Legacy Classics and Shout! Factory announce that Golden Globe-winning actor Martin Sheen (The West Wing) and Oscar winner J.K. Simmons (Whiplash, La La Land) will be leading the voice cast for the upcoming animated feature The Boxcar Children: Surprise Island, now in production.
Sheen will voice James Alden, while Simmons plays Dr. Moore. Joining them on the confirmed cast list will be Joey King (Independence Day: Resurgence) as Jesse Alden, Carter Sand (Frozen) as Benny Alden, Gil Birmingham (Twilight) as Lonan Browning, Griffin Gluck (Middle School: The Worst Years of My Life) as Henry Alden, Stephen Stanton (Star Wars Rebels) as Capt. Daniel, and Talitha Bateman (The 5th Wave) as Violet Alden. Additional casting will be announced later.
Dan Chuba and Mark Dippé are directing from a screenplay written by Chuba. The Boxcar Children: Surprise Island is an adaptation of the children’s book of the same name by author Gertrude Chandler Warner, and is produced by Legacy Classics at its animation and VFX studios, with co-producers Shout! Factory, Albert Whitman & Company and Blueberry Pictures.
The movie is part of a long-term, multifaceted family film co-production and distribution partnership of Shout! and Legacy. Surprise Island is the first of three Boxcar Children adaptations planned in conjunction with the 75th anniversary of the beloved books. The producers are working closely with publisher Albert Whitman & Company, and expect to launch the film in fall 2017.
Comprising 150 books, Gertrude Chandler Warner’s The Boxcar Children is one of the all-time best-selling children’s book series, with over 70 million books sold worldwide and over 1 million young student readers across North America each year.
Richter as Globby; Diedrich Bader (American Housewife) as Bluff Dunder; Susan Sullivan (Castle) as Fred’s mother; Sean Giambrone (The Goldbergs) as Richardson Mole; John Ross Bowie (Speechless) as Mel; and Haley Tju (Bella and the Bulldogs) as classmate Karmi.
Carla and Vilhelm Hansen’s beloved bear cub Rasmus Klump is getting a brand new CG-animated preschool show thanks to a partnership between producing partners Studio Soi (The Gruffalo) and Hyde Park Europe, publisher Egmont and German pubcaster ZDF.
Titled Klump, the 26 x 12 series will follow Rasmus Klump and his friends on their travels around the world as their adventures teach them about different countries, cultures, and the importance of friendship and teamwork. Back in May it was reported that ZDF and Egmont had commissioned two seasons of the series; the first season will wrap in December.
The property will also get a fresh global licensing push. Egmont is master publishing partner for Klump, and has already been joined by licensees Barbo Toys (toys & games, Scandinavia), Carlsen Verlag (publishing, Germany) and Bjørna (bedding, Scandinavia). Products are intended to hit retail ahead of the show’s TV debut.
Rasmus Klump was created by the Hansens as a comic strip in 1951, chronicling the sea-faring adventures of the bear and his animal friends. The comic was translated and published worldwide, followed by books selling over 30 million copies. The property was animated for European television several times throughout the latter 20th century, and Rasmus has even appeared in an iPad app from Egmont’s digital division.
India-based Toonz Studios — the flagship division of Toonz Media Group — has signed on to a strategic partnership with NY transmedia and entertainment company Herotainment LLC to expand its popular collectible brand Smighties into a digital series.
Based on the lovable and unique collectible characters seen in Herotainment’s award-winning casual games, Smighties the series follows the cute little creatures on amazing adventures to uphold values and virtues in their whimsical worlds. The stories will celebrate friendship, fun and individuality.
Smighties (39 x 7) is aimed at kids ages 4-7 and will launch in Summer 2017 on Toonz’s global YouTube channel, Chotoonz, which receives over 100 million monthly views. There are further plans to bring Smighties to linear TV as well as worldwide licensing & merchandising.
“The characters and world of Smighties are so wonderful that we see immense potential in the property,” said P. Jayakumar, CEO of Toonz Media Group. “We are absolutely excited to partner with Herotainment, who created this amazing concept and who shares our values in terms of passion and creativity. We are sure that Smighties will engage and entertain kids around the globe”
The stars of DHX Media and FremantleMedia Kids & Family Entertainment’s vibrant animated preschool series Kate & Mim-Mim are getting ready for their most magical adventure yet. Featuring the voice of actress and model Cat Deeley (So You Think You Can Dance), a brand-new primetime special “Kate in Oz” that puts a new twist on the classic Baum tales will premiere on Disney Junior on Monday, November 14 at 8 p.m.
In “Kate in Oz,” a scary thunderstorm is keeping Kate awake, so she tries to twirl away to Mimiloo. But she and her intrepid stuffed bunny sidekick Mim-Mim unexpectedly end up in Oz instead! The best friends soon learn that their twirl magic was stolen by Violet the Witch (voiced by Deeley), who is determined to keep all the purple in Oz for herself. To get their magic back and return home, Kate and Mim-Mim must find the Wizard of Oz and ask for his help.
