If one were to judge the health of the European animation industry by the number of quality projects presented at Cartoon Forum this month, things are certainly looking up. The four-day pitching and financing confab, which takes place at Toulouse, France (September 18-21) will spotlight 77 TV series or specials, out of 120 original submissions. According to organizers, the selected projects represent 475 hours of content with a total budget of €398.5 million ($433.1 million).
Once again, France is the most-represented producing country, with French companies attached to 33 of the projects. Sixteen European countries are represented in this year’s selection, with other top contributors including Ireland and the CEE region (Bulgaria, Czech Republic, Estonia, Poland & Ukraine) with eight pitches each; Belgium, Germany and the Nordics (Denmark, Finland & Norway) with six each; Spain with five and Italy with four. Greece and The Netherlands are both backing one project each. In addition to the 16 European countries, Canada, China, North Macedonia and the United Kingdom appear as co-producers.
Interesting Facts & Figures
- Content for Children dominates the lineup, accounting for 58% of titles, followed by Preschool (22%), Adults (14%) and Family audiences (6%).
- 24 projects (31%) are already co-productions, among them 13 projects (17%) involving two or more countries.
- 18 new companies (23%) have not pitched at any Cartoon event before.
- Four projects previously pitched at Cartoon Springboard made it to Cartoon Forum: 9 Million Colors by Bionaut (Czechia), Apocalypse Mojito by Passion Paris (France), Exit Tales by Storyhouse (Belgium) and Happily Never After produced by Helium Film (Czechia) and co-produced by Reynard Films (Denmark).
- Project produced in the territory (Toulouse/Region Occitanie) are Pil’s Adventures (TAT Productions) and School Monitors (Xbo Films).
U.K. in the Spotlight
A special initiative for this edition is Animated U.K. Meets Europe, lead by U.K. broadcasters to encourage co-productions between European and U.K. producers. A total of five new projects in development from U.K. creative voices with a U.K. broadcast partner will be pitched in a 90-minute session (an addition to the official program). Each project will be actively looking for collaboration with a European co-production partner.
The five projects selected by four U.K. broadcasters (BBC, Disney, Warner Bros. Discovery and Sky) are:
- Duck & Frog (Sun & Moon Studios)
- Huggy the Hugasaurus (Yamination Studios, Threewise Ent.)
- Magic Animal Friends (Coolabi Productions, Paper Owl Films)
- Pleasure Beach (Nexus Studios)
- The Wolfbjorns (BBC Studios Kids & Family Production)
You can find out more at cartoon-media.eu/forum.
The Hot Sheet
15 New Shows to Catch at Cartoon Forum (Sept. 18-21, Toulouse) & MIPJunior (Oct. 13-15, Cannes)
20 Dance Street
Producers: Cottonwood Media, in assoc. with Opéra National de Paris
Distributors: Federation Kids & Family and ZDF Studios
Adapted for TV by: Christel Gonnard
Style: CGI animation
Target demo: Kids 6-11
Format: 26 x half-hours
Delivery: Q1 2025
Status: In Development
Synopsis: This heartwarming animated drama series centers on 11-year-old Maya, who leaves the Caribbean to join the prestigious Paris Opera Ballet School, unaware her destiny is about to change forever in the most unimaginable way.
Stand-Out Qualities: What makes this show unique is its realistic 3D CGI animation which incorporates dance scenes performed in motion capture by professional dancers. The 20 Dance Street universe also uses light in a special way that provides a strong rendering so that the dance studio (for example) almost becomes a theater stage.
Exec Quote: “With over 20 novels published to date since 2016, we are delighted to be adapting Elizabeth Barféty’s best-selling book series for TV,” says David Michel, producer and CEO of Cottonwood Media. “The compelling CGI and emotive storylines in 20 Dance Street create an immersive experience for kids on a par with any live action drama series, and at times, they might even forget they are watching an animation.”
cottonwood.tv
Hold on Gaston!
