion of pre-production work on her stop-motion short film After the Great Collapse, which follows discussions by two women scientists post-pandemic.
    • Timothy Jones, Robert Morris University, PA, to assist in his project “Reframing Materials Best Practices for Inclusive and Accessible Learning in an Interdisciplinary Animation Lab,” developing materials for animation faculty to create inclusive workshops and curriculum for comprehensive learning experiences.

    ASIFA-Hollywood, the largest chapter of the Association Internationale du Film d’Animation (International Animated Film Association), supports a range of animation activities and preservation efforts through its membership. Current initiatives include the Animation Archive, Animation Aid Foundation, Animation Educators Forum, animated film preservation, special events, scholarships, and screenings. www.asifa-hollywood.org