Created by Scott and Julie Stewart (and inspired by their very own Kate), Kate & Mim-Mim is a colorful CG series centered on a 5-year old girl and her special friend: a purple toy bunny named Mim-Mim. With the power of Kate’s big imagination, the two friends are transported to the fun-filled world of Mimiloo, where the little toy bunny transforms into a larger-than-life playmate ready for another exciting adventure.
Cat Deeley voices Violet the Witch in Kate & Mim-Mim “Kate in Oz”“Kate in Oz” puts a new spin on a classic Nov. 14 on Disney Junior.
Ringling College of Art and Design held its 22nd Annual Trustee Scholar Awards over the weekend, honoring 13 students, stand-outs in each academic major plus Student Life. This year’s theme highlighted the work of Ringling College students, graduates, faculty, staff and supporters and their ongoing efforts to establish the Sarasota, Florida school and environs as a “Capitol of Creativity.”
“Trustee Scholar is the highest collegiate honor awarded by the Ringling College Board of Trustees,” said Ringling College President Dr. Larry R. Thompson. “Trustee Scholars exemplify the originality, talent and work ethic required for success within their respective areas of study, as well as exceptional leadership and citizenship to the Ringling community.
“Since the inception of the Trustee Scholar awards over two decades ago, we have seen our award recipients and their classmates go on to achieve unparalleled success and make valued contributions personally and professionally to their fields. We take great pride in recognizing our Trustee Scholars in their senior year as they prepare for their futures as drivers of our new creative economy and leaders of the ‘Capitol of Creativity.’”
2016 Ringling College of Art and Design Trustee Scholars:
Ellen Arnold – Computer Animation (see some of Ellen’s work here!)
Paige Bauer – Business of Art and Design
Stacey D’Andelet – Graphic Design
Khoa Duong – Photography and Imagery
Philip Gleichauf – Motion Design
Griffin Goodman – Fine Arts
Kyle Leicht – Student Life
Nicholas Marten – Game Art
Tess Messina – Interior Design
Celia Nogales – Fine Arts
Jun Cheng Robson Tan – Advertising Design
Robin Thompson – Illustration
Jacob Wojenski – Film
Trustee Scholars were nominated by the head of each academic department as well as the Office of Student Life for their exceptional talent and distinction of mind; contribution to the department, College and community; continued demonstration of leadership, citizenship and mentorship. Each Trustee Scholar will receive a $5,000 award, funded by the Board.
Front Row, Left to Right: Ellen Arnold, Kyle Leicht, Celia Nogales, Khoa Duy Duong, Stacey D’Andelet, Paige Bauer and Jun Cheng Robson Tan. Back Row, Left to Right: Philip Gleichauf, Griffin Goodman, Nick Marten, Tess Messina, Robin Thompson and Jake Wojenski. Photo by Matthew Holler
Studio 100 Film is presenting a brand-new CG animated movie at AFM: Quixote’s – The Heirs of La Mancha. Inspired by the literary classic The Ingenious Gentleman Don Quixote of La Mancha, the 3D-animated adventure follows the ol’ windmill-tilter’s 11-year-old heir, Alfonso.
“We are delighted to present this new feature film at AFM. The story promises an exciting adventure for kids and families alike,” says Patrick Elmendorff, CEO of Studio 100 Media. “The tale of Don Quixote has captured audiences for more than 400 years and to this day its fascination is still unbroken. This new interpretation of the topic into a thrilling children’s adventure will continue the success story of a masterpiece.”
In Quixote’s – The Heirs of La Mancha, Alfonso and his three (imaginary) musical rabbits join with Pancho and Victoria to save their beloved town of La Mancha from a huge storm caused by evil triplets bend on taking over the land and making it their kingdom. Along the way, young Alfonso will discover the power of friendship, fall in love, and get his father back.
The movie is slated for delivery in 2018, and is a production of GG VFX. Studio 100 Film acts as worldwide sales agency. Quixote’s is written by Carlos Kotkin, whose credits include Rio 2, with Gonzalo Gutierrez directing.
“Our film aims to give a different, fresh and youthful tone to the already world-famous literary masterpiece written by Cervantes, with an aesthetics that seeks to differentiate itself from the one in standard animated films today,” says Gutierrez. “The film uses humor to convey Don Quixote’s values and captivate the whole family through shared laughter.”
Toronto-based toon shop Guru Studio has announced its latest project Big Blue is now in development with Canadian pubcaster Kids’ CBC. The original series comes from the creative mind of Guru Studio designer Gyimah Gariba, whose distinct illustrative style has won praise from everyone from Rihanna to Forbes Magazine (“15 Young African Creatives Rebranding Africa”).
Aimed at kids 4-8, Big Blue follows sibling underwater adventurers Lettie and Lemo and their quirky submarine crew as they explore and protect a vast, ocean-covered planet from ship-stealing crabs, know-it-all jellyfish, and a health inspector shark! Along the way, they unravel deep secrets and the true origins of their newest recruit, the mysterious Bacon Berry.
The series promised plenty of offbeat humor and high-stakes adventure, set in a fantastical universe.
“Imagine the Millennium Falcon helmed by a colorful cast of marine misfits! Big Blue will drop young viewers into a bold new world of comic adventure and spark their curiosity about the earth’s oceans,” says Mary Bredin, EVP of Content and Strategy at Guru.
