Animation Magazine

Stuttgart Animation Fest Reveals International Program Highlights

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February 23, 2023

Stuttgart Animation Fest Reveals International Program Highlights

“Animation Connects!” is the motto of the anniversary edition of the Stuttgart International Festival of Animated Film (ITFS), which will hold its 30th edition from April 25-30. In line with this motto, the 2023 program will focus on connections between the audience, professionals, artists, talents and established filmmakers.

Across different film programs and events, a spectrum of presentations from “best of” programs to the most current films and topics will screen at various venues in Stuttgart, including the Schlossplatz and the Innenstadtkinos, with the goal of bringing the world of animation together in the German hub.

Tickets for accreditation and festival passes are now available at ITFS.de/en/tickets. Early Bird rates are available until March 15.

As always, the heart of the festival is the International Competition, featuring the latest must-see animated shorts from around the world. The diverse program showcases important themes such as the exploration of migration and trauma, sexuality and gender, environment, social anxiety and loneliness, as well as films exploring the “human abyss.” A selection of this year’s Oscar-nominated short films will also be screened.

See the complete short film competition lineup here; the AniMovie feature film competition will be announced soon.

Migration and Trauma

In Letter to a Pig (France/Israel, 2022), award-winning animator and visual artist Tal Kantor showcases a unique technique that combines drawing, photography, video, painting and animation. The story is about a Holocaust survivor reading a letter he wrote to the pig who saved his life. While listening, a young schoolgirl falls into a strange dream, where she is confronted with questions of identity, collective trauma, and the extremes of human nature.

Joseph Wallace’s Salvation Has No Name (Czech Republic/France/United Kingdom, 2022) is dedicated to the topics of migration and narrow-mindedness. A troupe performs a play about a priest and a refugee woman. As their misguided story unfolds, the boundaries between fiction and reality begin to blur and the situation escalates.

A View to the Human Abyss

The ITFS will screen the short film Scale (Belgium/France/United Kingdom, 2022) by award-winning filmmaker Joseph Pierce (among Screen International‘s “Stars of Tomorrow” in 2008). The film centers on a ma losing his sense of scale: As Will’s drug addiction gets worse, he tries to unravel the sequence of events that led to his predicament before he is lost forever.

French filmmaker Stéphanie Clément’s Pachyderme (2022) offers a glimpse into one of Louise’s summer days in the countryside with her grandparents. But the familiar is overshadowed by anxiety, sadness, and a monster so subtle and frightening.

Environment & Society, with a Pinch of Humor

In a humorous short film, the film Sandwich Cat by David Fidalgo Omil (Spain, 2022) shows us a mirror image of humanity with all its good and especially bad qualities. David himself plays a decisive role. Can we humans still be saved?

In 2031, a young female polar bear has to leave her home due to global warming and moves to Zurich. Together with the other animals who have fled, she manages to get by with odd jobs. But then she has a world-changing idea! The Invention of Less by Noah Erni (Switzerland, 12/2021) shows in a humorous and entertaining way how the world might be saved by a little trick.

Oscar-Nominated Films at ITFS

In addition to some nominated shorts that screened at ITFS last year, this year’s ITFS is screening several Oscar nominated films:

João Gonzalez was the first Portuguese filmmaker ever to be nominated for an Academy Award. In addition to the Jury Prize for Best Short Film in the Critics’ Week Competition at the Cannes Film Festival, Ice Merchants (France/Portugal/United Kingdom, 2022) received a nomination for Best European Short Film at the 2022 European Film Awards. The film tells the story of a father and his son who parachute out of their vertiginous cliff-mounted cold house every day to go to the distant village on the ground where they sell their ice.

The Flying Sailor by Amanda Forbis & Wendy Tilby (Canada, 2022) is a film based on a true incident and a meditation on the unexpected voyage of a sailor.

In addition, the Oscar-nominated film My Year of Dicks (Sara Gunnarsdottir, Iceland/U.S.A., 2022) will be screened in the ITFS supporting program.

Social Anxieties and Loneliness

In Passenger (Pasajero) by Juan Pablo Zaramella (Argentina, 2022), we accompany a man on his train journey where he gets into numerous social conflicts. He travels from the solitude of the countryside to the populated city, establishes superficial relationships with random passengers, confronts them with their social codes and finally processes these deep inside himself to find a way to adapt to his surroundings.

The dark stop-motion film Dog-Apartment (Koerkorter, Estonia, 2022) by award-winning animator Priit Tender is about the bizarre relationship between a discarded ballet dancer and his butcher, where he has a job to satisfy his voracious rented apartment. A film full of metaphor, about daily routines, broken souls trapped in a bleak world with their anxieties and hardships.

Gender & Identity

The Romanian short film Sasha by Serghei Chiviriga (2022) is about a teenager in the shape of a snail, who, confused by the whole world and the own body, is forced to discover the truth about the own sexual identity in a strange way.

Green Kids Club Taps Lakeside Animation to Boot Up ‘Imagin-Atrix’

Mercedes Milligan

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February 23, 2023

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Green Kids Club Taps Lakeside Animation to Boot Up ‘Imagin-Atrix’

Iouri Stepanov and his Lakeside Animation studio have partnered with Aron Dunn/Treason Media to bring the new Welcome to the Imagin-Atrix animated series, written and developed by Dunn, to animated life. The show centers on a pop-culture obsessed tween named Dave who makes his makes his fan fantasies come true with the help of an incredible device.

“Based on my long-standing relationship with Iouri and the team at Lakeside, I knew they were a perfect partner this project,” said Dunn. “I’m thrilled that they want to be part of this riotous celebration of imagination. Iouri’s team of amazing artists will render an eye-popping world that I’m sure audiences will want to leap into and join Dave on his adventures.”

Stepanov/Lakeside acquired the option/development rights to the project in an agreement with Green Kids Club. The ThinkTank Emporium and Treason Media initially teamed up with children’s author Sylvia Medina to develop this imaginative animated comedy.

“It is indeed a pleasure to be working with Aron once again on this uniquely creative animated comedy concept,” said Stepanov.

Synopsis: When overly-imaginative, 11-year-old Dave finds an alien device called the IMAGIN-ATRIX, he unlocks the power to bring his wildest daydreams to life. Now, this pop-culture obsessed kid and his friends can embark on adventures through their favorite comics, video games, movies and more. Each time Dave rewrites the world he faces a new challenge that he must overcome in order to reset the Imagin-Atrix. Reality is never going to be the same again.

“We are pleased to be working with Iouri and his studio to bring Welcome to the Imagin-Atrix to a global audience via various media platforms and licensed product opportunities,” said consultant David Wollos, Co-Founder of The ThinkTank Emporium. “The sheer potential in all these areas for Welcome to the Imagin-Atrix is a wonderful asset for all concerned and its strategic relationship with Aron.”

Green Kids Club creator, environmental engineer and author Sylvia Medina, who helped develop the new series, added, “I’m delighted to be working with Aron again. I knew he had the epic imagination, unique perspective and ability to make kids laugh. While the spark of inspiration came from one young boy, together we’ve crafted a series that will appeal to children worldwide and ignite their imaginations.”

lakesideanimation.com | treasonmedia.ca | thethinktankemporium.com

Viva Kids Brings ‘Inspector Sun,’ ‘Epic Tails,’ ‘Dragonkeeper’ & R.L. Stine’s ‘Zombie Town’ to U.S. Theaters (EXCLUSIVE)

Mercedes Milligan

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February 23, 2023

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Viva Kids Brings ‘Inspector Sun,’ ‘Epic Tails,’ ‘Dragonkeeper’ & R.L. Stine’s ‘Zombie Town’ to U.S. Theaters (EXCLUSIVE)

On the heels of the successful opening of The Amazing Maurice across 1,700-plus screens in the U.S., Viva Kids has locked in theatrical release dates for the remainder of its 2023 PG-rated slate, which includes TAT Productions’ Epic Tails, the Samuel Goldwyn Writing Awards screenplay winner Inspector Sun, the highly anticipated Dragonkeeper and R.L. Stine’s Zombie Town, starring Dan Aykroyd, Chevy Chase and TikTok star Madi Monroe.

After The Amazing Maurice premiered at this year’s Sundance Film Festival, Viva released the critically acclaimed indie exclusively in theaters on February 3 with a 45-day theatrical window and successfully grossed over $2.6 million at the U.S. box office in its first 10 days.