Producer/Distributor: Dandelooo
Created by: Aurélie Chien Chow Chine, Chloé Sastre & Romain Gadiou, adapted from the book series Les émotions de Gaston” by Aurélie Chien Chow Chine (Hachette Enfants)
Format: 52 x 11’
Type of Animation: 2D
Target Audience: Upper Preschool
Delivery Date: Q4 2025
Synopsis: Welcome to Corneville-la-Joie! In this peaceful village surrounded by green hills, life is really nice. This is the home of Gaston (and his friends), a young unicorn whose magical rainbow mane changes colors according to his emotions!
Stand-Out Qualities: This educational comedy series based on the hugely successful children’s book series Gaston’s Emotions, teaches children to identify emotions and manage them effectively. The series offers humor, social and emotional skills, expression and understanding of emotions and collective life, diversity, tenderness, strength of family and friendship ties, magic, dreams, music, nature, mindfulness and problem solving.
Exec Quote: Emmanuèle Pétry Sirvin, producer & head of international at Dandelooo, notes, “This unique comedy will help kids to understand their own emotions and how to deal with them in a fun way. The series is full of creativity and with the cuteness of Gaston with his charm and humor.”
dandelooo.com
A Mouse Called Julian
Format: 52 x 11’ series + 26′ special
Target Audience: Preschool & Family
Type of Animation: CGI
Created by: Developed by Mercury Filmworks based on a book by Joe-Todd Stanton
Synopsis: A Mouse Called Julian is the tale of a mouse who is perfectly happy avoiding other animals. They seem to just get in the way, and sometimes even try to eat him! But one day, Julian has an unexpected dinner guest … When the fox tries to sneak into Julian’s burrow for a tasty bite of mouse, it finds itself stuck headfirst in Julian’s front door! At first alarmed and wary, they soon find themselves having a lovely dinner together, and it’s not long before each realizes that they have found a lifelong friend.
Stand-Out Qualities: The positive messaging in the story is a stand-out. It’s about the importance of friendship and taking the time to look at people a little deeper. The series includes the warmth, texture and charm of a traditional 2D show with the added depth of CGI.
Exec Quote: Heath Kenny, Mercury Filmworks’ CCO, tells us, “A Mouse Called Julian is one of three original series in development at Mercury Filmworks that are based on acclaimed literary works that deliver a wealth of creativity with which to bring the stories to life. This series delivers engaging characters and storylines and it’s a powerful celebration of finding friendship in unexpected places. A message that will resonate with kids all over the world. A Mouse Called Julian also marks our expansion into CGI production, and we look forward to presenting it to buyers at MIPJunior.”
Delivery Date: 2025
mercuryfilmworks.com/work/a-mouse-called-julian
Joy Eternal
Produced by: Fiilin Good Films (Finland); pre-production and production by CarpeDiem Film & TV and Mago Productions (Spain).
Created by: Juha Fiilin
Format: 13 x 11’
Target Audience: Teens
Type of Animation: Cut-out and Digital/Traditional 2D
Synopsis: When brave 16-year-old Joy tries to take down the murderous mega-corporation H&H, she fails twice, resulting in the death of herself and her parents. In the afterlife, she teams up with geeky security intern Oogle to destroy H&H in the afterlife. She also discovers that she can levitate if she suppresses her emotions!
Stand-Out Qualities: This visually rich and imaginative animated series explores themes of loss, grief, environmental crisis, and the power of never giving up. Joy is a strong and determined character who is willing to stand up for what she believes in, even when it’s difficult. The series is also full of humor and adventure, and it offers a unique social commentary on the world we live in. Etienne Aubry (Rick and Morty) is the animation director and Benoît Godbout is the consulting director.
Exec Quote: “We are really excited to see Joy Eternal come to life on YLE platforms this fall!” says YLE producer Salla-Rosa Leinonen. “Many teens and pre-teens watch animation made for adults, but now we can finally offer an animated series really made for them with lots of attention to details.”
pinkparrotmedia.ca
What’s Up Eesha?