“From the moment we saw Gyimah’s designs we knew we wanted to be part of Big Blue,” says Marie McCann, Interim Senior Director of Children’s Content. “We at Kids’ CBC are excited to be working with Gyimah and Guru Studio to develop this stunning creator-driven concept.”
Big Blue is the latest promising project from Guru, which boasts a roster of award-winning animated series including Justin Time, PAW Patrol (with Spinmaster) and Dinopaws. Guru is also behind Mattel’s Netflix Original Series Ever After High, and will debut its own Netflix Original in 2017: True and the Rainbow Kingdom.
9 Story Media Group has reached an agreement with Little Critter, LLC to produce a new animated series based on the beloved Little Critter children’s books by Mercer Mayer. 9 Story will also handle worldwide distribution and merchandising rights for the new animated show, with the exception of publishing and digital media content, which remains with Little Critter, LLC.
“Little Critter is an extraordinary brand,” said Vince Commisso, President & CEO for 9 Story Media Group. “There are very few book-based series as well loved, and with such a long history of success. Mercer Mayer has developed an incredible world, built around endearing characters and relatable stories.”
The deal was negotiated by Stuart Snyder (former President & CEO of Turner’s animation and kids’ media division). Little Critter had tapped Snyder Media Group LLC to build the brand globally, and evaluate strategic partners and opportunities. Little Critter, LLC is spearheaded by longtime producer, creative director and writer John R. Sansevere, with partners Sword, Rowe & Company and real estate developer Richard Dreher.
“I am thrilled to welcome 9 Story to the Little Critter team,” said Snyder. “When John and I first discussed potential partners, I knew from first-hand experience that 9 Story would be a tremendous partner. With their capabilities across CG and 2D animation, commitment to quality storytelling and long-standing track record in international distribution, 9 Story has the passion and know-how to make a Little Critter series a hit show around the world.”
The planned 80 x 11 series will feature a diverse cast of animal characters living in Critterville, with a focus on neighborhood adventures and the challenges of growing up, and a narrative promoting social-emotional learning. Author-illustrator Mayer’s Little Critter franchise has sold over 200 million books globally in the past 40 years, with translations in eight languages. Recently, the books have found success in Asia, with over 100 titles released in China in 2016.
Warner Bros. Home Entertainment has at last released the all-new campy cartoon adventure of the Dynamic Duo, Batman: Return of the Caped Crusaders (available now on Blu-ray Combo Pack, DVD, and Digital HD)! You already got to hear from co-stars Burt Ward (Robin) and Julie Newmar (Catwoman), and now WBHE has provided some awesome interview clips featuring the Dark Knight himself: Adam West.
West, Wart and Newmar original donned their masks in the iconic 1960s Batman TV series, which inspired the new animated movie. Check out what West, who is no stranger to animation voice-over work, has to say about giving fans an “unexpected Batman,” the BRCC script, plot points, and what he loves about meeting fans.
November is going to be a month-long fiesta of fan favorite, with new episodes of its hit animated series debuting throughout. Week one features episode premieres for Clarence (Tuesday, Nov. 1 at 5:30 p.m. ET/PT) and Mighty Magiswords (Thurs., Nov. 3 at 6:30 p.m.), which will get two full weeks of new Magisword-hunting adventures from Monday, Nov. 7.
And that’s not all, folks! A super-special half-hour episode of Steven Universe “Gem Harvest” is debuting Nov. 17 at 7:30 p.m. There’s back-to-back Adventure Time on Nov. 19 at 8:30 p.m. And of course more fresh episodes from Regular Show, Teen Titans Go!, The Amazing World of Gumball, Uncle Grandpa, We Bare Bears and The Powerpuff Girls.
CN has shared first-look clips from Clarence “Capture the Flag” and Mighty Magiswords “The Wrath of Neddy” — check them out below, as well as a full November premiere programming list.
November CN Premieres by Show
Clarence
Clarence
Tuesday, Nov. 1: “Worm Bin” – After his mom gets a worm bin, Jeff deals with the gross reality that he has a tub of bugs living in his kitchen, and Clarence obsesses over feeding the worms.
Wednesday, Nov. 2: “Clarence & Sumo’s Rexcellent Adventure” – On a school trip to the Aberdale Natural History Museum, Clarence and Sumo check out the displays, goof around with the exhibits and even remove a tooth from the T-Rex display.
Thursday, Nov. 3: “Birthday” – Jeff and Sumo expect no one to show at Clarence’s birthday party, just like last year. When dozens of kids arrive, the boys struggle to get face time with Clarence, the popular party host.
Friday, Nov. 4: “Tree of Life” – Clarence, Jeff and Sumo make it their mission to climb a really tall tree before it’s set to be chopped down. As they scale higher and higher their reality begins to slip away.
Monday, Nov. 14: “Capture the Flag” – Water balloon fights, warring factions and the risk of jail time, everything is on the line when Clarence and friends play the biggest game of capture the flag yet! Everyone wants to take home the crown, and the power to control the neighborhood’s juice boxes.
Tuesday, Nov. 15: “Cloris” – When Clarence befriends an aging woman at the local retirement home, he’s determined to remind her of her old self in order to convert the grumpy granny to his fun loving ways.