“As a true independent film distributor Viva is thrilled to not only see The Amazing Maurice succeed at the box office, but also garner positive acclaim from critics and audiences alike,” says Victor Elizalde, President of Viva Kids. “We are confident our 2023 slate of movies will draw in theater-goers and keep the kids/family momentum going.”

Described as The Secret Life of Pets meets Hercules, Viva will release Epic Tails theatrically in the U.S. on May 12. The film also known as Argonuts in Europe tells the story of Pattie, a quirky, intelligent mouse and her feline friend Sam, as they embark upon an exciting adventure through Ancient Greece.

Epic Tails is led by The Jungle Bunch director David Alaux and producer Jean-François Tosti, who both co-founded TAT productions with writer Éric Tosti. Viva Kids previously distributed TAT’s Terra Willy (2020) and Pil’s Adventures (2022), both of which were an international success and garnered critical acclaim.

The family-friendly crime mystery Inspector Sun is slated for a domestic theatrical release on September 1. With shades of Murder on the Orient Express, Inspector Sun unfolds in the glamorous travel age of the 1930s, on a seaplane en route from Shanghai to San Francisco.

Inspector Sun is a co-production of The Thinklab Media and Gordon Box in association with 3Doubles Productions. The film was directed by Julio Soto Gúrpide (Deep) from a screenplay by Rocco Pucillo who won the 2013 Samuel Goldwyn Writing Award for this script. Viva’s Senior Vice President Laura Prieto negotiated the U.S. distribution deal with Peter Rogers of Kapers Animation.

Viva has set an October 27 theatrical date for Dragonkeeper. The Spain-China co-production features the voices of Bill Nighy (Love Actually), Bill Bailey (Hot Fuzz), Anthony Howell (Alien: Isolation) and newcomer Mayalinee Griffiths. Based on the first book in Carole Wilkinson’s series of fantasy novels, the film follows Ping, a young orphan who must venture across ancient China to help the last surviving dragons from extinction. Across her wild and dangerous journey Ping finds a way to unlock her power and discover that she is a true dragonkeeper.

Early visual development on the film comes from animation vet Sergio Pablos (Despicable Me, director of Klaus), while the film is directed by Salvador Simó (Buñuel in the Labyrinth of the Turtles). The film is set to be the biggest completed Spain-China co-production to date.

Closing out 2023, Viva is planning a day-and-date theatrical for R.L. Stine’s Zombie Town, to be timed with Huluween. A family-friendly, action-packed adventure based on Stine’s book of the same name, Zombie Town stars Dan Aykroyd (Ghostbusters, Driving Miss Daisy), TikTok superstar Madi Monroe (A Piece of Cake, Around the World in 80 Days), comedic legend Chevy Chase (Vacation, Caddyshack), with a cameo from the author himself. Blending teen romance, humor and mystery, Zombie Town is a love letter to fans of R.L. Stine and millennial cult classics such as Halloweentown and the Goosebumps series.

Winsing Animation Will Unveil a New WIP Slate at HKFilmart

Mercedes Milligan

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February 23, 2023

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Winsing Animation Will Unveil a New WIP Slate at HKFilmart

China’s Winsing Animation will be attending Asia’s leading entertainment content market, Hong Kong International Film and Television Market (HKFilmart), to present its upcoming slate of new animated titles. Winsing will be based in the Guangdong Pavilion during the show, from March 13-16.

With the return of HKFilmart to an in-person trade event for the first time in three years, entertainment players in the region are eager to accelerate the market’s recovery. Winsing has seized the opportunity to grow and expand its animation production offerings during the hard COVID times. Now, Winsing heads to Hong Kong with a content-rich lineup, with more than 10 new animated series and film titles.

Taking the lead is the latest animated feature film in the GG Bond Racing franchise, Racing 72H, a highly anticipated family film set to premiere in theaters this year.

In addition to Winsing’s flagship IP GG Bond and GOGOBUS, as well as Team S.T.E.A.M.!, which will be aired on Hong Kong VIU TV starting February 27, the studio will unveil multiple work-in-progress animation titles that target different age groups — particularly youth-oriented 3D-animated series across the genres of fantasy adventure, mecha action, sci fi, hand-painted-style sitcoms and Chinese traditional culture and myths.

Winsing will hold a substantial project presentation to introduce several new anime slate at Filmart, seeking distribution and co-production partners for its upcoming slate.

Lonesome George Comes Out of His Shell in CG Film from 8th Gear & Radar Pictures (EXCLUSIVE)

Mercedes Milligan

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February 23, 2023

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Lonesome George Comes Out of His Shell in CG Film from 8th Gear & Radar Pictures (EXCLUSIVE)

James Leon’s 8th Gear Entertainment and Ted Field’s Radar Pictures are teaming up to bring the famous giant tortoise Lonesome George and his remarkable true story to life on the big screen in a new 3D CGI-animated family adventure movie.

The real Lonesome George was known as the rarest creature on Earth, the last known individual of his Pinta Island subspecies. His life and story continue to inspire and serve as an international symbol for conservation efforts in the Galápagos Islands and throughout the world.

“Lonesome George is a remarkable true story of a one-of-a-kind survivor,” says Leon. “The legend of Lonesome George is a cherished part of Ecuadorian history and beloved by people around the world. This is the first time Lonesome George, and his story, will be brought to the big screen.”

From a story by Leon in collaboration with James Byrkit (writer on the Academy Award-winning animated feature Rango), the movie will follow Lonesome George, the giant tortoise of the Galápagos, who is the last of his kind, as he sets out on an epic adventure with a ragtag team of animal friends to find others like him — and discovers the true meaning of family.

“This will be a brilliant, animated feature that is hugely enjoyable for kids, grownups and everyone in between,” notes Field. “There is something for everyone here and we’re proud that it also delivers an environmental message that everyone can get behind.”

Leon, who runs Miami-based production company 8th Gear Entertainment, is producing Lonesome George alongside Radar Pictures’ Field (Jumanji and Chronicles of Riddick franchises, The Last Samurai), Anthony Tringali, Maria Frisk, and Michael Napoliello, with Byrkit serving both as both producer and screenwriter.

The movie aims to bring to light environmental issues that affect our planet, conservation and the ongoing evolution of ecosystems and its impact on the future of the environment and the world. A percentage of the revenue generated by the film will be donated to the Leaders for Change Foundation, which brings awareness to the necessary protection of the Galápagos Islands and their irreplaceable ecological wonders.

“We have taken careful consideration in supporting a project like this, which expresses the importance of maintaining the ecological homeostasis of this beautiful region and conservation of its endemic species. That is why I, as the President of Ecuador, and the Ministry of the Environment, fully endorse this magnificent project, because we believe in its educational value, in the impact it will have on scientific research, and in the help it will provide in raising awareness of the significance of its existence,” Ecuador President Guillermo Lasso Mendoza asserts.

“Being considered a Natural Heritage of Humanity is a source of pride not only for Ecuadorians but for all those wanting to make an impact on environmental awareness. This movie will ultimately bring the attention it deserves.”

Today, George is preserved at the Charles Darwin Research Station in Ecuador, where he is visited by over a hundred thousand fans every year. As a tribute to George and his legacy, his image is enshrined as the logo of the Galápagos Conservancy and The Charles Darwin Foundation.

In addition to Lonesome George, 8th Gear Entertainment and Radar Pictures are partnering to bring the fast paced sport of FIA ABB Formula E racing to the big screen via a female-centered, racing action-thriller titled Breakneck, which is planned a franchise starter in the vein of Fast & Furious with full FIA ABB Formula E backing and participation.

Mainframe Studios Celebrates 30 Years of Making Life More Animated

Mercedes Milligan

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February 22, 2023

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Mainframe Studios Celebrates 30 Years of Making Life More Animated

Vancouver-based animation production pioneer Mainframe Studios is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2023, having grown over the past three decades into a global toon powerhouse bringing both original content and shows for major players like Mattel, Sony, Spin Master, Hasbro, DreamWorks, Netflix and YouTube to the screen.

“With our 30-year track record of Mainframe Studios producing some of the most iconic animated properties, we approach every day like a startup — challenging ourselves to deliver new and exciting creative innovation to every project we undertake,” says Michael Hefferon, President & Chief Creative Officer at Mainframe Studios.

Executive Vice President Kim Dent Wilder adds, “As we celebrate our 30th anniversary, we’re proud of the impact that Mainframe Studios has had on helping to shape the animation industry, including being a catalyst for many studios started over the years whose founders are Mainframe alumni.”