Producer: TeamTO; executive producer: Corinne Kouper; creative development executive: Mary Bredin;
director: Loïc Espuche
Target Audience: Preschool, 4-6
Format: 11 x 52′
Type of Animation: CG
Synopsis: Eesha is an imaginative penguin who loves to create, but she frequently finds her plans disrupted by her rambunctious fun-seeking friends. Set in whimsical Snowtop, this series follows the twists and turns of an arctic community’s unexpected adventures as they learn to live together, with all the comedy, silliness and occasional miscommunication that comes from a group effort!
Exec Quotes: “In this series, there are no villains, just the occasional conflicting needs. Even when Eesha is in need of some alone time away from friends, she makes sure never to offend them. After all, even if they’re a bit clingy, they are her best pals!” says Loïc Espuche. Adds Mary Bredin, “We are surrounded by lots of bad news these days which even kids feel. So, stories about how a positive little penguin works with others to find a happy and perhaps unexpected solution feels like the show we need for these times.”
teamto.com
The Invisibles
Created by: Lotura Films
Format: 26 x 7′
Target Audience: Kids 6-9
Type of Animation: 2D and CG
Synopsis: What do you get when you mix humor, friendship and just a touch of science? This entertaining and educational show follows the adventures of loveable micro-organisms set in a visually attractive, fantasy world. Young audiences will explore some of the hidden corners of our planet along with The Invisibles and learn about the values of empathy and teamwork along the way.
Stand-Out Qualities: The show beautifully mixes humor and entertainment, while teaching kids about science.
Exec Quote: “We strongly believe that we were able to find a bridge to connect the world of science (an invisible world) with young viewers at home through great adventures and comedy,” says series producer Miren Berasategi.
Delivery Date: 2026
loturafilms.eus
Isadora Moon
Producers: Kelebek Media for Warner Bros. Discovery (U.S.) & Sky Kids (U.K.)
Distributed by: APC Kids
Format: 48 x 11’ and 2 x 22’
Target Audience: Children aged 4-7
Type of Animation: 2D Animation
Synopsis: Isadora — half fairy, half vampire — doesn’t realize just how special she is! She might have a lot to learn about the human world but with some luck (and her fairy wand and vampire skills) she’ll find her way through all sorts of astonishing adventures and to all sorts of extraordinary friends.
Stand-Out Qualities: Based on the hit book series created by global publishing phenomenon Harriet Muncaster, with over 4.3 million copies sold worldwide in 36 different languages, the character has a huge following among children globally.
Exec Quote: Lionel Marty, Managing Director of APC Kids, tells us, “Isadora Moon is a magical, vibrant series filled with adventure, curiosity and self-acceptance. Isadora is an enchanting protagonist who is discovering her place in the world and learning how to define and embrace who she is through her heritage, a theme that resonates with millions of children around the world. We’re looking forward to introducing a brand-new version of Harriet Muncaster’s beloved characters to global audiences at MIPCOM.”
Delivery Date: Episodes available to view from September 2023
aboutpremiumcontent.com
Buddybot
Producer: Xilam Animation; co-directed by Ahmed Guerrouache and Audrey Logeais
Format: 52 x 11’
Target Audience: Kids aged 6-10 years old
Type of Animation: 2D Animation
Created by: Vincent Souchon
Synopsis: The series tells the story of the friendship between Chloe, an ordinary 12-year-old girl, and Buddybot, a little robot from the future. Sent by a mysterious creator, the robot comes from a time when the effects of climate change have drastically taken their toll. Buddybot wants him and Chloe to take action now, in order to instill positive change for the future. In other words: Save the world!
Exec Quote: Marc du Pontavice, Founder and CEO at Xilam Animation, says, “Comedy continues to be central to our company ethos, but it’s exciting to now use the genre as a way to approach timely and important topics. We’re sure Chloe and Buddybot’s heart-warming friendship and mission to save the world will resonate with audiences everywhere. We look forward to introducing the comical series to the international market at MIPCOM 2023.”