Wednesday, Nov. 16:“Fishing Trip” – Mel learns that Chad has never taken Clarence fishing, a tradition he sees as a rite of passage, and decides to remedy this with a bonding trip for all the boys! Split into two groups, Mel and Clarence learn a bit about each other while Chad struggles with the ins and outs of fishing.
Thursday, Nov. 17:“Belson’s Backpack” – After an accidental backpack swap, Clarence discovers that Belson is hiding an artistic side and attempts to foster Belson’s creativity.
Friday, Nov. 18:“Motel” – Following an insect mishap, Clarence’s house needs to be fumigated forcing Mary, Chad, and Clarence into a motel. In the meantime, Clarence and Chad learn a bit about responsibility while Mary contemplates a life of letting go.
Monday, Nov. 28:“Pizza Hero” – It’s the end of the school year, and as is tradition at Aberdale Elementary, Papa Marianio is slated to dish out his famous pizza along with a song and dance spectacle. As the kids wait in excitement, they share memories about times with Papa.
Tuesday, Nov. 29: “Sumo Goes West” – Clarence learns his best friend Sumo may transfer to another school! It’s up to Clarence to protest, petition and rally to convince everyone to let Sumo stay – or face losing his closest school pal!
Wednesday, Nov. 30: “Clarence for President” – It’s school election time at Aberdale Elementary, and Jeff is once again determined to become Class President. However, like previous years, he’s unsuccessful in connecting with other kids – that is until he sees a shoe-in puppet President – the lovable Clarence!
Mighty Magiswords
Mighty Magiswords
Thursday, Nov. 3: “The Wrath of Neddy” – After Neddy the Mallet easily sails through all the obstacles in the Cave of Stuff he decides to stay as King Neddy, displacing the Cave Weirdos who beg the Warriors to help them reclaim their cave.
Monday, Nov. 7: “Working for Scales” – Princess Zange is sick and requires a dinosaur scale for a tea remedy, but King Rexxtopher is fiercely against the Warriors stepping foot inside his Dinosaur Kingdom to get it.
Tuesday, Nov. 8: “Felonious Prose” – The Warrior mission of finding a lost contact lens gets seriously compromised from Vambre’s obsession with the latest Veronica Victorious novel.
Wednesday, Nov. 9: “Potion in the Ocean” – Witchy Simone joins the Warriors on a mission deep in the Fickle Sea to find an eye of newt for her magic potion, but Man Fish the Fish Man won’t let them harm his sea newt pal!
Thursday, Nov. 10: “Bad Bad Cop” – Vambre and Prohyas pretend to be cops in their attempts to shakedown a dangerous bunch of pirates to find a broccoli smuggler.
Friday, Nov. 11: “Gotta Get Grup to Get Down” – Grup hires the Warriors to help him become the biggest music star in Rhyboflaven, yet helping the little dragon achieve his big dream is no small task.
Monday, Nov. 14: “Thick as Thieves” – Phil the Pilferer robs Vambre and Prohyas of their very best Magiswords so he can snag the Sheepy Mantis, but the Warriors find out that no Magisword is lame as they manage to keep Phil from becoming Thief of the Year.
Tuesday, Nov. 15: “Biggest Fan” – An obsessed super fan goes to dangerous extremes just to be saved by her Warrior heroes: Vambre and Prohyas.
Wednesday, Nov. 16: “Dungeons and Dayjobs” – A botched mission leaves the Warriors in debt, so they take day jobs at Slugburger and sling Slugburgers for Witchy Simone!
Thursday, Nov. 17: “Little Sword of Horrors” – Prohyas grows a new Magisword from a tiny seed, but doesn’t know that his Carnivorous Plant Magisword is a menace to Lyvsherian society until it’s too late!
Friday, Nov. 18: “Champion of Breakfasts” – An epic battle between Vambre and her Waffle Magisword and Prohyas’ Pancake Magisword escalates to a war that can only end when Grup solicits his Cave Weirdo pals to be peacemakers.
Regular Show
Regular Show
Thursday, Nov. 3: “The Ice Tape” – The guys need to play a very special VHS tape.
Thursday, Nov. 10: “The Key to The Universe” – The guys learn something super important.
Thursday, Nov. 17: “No Train No Gain” – The guys help Pops train.
Teen Titans Go!
Teen Titans Go!
Thursday, Nov. 3: “Booby Trap House” – After being left alone at home, Cyborg and Starfire booby trap the tower for safety.
Thursday, Nov. 17: “Fish Water” – Starfire wins a goldfish at the carnival and vows to keep it alive.
Saturday, Nov. 26: “BBSFBDAY” – Beast Boy agrees to share his birthday with Starfire after learning she’s never had one on Earth.
The Amazing World of Gumball
The Amazing World of Gumball
Thursday, Nov. 3: “The Test” – Gumball is livid when an online test keeps telling him that his character-type is “The Loser”. He’s convinced the only way to shake off this label is to do the opposite of everything he normally would. But Gumball suppressing his natural instincts leaves a vacuum, a Gumball-shaped hole that someone has to fill. That someone is Tobias, who starts turning the whole show into a cliched sitcom.