Colleagues shared in toasting the studio’s success. “In a business where trust is built over time, Mainframe’s longevity is a testament to the studio’s quality of work and its partnership approach with clients,” says Andy Heyward, Chairman & CEO Genius Brands International. And Michael Hirsh, CEO Wow Unlimited Media, notes, “As someone who has a history of building legacy companies, Mainframe Studios has uniquely positioned itself to continue this amazing track record for the next 30 years.”

Founded in 1993, Mainframe was a trailblazer from day one, creating and producing the very first fully-CG TV series, ReBoot, in 1994. This was followed by Spider-Man: The New Animated Series for MTV, the first large-scale, toon-shaded CG series. Most recently, Mainframe’s ReBoot: The Guardian Code marked another milestone as the studio’s first live-action production and the first TV series to use the Unreal game engine, delivering in 4K.

Through it all, Mainframe Studios has strived to balance its creative vision with the state of technology, while pushing the boundaries of both to bring engaging new stories to life. In total, the studio has produced well over 1,000 half-hour episodes for television, 70-plus long form projects that include three theatrical feature films, as well as content for huge brands such as Barbie, Octonauts, Madagascar and CoComelon. Recently, Octonauts & The Ring of Fire won an Emmy Award for Outstanding Sound Mixing & Sound Editing in 2022.

“Our relationship with Mainframe has spanned multiple series and specials over five-plus. They continue to be collaborative partners in producing top quality animation and helping to build our brands. We look forward to our continued work together,” comments Joe D’Ambrosia, EVP & General Manager, Sony Pictures Television -Kids.

Mainframe’s commitment to a creative-driven approach has helped nurture a nearly 25-year relationship (over 60 projects) with Mattel. To date, the studio has delivered numerous Barbie titles, including movies, series, shorts, the Barbie Vlog and debut interactive adventure, Barbie: Epic Road Trip. In 2001, Mainframe Studios was the first to use motion-capture technology for animation and built their own state-of-the-art mo-cap theater.

“Collaborating with Mainframe over the years to provide fans of the iconic Barbie brand with highly entertaining, animated content has been a true pleasure,” says Christopher Keenan, SVP Creative & Executive Producer at Mattel Television. “With several of our latest projects, including Barbie: Epic Road Trip and Barbie Mermaid Power ranking impressively on global streaming platforms, we are proud to be working with Mainframe and to be celebrating our relationship of nearly 30 years.”

Mainframe’s other notable accomplishments include: being added to the Smithsonian’s Innovation Collection for creating the first CG animated TV series, ReBoot (1994); producing the first non-theatrical animated feature, Casper’s Haunted Christmas; launching a relationship with Silvergate Media (now Sony Pictures Television – Kids) with three feature-length productions: Octonauts and the Caves of Sac Actun, Octonauts & the Great Barrier Reef and Octonauts & The Ring of Fire; along with producing the Madagascar: A Little Wild series for DreamWorks Animation and Team Zenko Go, the studio’s first co-production with DreamWorks Animation.

Original content in the ReBoot tradition a continues to be a studio mainstay. In 2012, the Mainframe produced Escape from Planet Earth, a theatrical feature film developed in-house that went on to do $75 million in worldwide box office, and followed that success with the Ratchet & Clank feature film released in 2016. On the series side, Mainframe created and produced ReBoot: The Guardian Code and Team Zenko Go, both Netflix Original Series, and recently released its first 2D original series, The Guava Juice Show, produced with YouTube Originals.

Mainframe is currently producing The EggVenturers in partnership with GoldieBlox for YouTube, along with Coyote & The WildAways, working with Coyote Peterson, whose Brave Wilderness YouTube channel has 20 million subscribers.

For more information on Mainframe Studios, please visit mainframe.ca.

We Are Royale Makes a Splash with ‘Wade in the Water’ Intro Inspired by African Myth and Basquiat

Mercedes Milligan

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February 22, 2023

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We Are Royale Makes a Splash with ‘Wade in the Water’ Intro Inspired by African Myth and Basquiat

Creative production company We Are Royale (WAR) has created the opening titles for the documentary feature Wade in the Water: A Journey Into Black Surfing and Aquatic Culture. Directed, written, and produced by David Mesfin, Wade in the Water recently made its U.S. premiere to a sold out audience at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival.

Film Synopsis:

Wade in the Water reclaims the 1,000-year-old tradition of Black surfing … Honoring the historical and contemporary relationship between Black people and the ocean, Mesfin explores the undying, intergenerational energy of Black waterwomen and watermen.

Breaking barriers in the world of film, the ultimate intention of the project is to inspire and support the next generation of Black surfers by connecting them to the powerful, dynamic, and resilient roots of Black surfing’s legacy.

The project includes a full-length documentary paired with a series of limited-edition fine art portrait prints and NFTs.

To create the film’s lush animated opening sequence, WAR took inspiration from the African mythological water deity Mami Wata to tell a story of ancestral reconnection through surfing. The piece is made up of painterly vignettes which blend aesthetic influences from African folk art and iconic Neo-expressionist Jean-Michel Basquiat.

As the studio team points out, the spiritual “Wade in the Water” took on a coded meaning in Songs of the Underground Railroad as Harriet Tubman instructed enslaved African Americans to hide in water to mask their scent from tracking dogs. In the animated sequence, water is a symbol of redemption and empowerment as the goddess calls the surfer back to the waves.

“We were drawn to the spiritual aspect of David’s film and the relationship between surfing and Black identity, so, this idea of baptism by water emerged,” says WAR Creative Director Norn Jordan. “At the start, visually, everything on the surface of water feels light and uncomplicated; but when the surfer duck-dives under the wave, the ocean materializes into a darker, more complex world. We used imagery of serpents and shackles breaking apart to visually hint at the baptism that comes through Mami Wata’s reveal.”

Mesfin adds, “When you duck-dive, there’s a brief moment when you almost lose consciousness and become one with something bigger than yourself, and that feeling really speaks to the larger theme of Wade in the Water — being Black and reconnecting with your past and your identity through the ocean. WAR’s title sequence brilliantly encapsulates this idea with an Afro-centric visual narrative that celebrates surfing as a source of empowerment and healing. It’s a powerful piece of art in and of itself.”

WAR used archival footage to authentically capture the surfing moves animated in the opener, and took inspiration from the same source materials Mesfin accessed for the documentary — such as the books AFROSURF by Mami Wata Surf Brand (South Africa), Undercurrents of Power: Aquatic Culture in the African Diaspora by Kevin Dawson, and Living the California Dream: African American Leisure Sites during the Jim Crow Era by Alison Rose Jefferson.

The team pulled iconography of Mami Wata and the serpents from these books, as well as allusions to Sankofa, a West African bird symbol, whose name literally translates to, “it is not taboo to fetch what is at risk of being left behind.”

“The symbolism of the Sankofa was a big part of the documentary’s message; this idea of looking to your past to move forward,” concludes Mesfin. “We chose to use it more subtly, incorporating it into the Mami Wata character at the end when she blows a kiss to the surfer, freeing him from the weight of the water and back to the ocean’s surface.”

Wade in the Water and the animated opening sequence were directed by Mesfin, set to a poem by Mesfin and Napper Tandy, produced by Kira Gilmore Linton and Beyin Abraha. Jason Cook is executive creative director for We Are Royale, with Norn Jordan as CD, Michael Cauchi as producer and animation by Jared Norby and Dylan Casano.

Creative production studio WAR is based in Los Angeles and Seattle. The shop has delivered multiple projects for top video game companies like Riot, Activision Blizzard, Square Enix, Niantic, Bungie, PlayStation and Oculus, as well as work for clients including Audible, Comedy Central, FXX, Paramount Pictures and Prime Video. Learn more at weareroyale.com.

Learn more about Wade in the Water and find upcoming screenings at wadeinthewaterproject.com.

Mehran Sanei’s Animated Shorts Raise Awareness of the Fight for Freedom in Iran

Ramin Zahed

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February 22, 2023

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Mehran Sanei’s Animated Shorts Raise Awareness of the Fight for Freedom in Iran

Last year, U.K.- and Spain-based Iranian-British animator and creative director Mehran Sanei launched his Onimations Instagram collection of animated shorts on a variety of subjects such as “How to Face Suffering” and “What Makes a Good Story” to explore human development and social issues. Shortly after the launch of his enterprise, the powerful Women, Life, Freedom movement in Iran put the Islamic regime’s brutal human rights violations against women and girls into the global spotlight.

