European animated series pitch fest and networking hub Cartoon Forum is expanding its efforts to restructure and streamline the continent’s toon market, creating a new network of transborder cooperation. Organizers announced that colleagues across the Channel will be returning to the event this year through a special “Animated UK Meets Europe” initiative.
Considering the U.K.’s globally renowned animation productions and talent pool as well as established co-production track record with the rest of the continent, Cartoon Forum asserts the importance of including that Isle’s toon scene in the European industry.
Therefor, five new projects in development from U.K. creatives will be pitched, together with a U.K. broadcast partner, in a 90-minute session at at Cartoon Forum 2023. Each project will be actively seeking a European co-production partner. This special session will be in addition to the official European project pitching sessions program.
The project is spearheaded by Animation UK in partnership with the BBC, Disney, Warner Bros. Discovery and SKY and supported by agencies across the U.K., including Northern Ireland Screen, Screen Scotland, Creative Wales and Film London.
“We are delighted that the U.K. animation industry is being provided the opportunity to profile our highly regarded sector known for its creative excellence, innovation, storytelling, iconic characters and humor,” said Kate O’Connor, Executive Chair of Animation UK. “We look forward to showcasing new projects supported by our partners and we are actively looking for European co-production partners for all of our animated projects which will range from preschool to family and adult.”
Registration for Cartoon Forum is now open. Early registration is encouraged due to Rugby World Cup games being scheduled for Toulouse on the same dates as the event (September 18-21).