Thursday, Nov. 10: “The Slide” – A chance encounter with the woman of his dreams inspires Rocky to stop living life online and find love with the help of the latest dating app. Gumball and Darwin try to help Rocky through the tricky world of online romance. In the race to find Rocky’s dream girl, they discover people can forgive almost anything when you tell them you’re acting in the name of love.
Thursday, Nov. 17: “The Loophole” – Gumball and Darwin give Bobert specific instructions to ensure he acts in a safe and responsible manner. When Bobert starts applying his robot logic to their rules, they soon realize they’re going to have to be much clearer. Or he will end up destroying them all.
Uncle Grandpa
Uncle Grandpa
Thursday, Nov. 3: “Uncle Grandpa Runs for President” – Uncle Grandpa and Pizza Steve run against one another in the RV presidential race.
We Bare Bears
We Bare Bears
Thursday, Nov. 3: “Creature Mysteries” – Ranger Tabes tells the Bears she’s been investigating a mysterious creature. But when the Bears realize she’s actually investigating their friend Charlie, they split up to ensure Charlie’s safety.
Thursday, Nov. 10: “The Library” – The Bears find Chloe in the library exhausted from studying for an exam all day. The Bears stay to help Chloe study but make things worse in the process.
Thursday, Nov. 17: “Grizz Helps” – When his brothers don’t need his help for the day, Grizz leaves the cave to assist anyone he can throughout the city.
Steven Universe
Steven Universe
Thursday, Nov. 17: “Gem Harvest” Half-Hour Special – Steven’s autumn visit to the barn brings a new stranger into his life.
Adventure Time
Adventure Time
Saturday, Nov. 19 Back-to-Back Episodes “Preboot” – During an excavation of human artifacts, Finn, Jake and Susan are greeted by a mysterious new stranger who may hold the key to the past.
Saturday, Nov. 19: “Reboot” – Finn and Jake must take on one of the fiercest enemies they’ve ever faced when a powerful ally goes rogue.
The Powerpuff Girls
The Powerpuff Girls
Monday, Nov. 28: “Electric Buttercup” – Buttercup gets more than she bargained for when she makes a deal with a cool ’80s metalhead to get a sweet new guitar.
Tuesday, Nov. 29: “Professor Proofed” – After the Professor’s latest experiment goes awry, the girls become overprotective.
Wednesday, Nov. 30: “Poorbucks” – When Morbucks loses her money, Blossom tries to reform her.
Oscar-nominated visual effects studio Image Engine is expanding its talent base with the hiring of three additional senior staff at its Vancouver headquarters: Visual Effects Supervisor Thomas Schelesny, Visual Effects Producer Tara Conley, and Digital Environment Supervisor Damien Thaller.
All three hires bring a wealth of high-end VFX work and leadership experience to Image Engine, reinforcing the studio’s existing skillset and technical proficiency while bolstering its growing global reputation. Image Engine continues to build on its success, along with its sister studio Cinesite.
Thomas Schelesny is an Emmy-winning visual effects supervisor with more than two decades’ experience. Schelesny spent 14 years studying under visual effects luminary Phil Tippett at Tippett Studio, ultimately taking on the role of visual effects supervisor. Schelesny has also delivered work on projects such as Super 8 and Game of Thrones, and worked on Pan during his time at Scanline VFX. He brings a multidisciplinary skillset to Image Engine, from script writing to storyboarding, animation, editing, production planning and design.
Tara Conley is an accomplished producer with experience on a number of of high-profile features, including Game of Thrones, The Twilight Saga and Pacific Rim. Conley started her career at Rainmaker Entertainment in 2003. She has since worked at studios such as Zoic Studios and Rodeo FX, producing a diverse slate of projects. Conley has a deep understanding of production from the ground up, drawing on past experience to deliver simple and effective solutions.
Damien Thaller is an experienced digital environment supervisor with 20 years’ experience. Thaller has worked at a number of well-established studios, including Fuel VFX, Animal Logic and Industrial Light & Magic. During this time Thaller contributed to high-profile features such as X-Men, Captain America and Star Wars, and worked on the matte paintings of Earth as seen in Alfonso Cuarón’s Academy Award-winning Gravity. Thaller brings a deep understanding of 2D/3D environments to Image Engine, from initial pitch through to final execution.
The 18th edition of Animated Dreams, taking place Nov. 16-20 in Estonia’s fairytale capital Tallinn, has finished narrowing down its 500-plus submissions to 66 films which will run in three competitions programs. The Grand Competition comprises 28 films from 21 different countries, with 24 films in the student competition and 20 dialog- and narration-free shorts in the newest program, SHUT UP!
Multiple award-winning filmmaker Olga Pärn serves as artistic director of Animated Dreams, and describes this year’s competing films as “strong films with brilliant direction and very personal artistic statements.”
The Grand Competition will be judged by an international jury including renowned animation historian and writer Giannalberto Bendazzy of Italy, Goya Award winner Pedro Rivero (Birdboy) of Spain, and treasured Estonian animation director and cinematographer Janno Põldma (Lotte and the Moonstone Secret).