Sanei used his Onimations projects as a way to spread the message about these protests and the tragic death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who died in police custody after being arrested by Iran’s “morality police.” These Iran awareness videos have received over 16 million views on social media thanks to prominent contributors such as Nazanin Boniadi, Golshifteh Farahani and Maz Jobrani. We had a chance to speak with Sanei about his timely project and his future animated projects. Here is what he told us.

Animation Magazine: Can you tell us when your interest in animation began?

Mehran Sanei: I think I was in primary school when I watched a documentary about Walt Disney company on TV. I remember seeing adults in suits, observing and drawing a penguin. It looked very serious and I was so excited that such a job exists and people can make a living by making animations.

Who are some of your biggest animation heroes?

I have always been interested in animations which make you think about complex social and psychological issues. Chris Landreth’s Ryan had a significant impact on me and changed how I view animation. My favorite animator is Bruno Bozzetto.

Did you study animation in school?

I studied Computer Animation at the Bournemouth University, U.K., and received a Masters in 3D Character Animation at the Academy of Art University in San Francisco

How did you come up with the idea of pairing animation with important causes to raise awareness?

After the emergence of the Women, Life, Freedom movement, most Iranians who live abroad tried to be the voice of the brave protestors in Iran however they can. Being an animator, I used this art medium to convey the message. Art can be therapeutic for the creator, in addition to possibly having an impact on people from different backgrounds and cultures.

Where is the animation produced and which tools are used?

I create them on my personal Mac using After Effects.

What has the response to the Iranian Freedom project been like?

I’m overwhelmed by the kind and encouraging messages I get, especially from Iran. It has also been fantastic to get support from non-Iranians, such as the amazing photographers who graciously allowed me to utilize their micro-photography to create the characters and other elements for my animations, to support the cause.

Why do you think it’s so crucial to use animation to raise awareness of the atrocities of the Iranian government?

Animation is capable of raising awareness about a horrible situation and conveying the necessary emotions without having to show disturbing real videos and photos. Strong artistic imagery can stick with people for a very long period.

What has been the most memorable response to your animation?

For me, it’s unbelievable how far these animations have spread. From screening of the animations in a Czech movie theater to an article about my animations in a Greek magazine.

What do you hope to do next and where do you hope to take animations to?

I am working with some of my favorite international artists for the next animation projects, which truly excites me. I hope to enhance my minimalism animation style without being repetitive.

How do you think people should support this social movement in Iran as the regime continues to crack down on protestors and ignores the fundamental rights of young girls, women and anyone who doesn’t want to follow the rules of the country’s theocracy?

I think we should bring attention to what is happening in Iran around the world by any means we can. Politicians often don’t prioritize defending human rights in other countries, but if they notice that many people are concerned and discussing this issue, they may decide to alter their approach to Iran’s regime in order to appease their constituents. Additionally, they might anticipate a potential Iranian people-led regime transition and devise strategies to back the Iranian people rather than the ruling elite.

Learn more at onimations.com.

Gorillaz Animated Feature Out at Netflix, Says Co-Creator

Animation Magazine

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February 22, 2023

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Gorillaz Animated Feature Out at Netflix, Says Co-Creator

An animated feature adventure starring groundbreaking virtual band Gorillaz is not going forward at Netflix, co-creator Damon Albarn revealed in an interview with Belgian publication HUMO. While discussing the band’s imminent new album Cracker Island, Albarn explained (according to a Google translation from Dutch), “The new record came about because [co-creator Jamie Hewlett] and I were often in Los Angeles. We were working on a Gorillaz feature film, which will never happen.”

The album and its series of hybrid animated/live-action music videos produced by Nexus follow a musical storyline where the Gorillaz relocate to a hillside mansion in Silver Lake, and frontman Murdoc becomes a cult leader seeking to heal the world and stave off a day of reckoning.

Albarn elaborated to HUMO: “… Without naming names, because the whole matter has not yet been settled: The streaming platform for which we were making the film has withdrawn. They started to panic because they were making too much content and decided to cut back on their movie offerings. And, as has been classic Hollywood practice for decades, the guy we were working with has moved on to another company. From then on you have lost your guardian angel, and there seems to be a bad smell hanging on you.”

Despite not “naming names,” it is assumed that the project was underway at Netflix Animation, which has recently canceled fan-favorite and critically acclaimed series Dead End: Paranormal Park and Inside Job and backed away from Klaus director Sergio Pablos’ hand-drawn feature project Ember, on top of a raft of cuts to its slate in 2022.

After years of the creators hinting at an animated movie, Albarn revealed in a November 2021 interview with Apple Music that he was in L.A. “because we’re making a full-length Gorillaz film with Netflix,” adding with a smile, “We’re having a writing session in Malibu this afternoon.” However, the studio has not to date made an official announcement about the project.

The feature, which had earlier been explored as a partnership with DreamWorks Animation, seemed to be moving ahead of a 10-part animated series teased by Hewlett in an interview with Q back in 2017, ahead of the album launch for Humanz.

Cracker Island will be released this Friday, February 24. You can pre-order and digitally pre-save the album at gorillaz.com

[Sources: Stereogum, IGN]

Canadian Screen Awards: 2023 Animation Nominees

Mercedes Milligan

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February 22, 2023

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Canadian Screen Awards: 2023 Animation Nominees

Today, the Academy of Canadian Cinema & Television (the Canadian Academy) announced the nominees for the 2023 Canadian Screen Awards in 145 television, film and digital media categories, which also include the inaugural nominations in gender-neutral performance categories for lead and supporting performers in film and television.

“From legendary directors like David Cronenberg to new voices like Bilal Baig, the 2023 Canadian Screen Award nominees reaffirm that our country has an immensely talented industry, and we are lucky to call them Canadian,” said Tammy Frick, CEO, Academy of Canadian Cinema & Television. “Supporting these artists has never been more important, and we are proud to be at the centre of those efforts. I’m thrilled to share my heartfelt congratulations with all of the nominees and look forward to raising a glass to them in person this April.”

John Young, Chair, Academy of Canadian Cinema & Television, added, “The nominations for the 2023 Canadian Screen Awards shine a much-deserved spotlight on the brilliant creative minds behind some of the best Canadian television, film and digital media works of the past year, and we could not be more excited to gather in person — for the first time in four years — to celebrate these tremendous achievements.”

The 2023 Canadian Screen Awards will be presented in a series of seven intimate genre-based awards presentations, with esteemed members of the Canadian screen-based industry who brought us the best work from the last year, gathering in person at Meridian Hall in Toronto from Tuesday, April 11 through to Friday, April 14 (the Children’s & Animation Awards presented by Shaw Rocket Fund will be held April 12 at noon ET), all culminating with The Canadian Screen Awards with Samantha Bee, broadcasting on Sunday, April 16 at 8 PM (9 AT, 9:30 NT) on CBC and CBC Gem.

Animation and related category nominees below; find the full list of nominees at academy.ca/nominees.

FILM

Best Animated Short

Arctic Song – Germaine Arnattaujuq, Neil Christopher, Louise Flaherty, Alicia Smith, David Christensen, Nadia Mike
The Flying Sailor – Wendy Tilby, Amanda Forbis, David Christensen
Impossible Figures and Other Stories I – Marta Pajek, Piotr Szczepanowicz, Grzegorz Wacławek, Maral Mohammadian
The Shadow of My Life – Hajar Moradi
Triangle of Darkness – Marie-Noëlle Robidas-Moreau, Nicolas Dufour-Laperrière

TELEVISION

Best Animated Program or Series

Big Blue – Frank Falcone, Gyimah Gariba, Rachel Reade Marcus – Guru Studio/CBC
Denis and Me: Santa Who – Michelle Melanson, Diana Moore, Ken Cuperus, Denis Kopotun – Headspinner Prod./WildBrain
The Snoopy Show – Anne Loi, Josh Scherba, Stephanie Betts, Paige Braddock, Craig Schulz, Mark Evestaff, Kimberly Small – WildBrain/Apple TV+
Summer Memories – Adam Yaniv, Paul B. Cummings, Anthony Leo, Jason Surridge, Irene Weibel, Andrew Rosen, Ashley Ramsay, Oded Turgeman – A&N Productions/Aircraft Pictures/Yeti Farm Creative/WilldBrain
Total DramaRama – Tom McGillis, George Elliott, Brian Irving, Jennifer Pertsch, Terry McGurrin – Fresh TV/Corus Ent.