Delivery Date: Q3 2024
xilam.com
Cracké Family Scramble
Producer: Squeeze Animation Studios
Distributor: Cake
Created by: Patrick Beaulieu & Denis Doré
Format: 52 x 7’ mins.
Target Audience: Four years and up, and all the family
Type of Animation: 3D
Synopsis: In Cracké Family Scramble, the fun antics and over-the-top adventures continue as overprotective first-time daddy ostrich, Ed, scrambles to keep control over his household. New to parenting and on his own with eight kids, Ed tries to be the best dad he can and luckily, his unlimited cartoon powers and ingenious creativity compensate for his lack of experience!
Stand-Out Qualities: This is a non-dialog, slapstick comedy based on a popular comedy franchise.
Exec Quote: “We are excited to be working with Squeeze on Cracké Family Scramble, a fun, family-first, high quality adventure series, in which hilarious stories and physical humor centered around family life and the many challenges of an inexperienced parent!” says Edward Galton, distributor Cake’s CEO.
Delivery Date: Available now!
cakeentertainment.com
A Horse Named Steve
Created by: Co-developed and co-produced by Sixteen South and Corus Entertainment’s Nelvana based on the acclaimed picture book by Toronto author-illustrator Kelly Collier published by Kids Can Press.
Distributor: Sixteen South Rights
Format: 52 x 11′
Type of Animation: 2D
Target Audience: Children 4-7
Synopsis: Steve is a fine horse. But he thinks he could be finer. He wants to be exceptional! With a distinctive visual style filled with slapstick comedy and an undeniable silliness, A Horse Named Steve follows our most innocent, naïve and loveable hero on his mission to be his best self.
Stand-Out Qualities: Distinctive visual style, hilarious storylines, larger than life antics, slapstick comedy and a loveable hero who teaches children about the importance of friendship, teamwork and appreciating one’s true self.
Exec Quote: Colin Williams, Creative Director, Sixteen South says: “With its quirky visual style and offbeat humour, A Horse Named Steve is the perfect addition to the Sixteen South stable. We hope that the laugh-out-loud antics of this endearingly self-absorbed horse will delight its young audience and see Steve galloping on to global success!”
sixteensouth.tv
Super Random Stories
Produced by: ImagicTV and Scared Ghost
Created by: Mireia Hernández and Sergi Hernández
Format: 26 x 11′
Target Audience: Kids 5-8
Type of Animation: 2D
Synopsis: Lea and her younger brother Eric set out to protect the forest near their farm, which is home to magical characters and fantastic stories. The amazing world, known also to their Grandmother Angela, is slowly vanishing because people have stopped believing in it.
Stand-Out Qualities: The stories that take place in the show are universal and can be recognized and enjoyed by viewers all over the world. Stylistically, the animation offers more freedom of expression for the artists, similar to the early American animated shorts of the 1920s.
Exec Quote: Jordi B. Oliver, producer at Imagic TV says, “Super Random Stories immediately caught our attention as we see saw in it the perfect series that bridges two generations. Through a unique and marvellous design that takes us back to the good old days of animation, we plunge into universal stories we’d like to preserve.”
Delivery Date: June 2025
scaredghost.com / imagic-tv.com
Aquila
Producers: Zodiak Kids & Family France, co-produced by Tiger Aspect Kids & Family
Created by: Award-winning writer and illustrator Henry Paker
Format: 52 x 11′
Target Audience: Kids 7+
Type of Animation: 2D
Synopsis: Aquila is an animated sitcom following our hero, in a hilarious medieval world which looks a bit like the 21st Century, but somehow completely different. Our hero Aquila replies to an ad for an exciting career opportunity at the palace: to work for an unpredictable minor royal, Princess Winifred, as her personal YeMail assistant!
Stand-Out Qualities: An original comedy series, from the creators of Totally Spies! and Mr. Bean: The Animated Series, Aquila hits the beats of a modern sitcom, set in a unique bustling medieval metropolis filled with visual gags.