Grand Competition Before Love (2015) Dir: Igor Kovalyov Phantom City (2015) Dir: Patrick Jenkins Curse of the Flesh (2016) Dir: Yannick Lecoeur, Leslie Lavielle The Kid and the Hedgehog (2016) Dir: Marc Riba & Anna Solanas Monkey (2015) Dir: Jie Shen Nighthawk (2016) Dir: Spela Cadez Sore Eyes for Infinity (2016) Dir: Elli Vuorinen Lead in the Head (2016) Dir: Aurore Peuffier Analysis Paralysis (2016) Dir: Anete Melece L’Alfabeto delle Cose Piccole (2015) Dir: Linda Wolfsgruber, Federica Pagnucco, Thomas Renoldner Empty Space (2016) Dir: Ülo Pikkov Chateau au Go Go (2016) Dir: Steve Gentile Satie’s Parade (2015) Dir: Koji Yamamura Cat Meets Dog (2015) Dir: Paul Driessen Tango (2016) Dir: Francisco Gusso, Pedro Giongo Ink Meets Blank (2016) Dir: Tymoni Albrzykowski Waiting for the New Year (2016) Dir: Vladimir Leschiov Fatcula (2016) Dir: Martinus Daane Klemet Au Revoir Balthazar (2016) Dir: Rafael Sommerhalder Windows (2016) Dir: Angella Lipskaya Full House (2016) Dir: Kristjan Holm Dota (2016) Dir: Petra Zlonoga Parade (2015) Dir: Digna van der Put G-Aaah (2016) Dir: Elizabeth Hobbs High Summer (2016) Dir: Josselin Facon Winter Love (2015) Dir: Isabel Herguera Travelling Country (2016) Dir: Vessela Dantcheva, Ivan Bogdanov Endgame (2016) Dir: Phil Mulloy
Student Competition Tough (2016) Dir: Jennifer Zheng When The (2016) Dir: Raffaele Gans Pfister Child (2016) Dir: Viktor Stickel, Iring Freytag Limoeiro (2016) Dir: Joana Silva What They Believe (2016) Dir: Shoko Hara Tour (2016) Dir: Jasmijn Cedee As a Little Bird (2016) Dir: Yyhely Hälvin Schroedinger’s Dog (2016) Dir: Natalia Krawczuk Illusions (2016) Dir: Dominica Harrison Fears (2015) Dir: Nata Metlukh The Grey Hound (2016) Dir: Josh Saunders The Wrong End of the Stick (2016) Dir: Terri Matthews Come to Me (2016) Dir: Marta Reis Andrade Penelope (2016) Dir: Heta Jäälinoja Starting Over (2016) Dir: Mika Seike Mirror (2016) Dir: Anna Lytton Traces of the Ephemeral (2016) Dir: Agnieszka Waszczeniuk Hootchu (2015) Dir: June Kim Novembre (2015) Dir: Marjolaine Perreten Zhi-Hao (2016) Dir: Wu Chung-Yi Beside Oneself (2015) Dir: Karolina Specht Shuma (2016) Dir: Lucija Mrzljak Hypertrain (2016) Dir: Etienne Kompis, Fela Bellotto How Are You Today? (2016) Dir: Sophia Markatatos
SHUT UP! Competition Endgame (2016) Dir: Phil Mulloy This Ain’t Disneyland (2015) Dir: Faiyaz Jafri Batfish Soup (2016) Dir: Amanda Bonaiuto Monkey (2015) Dir: Jie Shen Au Revoir Balthazar (2016) Dir: Rafael Sommerhalder Starting Over (2016) Dir: Mika Seike The Kid and the Hedgehog (2016) Dir: Marc Riba & Anna Solanas Garden Party (2016) Dir: Théophile Dufresne, Florian Babikian, Gabriel Grapperon, Lucas Navarro, Vincent Bayoux, Victor Claire Made in Spain (2016) Dir: Coke Riobóo Parade (2015) Dir: Digna van der Put Fish Scale (2016) Dir: Alicja Kot You Are Not the Strongest (2016) Dir: Emilio Yebra Travelling Country (2016) Dir: Vessela Dantcheva, Ivan Bogdanov G-Aaah (2016) Dir: Elizabeth Hobbs Here There (2015) Dir: Alexander Stewart Pile (2016) Dir: Raffaele Gans-Pfister Last Judgment (2016) Dir: Junyi Xiao There’s Too Many of These Crows (2016) Dir: Morgan Miller Full House (2016) Dir: Kristjan Holm Chopping Wood (2016) Dir: Emmi Heimonen
Disney, Marvel Studios, Dolby, Synchrony Bank, Broadcom MASTERS and Society for Science and the Public have announced the Grand Prize winner and finalists in the nationwide Marvel Studios’ Doctor Strange: The Magic of STEM Challenge, in conjunction with the Nov. 4 theatrical release of Doctor Strange — starring Benedict Cumberbatch, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Rachel McAdams, with Mads Mikkelsen and Tilda Swinton.
The Grand Prize was awarded to Ashley Qin of Arcadia, California. The 16-year old has won mentorship from The Walt Disney Studios Digital Team to learn how to producer her own science vlog episode, from story development through production and presentation. The completed episode will be shown through a Disney media platform.