Best Preschool Program or Series

The Fabulous Show with Fay and Fluffy – Rennata Lopez, Georgina Lopez – Lopii Prod./WildBrain
Happy House of Frightenstein – Michelle Melanson, Ken Cuperus, Sandy Jobin-Bevans, Mitchell Markowitz – Headspinner Prod./WildBrain
PAW Patrol – Jennifer Dodge, Ronnen Harary, Keith Chapman, Ursula Ziegler-Sullivan, Laura Clunie, Toni Stevens, Jonah Stroh, Dan Mokriy, Tracey Dodokin, Jason McKenzie, Damian Temporale – Spin Master Ent./ TVO
Pikwik Pack – Frank Falcone, Rachel Reade Marcus, Kirsten Newlands – Guru Studio/Corus Ent.
Proud to Be Me! Anti-Racism Special – Lisa Wisniewski, Emily Houghton, Julie Patterson-Porter, Julia Okoth – CBC Kids

Best Direction, Animation

Big Blue – Riccardo Durante
Happy House of Frightenstein – Darren Cranford
PAW Patrol – Charles E. Bastien
Pinecone & Pony – First Generation Films/Apple TV+ – Wayne-Michael Lee
Total DramaRama – Keith Oliver & George Elliott

Best Writing, Animation

16 Hudson “Spice Box” – Big Bad Boo Studios/TVO – John May & Suzanne Bolch
Pinecone & Pony “The Pwettiest Pony / Try This Club On For Size” – Stephanie Kaliner & Lakna Edirisinghe
The Snoopy Show “Snoopy Swap” – Scott Montgomery
Summer Memories “Truth or Dare” – Sara Peters
Team Zenko Go “Pet Project / Mission Improbable” – Mainframe Studios/Netflix – J. Green & Sean Jara

Best Writing, Preschool

Agent Binky: Pets of the Universe “The Paw and Claw Spa” – Redknot/Corus Ent. – Carolyn Hay
Dino Ranch “Light Touch Tango”- Boat Rocker, Industrial Brothers, Jam Filled/CBC – Richard Young
The Fabulous Show with Fay and Fluffy “I Love Being Different” – Victoria Gallant
The Fabulous Show with Fay and Fluffy “I Love My Family” – Tyra Sweet
Happy House of Frightenstein “Heirloom Doom” – Ken Cuperus & Sandy Jobin-Bevans

Best Sound, Animation

PAW Patrol – Richard Spence-Thomas, Tim Muirhead, Mitch Connors, Luke Dante, Kyle Peters, Ryan Ongaro, Patton Rodrigues
The Snoopy Show – Todd Araki, Andrew Downton, Jason Fredrickson, Adam McGhie
Super Wish – Ryan Araki, Evan Turner, Neil Parfitt, Andrew McDonnell, Richard Spence-Thomas
Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go – Ryan Araki, John Baktis, Andrew McDonnell, Simon Berry
Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go: Race for the Sodor Cup – Ryan Araki, John Baktis, Andrew McDonnell, Simon Berry

Best Visual Effects

Detention Adventure – Joe Kicak, Sebastian Harder
History by the Numbers – Jonathon Corbiere, Flavio de Paula, Julia Nadeau, Steve Murphy, Suzanna Brusikiewicz, Tyler Sammy
The Legacy Awards – Alex Nadon
Odd Squad Mobile Unit – Matthew J.R. Bishop, Nial McFadyen, Susan Sullivan, Cody McCaig, Stephen Curran, James Wallace, Jeff Robinson, Belma Abdicevic, Tom Perry, Steve Lowry
Super Wish – Andy Powell, Raymond Pang

Best Original Music, Animation

Let’s Go Luna! – Ari Posner, Amin Bhatia & Kris Kuzdak
Pinecone & Pony – Caleb Chan & Brian Chan
The Snoopy Show – Jeff Morrow
Super Wish – Neil Parfitt
Team Zenko Go – Brian Chan & Caleb Chan

Best Performance, Animation

Agent Binky: Pets of the Universe – Julius Cho
Agent Binky: Pets of the Universe – Melody Johnson
The Snoopy Show – Hattie Kragten
Summer Memories – Tricia Black
Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go – Glee Dango

DIGITAL MEDIA

Best Web Program or Series, Fiction

Avocado Toast – Border2Border Ent.
Mary & Flo on the Go! – Shaftesbury (Animated)
Revenge of the Black Friend – RBBF
Tokens – A Token Entertainment Co.
Topline – Shaftesbury

Best Immersive Experience, Non-Fiction

The Choice – Infinite Frame Media
Lou – UNTLD (Animated)
Partita for 8 Voices – Laterna Films

Best Immersive Experience, Fiction

Brainstream – NFB
The Orchid and the Bee – NFB
Unceded Territories – ZeMind Studios

Best Video Game

I Was a Teenage Exocolonist – Northway Games
JETT: The Far Shore – Superbrothers A/V
Nobody Saves the World – Drinkbox Studios
Ooblets – Laundray Bear Games, Glumberland
Tunic – ISOCMETRICORP Games

Miyu Harmonizes with Grammy Winner Cécile McLorin Salvant & Animator Lia Bartels for ‘Ogresse’

Animation Magazine

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February 22, 2023

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Miyu Harmonizes with Grammy Winner Cécile McLorin Salvant & Animator Lia Bartels for ‘Ogresse’

An artistic new animated drama is in the works at French studio Miyu Productions in Ogresse, described as a “wry and irreverent fairytale” as well as a “murder ballad set to a jazz tempo,” inspired by a narrative piece performed by three-time Grammy winner Cécile McLorin Salvant.

The film’s story follows an outcast ogress who is shunned for her physical difference, pursued through the forest by a young hunter determined to claim her heart in love — or combat.

Acclaimed American jazz singer McLorin Salvant, who was awarded a Macarthur Genius Grant in 2020, will co-direct the feature project with Belgian animator Lia Bertels (Tiny Big, Nuit Chérie, And Yet We’re Not Superheroes).

“Ogresse is a love story inspired by my own experiences. It explores self-love and beauty ideals with a brave, complex, sometimes cruel and always endearing heroine. It will be an eclectic, dense, rich and genderless film that will poke fun at racist traditions in animation,” McLorin Salvant told Variety.

Bertels added, “As soon as I heard the live recording, I knew we had to bring the Ogress to life. I’m excited to make my feature debut with a project that explores themes of ecology, prejudice, gender and love from a fresh point of view while trying to break the conventions of the films that shaped us.”

A “sketch” preview of the project set to excerpts from a live recording of McLorin Salvant’s piece was shared in 2020.

[Sources: Variety, SFJAZZ]

Aardman Builds ‘Home’ Short for Save the Children

Mercedes Milligan

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February 22, 2023

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Aardman Builds ‘Home’ Short for Save the Children

To mark the one-year anniversary of the war in Ukraine, Academy Award-winning animation studio Aardman and international children’s charity Save the Children have released a short film to highlight the experience of refugee children around the world.

Inspired by real-life experiences of children that Save the Children works with, Home tells a story about how child refugees feel and what it’s like to be separated from friends, family and school in a new and unfamiliar setting. It also celebrates the possibilities for children to welcome new refugee friends and learn about different cultures. Created by director Peter Peake, Home will be screened in primary schools across the U.K. alongside its general release.

Although prompted by the outbreak of war in Ukraine, the four-minute animation aims to support the many millions of children who have been forced to leave their homes because of violence in countries including Ukraine, Afghanistan, Yemen and Syria.

The film reflects the stories of many real refugee children, such as the 11-year-old dubbed “Siraj,” who left Syria for Italy and shared, “When we arrived, I was sad, I was leaving all my friends, my family and my cousins. The language here is different.”

Another Syrian refugee, “Noura,” 12, explained, “We are refugees, but we are proud. We haven’t ended up here because we wanted to, but because we had to. If you have a refugee near you, I think you should try to welcome them.”

The short follows a small orange circle who arrives at a new school in an entirely purple world, inhabited solely by triangle characters. The orange circle immediately feels out of place, struggling with the language barrier and strange new food. But, through a blossoming friendship with a fellow pupil, they begin to feel welcome and accepted. As that happens, little bursts of orange start to appear in the purple surroundings, elevating the landscape to a richer, warmer and more diverse environment. The film then shows different characters of all shapes and hues that bring their own unique colors to the previously monochrome surroundings, transforming it into a thriving and vibrant world full of energy and color.

“Animation is an amazing medium for expressing ideas that would otherwise be difficult to communicate. At Aardman we believed that we had the expertise to help tell these stories in a way that would be sensitive, accessible, and relatable for children all around the world,” said Peter Lord, Co-Founder & Creative Director of Aardman. “It was also vital that the film we created would share the right messages, address a genuine need, and help as many children as possible. We approached Save the Children to help us with these aspects, and to keep us on the right track and we were absolutely delighted with the collaboration.”

