Studio 100 International Announces ‘Maya the Bee’ Spinoff Film ‘Arnie & Barney’

Ahead of the American Film Market, Studio 100 International has announced the production of Arnie & Barney, an animated action-comedy adventure about two unlikely little heroes. The movie marks the first major spin-off of the popular Maya the Bee franchise as a completely new story from a fresh perspective on the insect world.

Targeting older audiences — including, kids, teens and families — Arnie & Barney is expected to deliver in Q1-2026, with Studio 100 Film handling global sales. The project is produced by by Studio 100 International, together with Studio Isar Animation and 3 Doubles Producciones as service partner.

Synopsis: In the midst of a severe drought, the ant platoon sets out to save their community, but the hilariously inept Arnie and Barney — definitely not cut out for heroics — decide to tackle the problem themselves. Their bumbling effort leads them to uncover a shady water racket and team up with a secretive superhero mosquito. In a series of comical mishaps, they inadvertently save the meadow and become the most unlikely heroes of all!

Arnie & Barney promises a blend of action, humor, friendship and heroism while bringing the iconic ant characters to the forefront. The titular duo are voiced by Australian comedy phenomenon, Shane Dundas and David Collins, a.k.a. The Umbilical Brothers. Named as two of Entertainment Weekly’s “100 Most Creative People in Entertainment”, they have also contributed to the script written by Fin Edquist (200% Wolf, 100% Wolf, Maya the Bee movie trilogy). The voice recording has already been completed to ensure Dundas and Collins’ comedy chops are spotlighted through production.

“This production is very close to our hearts,” says Thorsten Wegener, Producer and Director Business Operations at Studio 100 International. “It’s a story about how the most unexpected characters can rise to the challenge and become heroes. We believe it will resonate with anyone who loves adventure, and humor. It’s thrilling to see Arnie and Barney, who were originally fan-favorite side characters, step into the spotlight.”

Studio 100 Film will be presenting the project at AFM in Las Vegas, office #16-203 at the Palms Casino Resort.

studio100film.com