Qin and her four fellow finalists — Navya Annapareddy, Maggie Chen, Imani Porter and Amanda Zong — all attended the World Premiere of Doctor Strange, receiving two round-trip tickets to Southern California (plus meals, transportation to organized activities and hotel accommodations), $1,000 deposited into a high-yield savings account from Synchrony Bank, a tour of Walt Disney Studios in Burbank, and more.
Marvel Studios’ Doctor Strange: The Magic of STEM Challenge invited girls to create a science vlog episode in which they answered their favorite — or most vexing — scientific or technological question. You can view the winning and finalist entries at www.DrStrangeMagicofSTEM.com.
Grand Prize Winner: Ashley Qin, Age 16, from Arcadia, Calif. How do non-invasive glucose monitoring wearable biosensors work?
Ashley used fast-draw animation to creatively teach her viewers about wearable biosensors and how they can function as non-invasive glucose monitors. She explained how this technology will allow diabetic patients, especially young patients, to easily and inconspicuously monitor their glucose levels, thereby maintaining a healthy lifestyle without embarrassment or the need for cumbersome monitoring equipment.
Finalists: Navya Annapareddy, 16, Haymarket, Va. How do upper-limb prosthetics work?
Navya’s vlog presented an engaging and easy to understand history of prosthetic devices beginning with the first known device, a toe found on an Egyptian mummy, and continuing to fully articulated modern-day devices that can be controlled by a person’s brain activity. Navya showed how advances in prosthetic design have taken the idea of regaining the use of a limb from the magical to the practical.
Maggie Chen, Age 16, San Diego, Calif. How can antibiotic treatments be made more effective and safe?
Maggie, through the use of engaging imagery and demonstration, explained how nanotechnology can be used to enhance the effectiveness and safety of antibiotics. Maggie enthusiastically shared her interest and fascination for the exciting possibilities of nanotechnology biomimic applications in healthcare.
Imani Porter, Age 15, Bolingbrook, Ill. Why are some people more susceptible to hair loss than others?
Imani’s vlog answered her question by introducing her audience to the fascinating field of metagenomics through the use of clever animation and personal presentation. Imani used a novel self-awareness approach in her vlog, which not only enabled the viewer to easily understand her topic, but also assured young girls that it is okay to feel conflicted about their abilities in STEM and encouraged them to keep following their interests.
Amanda Zong, Age 17, Bronx, N.Y. How does computer vision software work?
Through a combination of fast-drawing animation, video annotation and demonstration, Amanda explained how facial recognition software, a form of computer vision technology, distinguishes a face from other similarly shaped objects, and can further distinguish specific facial features from one another. Amanda also explained how advances in computer vision software allows self-driving cars to identify road signs and assists physicians in the diagnosis of diseases.
Marvel Studios’ Doctor Strange: The Magic of STEM Challenge
Call for Entries: ITFS ’17
Submit your animated shorts, student films, kids’ fare and features by December 1 for the 24th Stuttgart Festival of Animated Film (May 2-7, 2017)!
Alvinnn!!! Names Mattel as Master Toy
Bagdasarian Prod.’s CG chipmunks will be turned into a full line of toys including role play, music items, articulated figures, play sets, R/C vehicles, plush and more. Look out, Dave!
Viacom’s board has officially decided to make Bob Bakish, CEO of Viacom International Media Networks (VIMN), the Acting CEO as of November 15 when Tom Dooley steps down from his interim role. Bakish has also been named CEO of newly minted unit Viacom Global Entertainment Group.
Viacom Global Entertainment Group blends VIMN with the Music and Entertainment Group, which includes Comedy Central, MTV, VH1, Spike and Logo. TV Land and CMT will also join the Group.
The Kids and Family Group is being redubbed the Nickelodeon Group, which will “exploit the broad array of growth opportunities in all facets of the kids segment, including recreation and hospitality,” according to Viacom.
It is expected that Bakish will serve as Acting CEO until such time as Viacom and CBS re-merge. Options are being weighed per the wishes of Sumner Redstone’s National Amusements, which holds 80% of the voting power at both companies. The Viacom CEO post has been in a fugue since August when Philippe Dauman failed to overturn Redstone’s decision to dump him.
Bakish has been with Viacom since 1997, and has headed VIMN (and its prior incarnation MTV Networks International) since 2007. Earlier in his career, Bakish was a partner with Booz Allen & Hamilton in the firm’s Media and Entertainment practice. Bakish holds an MBA from Columbia Business School.
Turner is lending a strong shoulder toward pushing the African animation industry forward by partnering with South African industry organization Animation SA to present the Kids’ Animation Pitching Competition at DISCOP Africa. The content confab will take place Nov. 2-4 in Johannesburg.
The Kids’ Animation Pitching Competition will give African producers and storytellers a chance to present their original properties to a panel of local and international experts, buyers and commissioning editors. The winner will receive a $2,000 cash prize, with $1,000 for the runner-up.
“It is a great opportunity for Turner Africa to sponsor the Animation SA booth and pitching competition,” said Pierre Branco, Turner’s VP and general manager for Southern Europe and Africa. “This is also a demonstration of how we are strengthening our presence across the continent, and building our local production strategy to create content that is both relevant and engaging for our African audiences.”