Like many of Aardman’s most beloved animated brands, from Shaun the Sheep to Morph, the story of Home is told without using dialog, which means its message is accessible to children and adults of all ages, everywhere.

“Our film was created as a specific response to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, but it aims to help all children displaced from their homes due to war, famine and persecution. Working with Save the Children, we learnt what difficulties children face when trying to settle in a new country,” said director Peake (Oscar-nominated short Humdrum, Creature Comforts: Life in Lockdown). “Ultimately, we hope the film encourages children everywhere to empathize with some of their peers who might be going through that experience and to know the impact they can have by making someone feel welcome”

Alison Griffin, Head of Conflict & Humanitarian Campaigns from Save the Children, added, “We were absolutely thrilled to partner with Aardman in making this film. Many refugee children who’ve found a new, safer home, still carry the physical and emotional scars of war, or face daily setbacks simply because of who they are or where they’ve come from. That’s why it’s so important for refugee children to get the welcome — and the childhood — they deserve. We hope this beautiful short film will inspire people to reach out to child refugees, welcome them, and help them feel somewhere like ‘home’ again.”

Persistent, violent conflict is putting children’s lives at risk all over the world. According to Save the Children, a child has been made a refugee by the war in Ukraine almost every second since it began. To contribute to Save the Children’ Emergency Fund to support their work responding to disasters around the world, visit their U.K. website or U.S. website.

Learn more about Home, watch the short and see a behind the scenes featurette here.

Corus Rebrands Teletoon as Cartoon Network, Brings Boomerang to Canada

Mercedes Milligan

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February 22, 2023

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Corus Rebrands Teletoon as Cartoon Network, Brings Boomerang to Canada

Following the recent launch of its multiplatform kids’ streamer TELETOON+ in Canada, Corus Entertainment announced the rebranding of two of its linear kids’ television channels as it continues to evolve its offering of best-in-class kids content.

Beginning March 27, TELETOON will take on the mantle of Cartoon Network across linear TV, STACKTV and TELETOON+ in the country. Corus also introduces a new kids television channel in Canada by relaunching the current Cartoon Network channel as Boomerang. Debuting in the Canadian market for the first time, the worldwide Boomerang brand is built on fan-favorite retro content, classic animation series and foundational kids’ programming.

TELETOON Becomes Cartoon Network

After more than 25 years, TELETOON is revamped as Cartoon Network, ready to deliver flagship shows like Total DramaRama and classic TELETOON programming. Fans can expect exciting new series produced by Cartoon Network Studios, Warner Bros. Animation and Corus’ own Nelvana Studios — plus premieres of hit originals such as Teen Titans Go!

“Staying true to our loyal fans across generations has been our top priority as we reimagine the future of our kids’ networks,” said Jennifer Abrams, SVP Programming and Multiplatform, Corus Entertainment. “By partnering with Warner Bros. Discovery Inc. and strengthening our portfolio of brands across linear platforms, STACKTV and TELETOON+, we will usher Cartoon Network into a new stage of hilarious comedy and edge-of-your-seat action — all while keeping the TELETOON legacy alive in the digital space.”

Corus asserts that Cartoon Network’s ethos will support the company’s core values of “inclusivity, acceptance and, most importantly, kindness.”

Introducing Boomerang Network

The current Cartoon Network channel will rebrand as Boomerang with a fresh on-air look that will perfectly present funny, timeless and uplifting entertainment for kids and their families to enjoy.

“The combination of Cartoon Network and Boomerang delivers the best in fun and exciting animated series mixed with a robust video on demand offering for young kids and tweens alike,” said Drew Robinson, VP of Content Distribution, Corus Entertainment. “We’re excited for subscribers to join us on our adventure as Corus continues to expand our streaming and pay TV footprint with TELETOON+ and STACKTV, building upon our dynamic portfolio of industry-leading kids channels for the whole family.”

Corus Kids’ Channel Programming Highlights:

Tune in to Cartoon Network on linear and STACKTV to enjoy familiar favorites like Total DramaRama, The Amazing World of Gumball and DC Super Hero Girls. Plus, great new content including megahit Animaniacs Season 3, the highly anticipated Gremlins: Secrets of the Mogwai and My Adventures with Superman. Additionally, viewers can watch all new episodes of Teen Titans Go!, Craig of the Creek and We Baby Bears.

On air, catch Boomerang’s hit shows including The Tom & Jerry Show, The Powerpuff Girls, Jellystone, Total Drama Island, and more.

Viewers can stream the latest laugh-out-loud series on TELETOON+ like Teen Titans Go!, Looney Tunes Cartoons, Scooby-Doo! and Guess Who?, Batwheels and Bugs Bunny Builders — all available to subscribers via Amazon Prime Video Channels, Bell Fibe TV App and set-top-box or Virgin Plus for $5.99CAD per month, following a 30-day free trial.

cartoonnetwork.ca | boomerang-tv.ca | teletoonplus.ca

5th CEE Animation Workshop Selects 12 Projects

Mercedes Milligan

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February 21, 2023

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5th CEE Animation Workshop Selects 12 Projects

The CEE Animation Workshop is gearing up for its fifth edition with the announcement of this year’s selected participants and their animated projects in development. The call for applications was once again open to international applicants, while maintaining a focus on the CEE region and low-production capacity countries. Out of 30 applications from 23 countries, the organizers have selected 12 projects, with 32 participants from 16 countries who will attend the 2023 event.

The selected projects include five short films, three series and four feature films. Among the participating professionals, the Workshop welcomes 11 female producers, five male producers, two female directors, three male directors, four female scriptwriters, five female directors-scriptwriters and two male directors-scriptwriters. These participants will be honing a diverse series of topics in their animated projects during a year-long training program led by acclaimed industry professionals.

“Once again we are excited to start the new year of the CEE Animation Workshop. The selection was tough as the number and quality of submissions is rising every year,” says Saša Bach, the Managing Director. “We are looking forward to start the first module on-site in Ljubljana and in addition to diverse and strong projects and their creative teams. We are also very happy to welcome new producer group leaders: Tonje Skar Reiersen and Corinne Destombes.”

The fifth CEE Animation Workshop builds on strong foundations from the last four years of successful training courses, while introducing some fresh features. Established producers Tonje Skar Reiersen (Mikrofilm, Norway) and Corinne Destombes (Folimage, France) are joining the team as main group leaders, while script consultants and the well-known CEE Animation Workshop collaborators, Phil Parker (United Kingdom) and Rita Domonyi (Hungary) are returning.

The workshop will consist of four modules, balancing online and on-site programs, with two on-site weeks in 2023. The first module will take place in Ljubljana, Slovenia, between February 27 and March 4.

Through expert lectures, moderated discussions, group work and individual consultations, the 2023 participants will gain valuable feedback and a chance to expand their knowledge of the animation industry. In addition to following the complete Workshop program, two additional career-oriented participants will also receive personalized mentoring on their career and company strategy development.

The CEE Animation Workshop program is tailored to the needs of animation creatives, and will see the selected projects from their early stages to the final developed production package, ready to access the market. The program is organized with the support of the E.U.’s Creative Europe – MEDIA Program.

Selected Projects

FEATURE FILMS

Adam
Director & scriptwriter: Ron Segal
Producers: Alexander Weimer, Esther Firedrich
MovieBrats Pictures (Germany)

Ah Cheung
Directors: Ka Ue So, Wong Chong
Scriptwriter: Ka Ue So
Producer: Catherine Chan
Alpha Omega (Hong Kong)

Laura
Scriptwriter: Roza Misztela
Producer: Anita Kwiatkowska-Naqvi
LeLe Productions (Poland)

Ouzkorini
Director & scriptwriter: Michelle Kersevany
Producer: Marine Vaillant
Special Touch Studios (France)

TELEVISION SERIES

Rosie & Sapphire
Director & scriptwriter: Anna Katalyn Lovrity
Producer: Balint Gelley
CUB Animation (Hungary)

The Girl With Occupied Eyes
Director & scriptwriter: Ana Catarina Alves
Producer: Hemi Fortes, Filipe Araujo
Blablabla Media (Portugal)

Zabavia
Director: Serhiy Mohylnyy
Scriptwriter: Halyana Tkachuk
Producer: Desniana Rozhkova
UkrKino (Ukraine)

SHORT FILM

Down in the Dumps
Director: Vera Van Wolferen
Scriptwriter: Britt Snel
Producer: Chris Stenger
Family Affair Films (Netherlands)

Genius Dream
Director: Martin Buril
Producer: Aneta Furdecka
Nutprodukce (Czech Republic)

Granny Summer
Director: Paula Skelin
Producer: Draško Ivezić
Adriatic Animation (Croatia)

Princess Rose Chafer
Director: Anka Kočevar
Scriptwriter: Slavica Remškar
Producer: Tina Smrekar
Finta Studio (Slovenia)

The Apartment
Director & scriptwriter: Ivo Breidis
Producer: Agne Skane
Atomart (Latvia)

CAREER-ORIENTED PARTICIPANTS

Agata Jelenkova, producer
Novinski (Slovakia)

Przemyslav Pilarczyk, producer
WJT / Likaon (Poland)

Full details and imagery for all projects is available at ceeanimation.eu.