Exec Quote: Tom Beattie, managing director of Tiger Aspect Kids & Family says, “Coming from the genius mind and hand of the creator, Henry Paker, Aquila is packed with visual humour with modern-day elements that the viewers will recognize, even though it’s set in a medieval world. With great writing and funny illustrations, Aquila is an action-packed animated comedy that we know ye will all love.”
banijaykidsandfamily.com/companies/zodiak-kids-family-france / banijaykidsandfamily.com/companies/tiger-aspect-kids-and-family
The Wolfbjorns
Created by: Liam Swann, developed by BBC Ignite, BBC Studios Kids & Family
Distributor: BBC Studios Kids & Family
Format: 52 x 11′
Type of Animation: 2D
Target Audience: Kids 7-10
Synopsis: Animated in mockumentary-style, this hilarious but heart-warming series follows the daily lives of a quirky Viking family as they navigate the challenges of being different in the modern world. As the Wolfbjorns attempt to fit into modern society, they encounter numerous challenges and cultural clashes that give rise to farcical situations.
Stand-Out Qualities: An uproarious character-driven comedy with an unforgettable ensemble cast about fitting in when your family stands out. This relatable and unfiltered portrayal of an embarrassing family brims with strong British and working-class sensibilities that find inspiration from the outlandish real-life tales of the creator’s own rambunctious upbringing.
Exec Quote: Tony Reed, production creative cirector at BBC Studios Kids & Family says, “If you’ve ever found yourself in an awkward situation, unsure how you fit in and embarrassed by your family then, like me, you’ll see a bit of yourself in Ulf Wolfbjorn. Ulf and his unconventional family remind us how important it is to laugh (sometimes at ourselves) and not take life too seriously.”
productions.bbcstudios.com
Jonny Jetboy
Producers: Beijing IQIYI Science & Technology Co., LTD, WingSing Animation Studio and WildBrain Studios
Distributor: WildBrain
Created by: Keith Chapman
Format: 40 x 11’ (or 20 x 22’)
Target Audience: Preschool, 4-7
Type of Animation: CG Animation
Synopsis: Learning how to be a hero is at the heart of this action-packed animated series: Jonny Jones is the youngest member a family of superheroes known as The Jetfleet! Like every family, they don’t always get along, but when they work together, all the villains in the world can’t stop them!
Stand-Out Qualities: High-speed, high-energy action; an entertaining, more-silly-than-scary rogue’s gallery of baddies that plague Calamity Canyon; family dynamics — Jetboy and Jetgirl often have a hard time working together, with opposite approaches to problems, but their opposite approaches balance one another to make a great team.
Exec Quote: Caroline Tyre, VP of global sales & rights strategy at WildBrain, says, “It’s been fantastic to collaborate with iQIYI on Jonny Jetboy and to see another creation of Keith Chapman come to life. With Jonny Jetboy, Keith has once again used his creative genius to craft a series that we know has all the right ingredients to entertain families worldwide. We can’t wait to introduce Jonny and the JetFleet to the international market at MIPJunior and MIPCOM.”
Delivery Date: 2024
wildbrain.com
Starpets
Producer: Ubisoft
Created by: Stéphane Berla (Director), Éric Judor, Hafid Benamar, Baptiste Nicolai (writers)
Format: 8 x 15’
Target Audience: 15+
Type of Animation: CG (Quill)
Synopsis: Intergalactic emperor, Jean-Yves Lapude, is pretty pissed off. His mother, a fortune teller and grey eminence, prophesied that a Chosen One should soon put an end to his tyrannical reign. Although Lapude finds and kills the Chosen One, Jacques, he cannot prevent him from transferring 25% of his brilliant brain into a Rabbid’s body. In the process, the Chosen One is turned into Ken Rabbid: 25% genius, 75% dumb.
Stand-Out Qualities: Space Opera on acid; a unique CG style; absurd comedy!
Exec Quote: Producer Hugo Revon says, “Mixing visual edginess with absurd comedy tone, we believe our space opera Starpets has everything to become a new landmark in French animation.
ubisoft.com