Prospective pitchers have the opportunity to schedule a brief feedback session with Turner, and all are invited to a sharing session and Q&A ahead of the competition.
“This partnership with Turner is indicative of the bargaining power of the collective and is validation for the efforts of all the volunteers at Animation South Africa over the years,” said Nick Wilson, chair of the Export Missions Committee of Animation South Africa. “Our mandate is to grow the animation industry in South Africa and there is no better way to do that than in dialogue with one of the biggest players in global animation.”
Barbara Stephen, Managing Director of Sydney-based animation studio Flying Bark Productions, has been named the winner of the “NSW Women in International Business” category at the 2016 Premier’s NSW Export Awards. The awards, hosted by the export Council of Australia, were recently held in Sydney.
“I am incredibly honoured to have been acknowledged as this year’s winner of the NSW Women in International Business Award. This award is a testament to the hard work and passion of the entire Flying Bark Productions team,” said Stephen.
“I hope this award serves to inspire more women to pursue careers in the animation, technology and broader creative industries. It’s a really exciting time for the animation and visual effects industries in Australia and particularly in NSW. Over the past few years our local talent and acclaimed productions have attracted significant international investment leading to strong growth, steady longer-term employment and sustainable businesses. I am proud of the critical role the animation industry is playing in building creative industries and the Australian economy.”
The awards showcased New South Wales’ top exporters across 22 categories, acknowledging businesses and individuals for their contributions to Australia’s strongest state economy. As Australia’s most established full-service animation studio specializing in creative development and pre-production for both animation and live-action family entertainment, Flying Bark’s content has reached 170 territories worldwide.
Thunderbird announces the appointment of Matthew Berkowitz as Head of Development at subsidiary Atomic Cartoons. The former Arc Productions exec has been brought onboard to develop and grow the studio’s ever-expanding IP and co-production slate.
“As we redefine our approach to development at Atomic, it’s important for us to have an executive who is a passionate, dynamic and respected industry leader, and for us that’s Matt. He has a proven development track record, is a big picture thinker and we are thrilled to have him running our development operations on the ground in Los Angeles,” said Atomic President Jennifer Twiner-McCarron.
Berkowitz spend seven years at Arc, where he oversaw the studio’s IP slate and established production relationships with Sony Pictures Animation, DreamWorks Animation, Amazon Studios, LEGO, Zodiak and Sprout. Prior to Arc, Berkowitz held positions at Film Roman and Strike Entertainment.
“I am honored and privileged to join the tremendously talented team at Atomic. The studio has been producing exceptional animation for years, and I am excited to help us expand further into the original content business,” said Berkowitz. “Utilizing the premier talent at our studio, we are eager to tell world-class stories with talented creators from all over the globe.”
This summer, Thunderbird and Atomic launched the Netflix original series Beat Bugs along with co-producers Grace: A Storytelling Company and Beyond Screen Production. Thunderbird also recently announced a first-look deal with Skybound North.
China’s massive Alibaba Group is consolidating its key entertainment outfits into the new Alibaba Digital Media & Entertainment Group. This will comprise businesses including online video platform Youku Tudou, UCWeb, Alibaba Pictures, Alibaba Music, Alibaba Gaming, Alibaba Digital Entertainment and Alibaba Literature.
The entertainment assemblage will be overseen by Yongfu Yu as chairman and CEO of Alibaba Digital Media & Entertainment Group. The former CEO of UCWeb will report directly to Alibaba Group CEO Daniel Zhang.
Alibaba is also launching a 10 billion yuan ($1.5 billion USD) fund to put toward investments through the new entertainment group, with Victor Koo (retiring CEO of Youku Tudou) as chairman of the Strategy and Investment Committee.
Deadline reports that while specific investments have not been identified, the focus will be on catalyzing growth of the overall entertainment industry. Alibaba has made inroads to Hollywood with stakes in Paramount films and a minority equity position in Amblin Partners.
Euro producer/distributor Mondo TV is bringing some of its biggest new titles to DISCOP Africa 2016, the continent’s premiere TV and online content industry gathering (Nov. 2-4 in Johannesburg). CG kids’ series Robot Trains and Mondo TV’s first-ever live-action teen series Heidi, Bienvenida a Casa will lead the company’s portfolio.
Available to view at Screening Stand #S77 will be the first episode of Robot Trains. The new 32 x 11 HD CG children’s series sees regular trains become spectacular robot heroes. The coming-of-age story follows Kay, the fastest train in Train World, who with his friends strive to save their beloved town. Aimed at kids 3-6, the series is produced in collaboration with South Korea’s largest media group, CJ E&M, and currently is a huge success in Korea.
Mondo TV is also bringing a variety of established animated titles and recent productions, including YooHoo & Friends, Cuby Zoo, Nutri Ventures, Adventures in Duckport, Playtime Buddies, Puppy in My Pocket, Beast Keeper, Cat Leopold and Treasure Island. All these series have been dubbed into a number of languages, and are available for all TV rights and digital media rights (including VOD, SVOD, IPTV and mobile TB platforms worldwide).