Autodesk Launches Moxion Rooms for Secure Cloud-Based Review

Mercedes Milligan

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February 21, 2023

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Autodesk Launches Moxion Rooms for Secure Cloud-Based Review

Autodesk today introduced Moxion Rooms, a forensically secure review solution enabling creative teams in production and post-production to share livestreams and review uploaded assets in a single cloud-based environment. The solution was developed for the specifications and production needs of remote teams working on the Amazon Originals series The Lord of the Rings: Rings of Power, and is now being released commercially.

“Moxion Rooms accommodates collaborative review in a secure environment with video and voice chat, and elegantly hosts and stores everything anyone working on a production needs to access, from budgets to scripts and schedules,” said Ron Ames, producer/founder, The Modern Film Consortium. “This was essential for a project like The Rings of Power with so many moving parts. Moxion Rooms quickly replaced what was taking us a combination of four different review solutions and reliance on OBS, which is not ideal on a high stakes production.”

“We acquired Moxion to accelerate our move to production in the cloud, and we’re excited to introduce Moxion Rooms to support next-generation creative needs,” said Diana Colella, senior vice president, Autodesk Media & Entertainment. “Teams can now collaborate on footage and assets virtually as it is captured, and facilitate fully synced live review sessions via a browser. This ultimately enables faster content delivery and helps keep up with industry demand.”

The cloud-based Moxion platform supports secure digital dailies and camera to cloud (Immediates) workflows. With Moxion Rooms people can collaborate and review camera footage on set and remotely with the efficiency and immediacy required to make creative decisions during principal photography in 4K high dynamic range (HDR) quality, with studio-grade security. Moxion Rooms includes powerful review tools, video and voice chat, and industry-standard support for Dolby Vision, HDR10 and SDR.

Key features:

Collaborate on uploaded assets (up to 200) in real time (up to 25 participants) or access on your own time.
Livestream editorial reviews, with new NDI support; create and manage streaming sessions, share activity statuses, control playback resolution/audio settings and apply specific color profiles from your desktop.
Review media as you capture it by sharing directly from set to multiple team members, camera crews and locations to maintain continuity with live-streaming camera capabilities.
Dynamic collaboration capabilities: Watch frames synchronously in a unified review session or allow each reviewer to watch the streaming media at their own pace without affecting other reviewers’ playback.
Keep media secure with Moxion’s digital rights management protection; forensically watermark or apply digital rights to the media being reviewed in your session.

Accolades for Autodesk Moxion include an Engineering Excellence Award from the Hollywood Professional Association (HPA), a Workflow Systems Medal from the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE), and a Lumiere Award from the Advanced Imaging Society. In addition to Rings of Power, Moxion has supported complex productions such as The Midnight Sky, The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel and The Matrix Resurrections.

Find the FAQ and documentation for Moxion Rooms at autodesk.com.

‘Only You’ WBD Access Animated Shorts Anthology Will Stream on HBO Max

Mercedes Milligan

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February 21, 2023

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‘Only You’ WBD Access Animated Shorts Anthology Will Stream on HBO Max

Warner Bros. Discovery announced today that the HBO Max x Warner Bros. Discovery Access Animated Shorts Program will showcase the final short films collection exclusively on HBO Max on March 23. These eight short films were created by 12 underrepresented artists, selected last year for a year-long program during which they were given a production budget, training, and tools to complete their original five-to-seven-minute adult animated short.

“It has been a pleasure to continue our pipeline efforts by championing underrepresented voices and giving access and exposure for these next generation of primetime animation storytellers,” said Karen Horne, Senior Vice President, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion, North America, Warner Bros. Discovery. “We are excited that this program culminates with the opportunity to showcase the artists’ unique visual artistry with HBO Max consumers.”

Participants were paired with executive mentors from across WBD brands including HBO Max, Adult Swim, Warner Animation Group and Rooster Teeth, and all films were overseen by established producer Amanda Miller (Christopher at Sea). In addition, creators participated in masterclasses from award-winning writers, producers and artists including Justin Halpern & Patrick Schumacker (Harley Quinn), Erica Rivinoja (Clone High), Dan Dominguez (Seis Manos, VP Powerhouse Animation), Matthew A. Cherry (Hair Love), Noëlle Raffaele (DC Super Hero Girls), Ron Kurniawan (Puss in Boots) and Teddy Newton (The Incredibles).

“One of the best parts about working in animation for 20 years is the feeling when you find a truly original artistic voice, someone who can tell a story with a visual style that is wholly unique,” said Suzanna Makkos, EVP, Original Programming, HBO Max & Adult Swim. “I’m thrilled to say that the inaugural HBO Max X WBD Access Animated Shorts Program has not only yielded an impressive slate of content, but has set a high bar for how we discover and develop new voices in primetime animation.”

The animated short films will debut as episodes in a Max original series titled: Only You: An Animated Shorts Collection on March 23.

Synopsis: What’s a story Only You can tell? Inspired by this prompt, a diverse group of artists bring their personal tales to life across a spectacular range of animated styles. From a high-stakes Wall Ball tournament in Coney Island, to a redemptive odyssey through the Pacific Northwest, to a psychological showdown with a health-conscious vampire, these stories cross multiple genres, including horror, comedy, and fantasy. A visually exhilarating and emotion-fueled journey, this collection of eight short films welcomes us into the hearts, minds, and communities of the next generation of storytellers.

Episodes & Creators:

Episode 1 — Burning Rubber by Chris Fequiere (he/him)
Duane Ruiz is out of college and out of options. Down on his luck, he has to choose between responsibilities at work and home or competing in the high-stakes Burning Rubber Wallball (a.k.a.NYC handball) tournament.

Episode 2 — Welcome to 8th Street by Yoo Lee (she/her) & Xin Li (she/her)
When newcomers attempt to settle into their New Jersey neighborhood on 8th Street, some odd encounters make them question their decision to move. However, that changes when a wild turkey shows up on their block.

Episode 3 — Kent Hammer by Dominick Green (he/him)
Kent Hammer, a confident and highly successful businessman with a loving family, slowly loses touch with reality through a psychotic episode and descends into madness. Kent befriends his briefcase as it talks to and guides him through his journey, but other office supplies may not be as trustworthy or helpful.

Episode 4 — Yellowbird by Tsvetelina Zdraveva (she/her) & Jerred North (he/him)
While living in New York, a young immigrant receives tragic news from overseas, and must choose between going home or staying in the U.S. to maintain her legal status.

Episode 5 — Monstr by Tank Standing Buffalo (he/him) & Xstine Cook (she/her)
How do you go on living when everything is taken from you in the blink of an eye? A true story of a young artist who confronts his inner demons while apprenticing with a northwest totem carver after the death of his beloved.

Episode 6 — Aroon by Miriam Presas (she/her)
A deluded hero has trapped himself within a storybook legend where he always saves the day. After a harrowing experience, the hero starts to question his morality, his purpose, and what makes his life worth living.

Episode 7 — Kimotiwin: The Act of Stealing by Keara Lightning (she/her) & Caeleigh Lightning (she/they)
To steal back a flower that is special to her lover, Tiska embarks on a dangerous journey across an overgrown landscape, fighting demons in a post-apocalyptic city.

Episode 8 — Leech by Aalaa Mohamed (she/her)
A vampire obsessed with the quality of the blood they consume poses as a health coach to ensure they can control their clients’ lifestyles. This is the story of Minna, one victim who attempts to break free.

In Memoriam: Manga-ka Leiji Matsumoto, Animator Will Ruzicka, Toei CEO Osamu Tezuka & Actor Jansen Panettiere

Animation Magazine

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February 21, 2023

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In Memoriam: Manga-ka Leiji Matsumoto, Animator Will Ruzicka, Toei CEO Osamu Tezuka & Actor Jansen Panettiere

Legendary manga creator Leiji Matsumoto (né Akira Matsumoto), creator of thrilling sci-fi worlds adapted to anime, including Captain Harlock, Starzingers, Space Battleship Yamato, Star Blazers 2199 and Galaxy Express 999, died February 13 of acute heart failure at age 85. His studio, Leijisha, confirmed his passing in a statement, in which head of studio and Matsumoto’s daughter, Makiko Matsumoto, expressed that the storyteller “set out on a journey to the sea of stars. I think he lived a happy life, thinking about continuing to draw stories as a manga artist.”

Born in 1938 in Kuume, Fukuoka Prefecture, Matsumoto published his debut manga Honey Bee’s Adventure aged just 15, although he wouldn’t get his big break until the 1970s tale of struggling student Otoko Oidon. He married pioneering manga creator Miyako Maki in 1961, and the duo collaborated on multiple projects.

Matsumoto’s work often shared anti-war themes and featured emotionally vulnerable characters, particularly boys and men, which were not often represented at the time — let alone with such skill and sensitivity. His work found fans all over the world, including multiple Grammy-winning French house/dance act Daft Punk. Matsumoto collaborated with the duo on multiple music videos (including “One More Time”) and the cult film Interstella 5555.

In recognition of his artistic influence, Matsumoto was honored with Japan’s Order of the Rising Sun, the French government’s Knight of the Order of Arts and Letters, and saw several bronze statues of his Galaxy 999 characters erected in the port city of Tsuruga in 1999.

Animation director and storyboard artist William Ruzicka (Invincible, Kung Fu Panda: The Dragon Knight, Blood of Zeus) died suddenly on February 1 aged just 45 years old. Colleague Shaunt Nigoghossian, exec producer on Kung Fu Panda: The Dragon Knight, shared on LinkedIn that Ruzicka had been experiencing cold and flu-like symptoms for a week before collapsing on his way to seek medical care. A cause of death was not announced.

“William was one of the sweetest, kindest, most hardworking people I’ve ever known. We’ve worked on seven shows together spanning 12 years time. He was a generous and thoughtful leader to his teams, a good friend and a good man,” Nigoghossian wrote, adding that Ruzicka’s family was understandably “in shock”. A GoFundMe to help cover costs of a planned March memorial service has been set up by the family, with excess funds to go to charity in his name.

Born October 14, 1977, Ruzicka started his animation career doing storyboard revision for Hasbro cartoons such as Transformers Prime, Transformers Rescue Bots and G.I. Joe Renegades. His recent work includes the critically acclaimed Robert Kirkman adaptation Invincible for Prime Video, for which Ruzicka directed and storyboarded the epic Season 1 finale. Season 2 is due to premiere this year.

Ruzicka also applied his artistic skills to Crunchyroll’s western anime High Guardian Spice and Mexican-American co-pro Onyx Equinox, Paramount+ adult comedy Star Trek: Lower Decks, Nickelodeon’s Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and The Legend of Korra, as well as several DC projects, including the Justice League Action series and DC Universe Movies Wonder Woman: Bloodlines, Justice League vs. Teen Titans and multiple Batman Unlimited installments.

Toei Company Ltd. President & CEO Osamu Tezuka died on February 14 at age 62, the company confirmed. Managing Director & Chairman Noriyuki Tada will take on Tezuka’s responsibilities as president in addition to his other duties.

Born in March of 1960, Tezuka (no relation to the Astro Boy creator of the same name, who died in 1989) joined Toei in 1983, working his way up and being appointed a board member in June 2012. In June 2016, he was named managing director of the company, which oversees the iconic Toei Animation studio (One Piece, Sailor Moon, Dragon Ball, Slam Dunk, Saint Seiya), and was appointed as President & CEO in June 2020.

The 15th film in Eiichiro Oda’s hit franchise, ‘One Piece Film Red’ was a huge success for Toei last year, currently ranking as the fourth highest-grossing Japanese film of all time.

Prior to his death, Tezuka had also served as Chairman of the Executive Committee of the Tokyo International Film Festival for its 34th and 35th editions (2021 & 2022). TIFF shared in a statement, “The entire festival staff is deeply grateful for his understanding and great support toward holding a full-scale physical editions despite the continued challenges and uncertainties brought about by COVID-19.”

Jansen Panettiere, an actor and artist who voiced roles for animated hits including Robots, Ice Age: The Meltdown and Blue’s Clues, has died due to unconfirmed causes. The younger brother of Heroes and Scream franchise star Hayden Panettiere was just 28 years old.

Born September 25, 1994 in Palisades, New York, Jansen Panettiere began his career quite young, guest starring on Even Stevens, Hope & Faith and Third Watch as well as Canadian animated series Jacob Two-Two. He had a recurring role on the original Blue’s Clues series son Nick Jr. as Periwinkle the cat, and later played Truman X on The X’s.

Panattiere’s v.o. performances also included Young Stripes in Stripes, Younger Rodney in Robots, Shovelmouth Boy in Ice Age: The Meltdown and Robby Hobbie in multiple Holly Hobbie specials.

Blue's Clues — Panettiere voiced the neighbor kitten Periwinkle in ‘Blue’s Clues’

Jansen and Hayden Panettiere co-starred in the 2004 Disney Channel movie Tiger Cruise. In more recent years, the younger sib co-starred in MTV’s How High 2, appeared in The Babysitters, The Walking Dead and Nickelodeon’s The Last Day of Summer, for which he was nominated for a Young Artist Award. He played in the award-winning 2022 indie Love and Love Not and is credited for several upcoming projects.

[Sources: Anime News Network, BBC, Cartoon Brew, Deadline, IMDb]

New Teaser: ‘Mashle: Magic and Muscle’ Bulks Up Crunchyroll Slate in April

Mercedes Milligan

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February 21, 2023

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New Teaser: ‘Mashle: Magic and Muscle’ Bulks Up Crunchyroll Slate in April

The world of witchcraft and wizardry is in for a high-protein counter spell when Mashle: Magic and Muscles smashes onto Crunchyroll in April. Based on the popular manga from writer-illustrator Hajime Komoto, published in Weekly Shonen Jump by Shueisha, the series will simulcast weekly episodes on the streamer, airing in over 200 countries and territories immediately after its Japan premiere.

The off-kilter magical fantasy has captivated fans globally with its absurdist visual gags amidst its backdrop within a world of magic that is flipped on its head by one boy whose dedication to beefing up flips his magical world on its head. The series is animated and produced by A-1 Pictures (Lycoris Recoil, 86 EIGHTY-SIX, Sword Art Online) and directed by Tomonari Tanaka (Engage Kiss).

Synopsis: This is a world of magic. This is a world in which magic is casually used by everyone. In a deep, dark forest in this world of magic, there is a boy who is single-mindedly working out … His name is Mash Burnedead, and he has a secret: He can’t use magic.

All Mash wanted was to live a quiet life with his family, but people suddenly start trying to kill him one day and he somehow finds himself enrolled in Magic School. There, he sets his sights on becoming a “Divine Visionary,” the elite of the elite. Will his ripped muscles work against the best and brightest of the wizarding world?

The curtain rises on this off-kilter magical fantasy in which the power of being jacked crushes any spell!

Japanese voice cast & characters:

Chiaki Kobayashi (Yuichi Katagiri in Tomodachi Game) as Mash Burnedead, a rare young man who cannot use magic. Although he crushes all types of magic with his well-trained muscles, he lacks common sense and tends to do as he pleases. He loves cream puffs.
Reiji Kawashima (Fushi in To Your Eternity) as Finn Ames, Mash’s dorm roommate. He is the straight man (tsukkomi) of their antics and Mash’s first friend.
Kaito Ishikawa (Tenya Iida in My Hero Academia) as Lance Crown, a good-looking young man who ranked first among the transfer exam students. He has considerable magical power, and is top of the class in academic performance.
Takuya Eguchi (Loid Forger in SPY x FAMILY) as Dot Barrett, an impulsive and noisy young man. He’s the unpopular type with a strong hatred for good-looking guys.
Reina Ueda (Kisa Soma in 2019’s Fruits Basket) as Lemon Irvine, who has had a crush on Mash since he helped her during the transfer exams. She’s imaginative, to say the least.
Hiroaki Hirata (Vinsmoke Sanji in One Piece) as Narrator.

Additional staff credits include series composition and screenplay by Yosuke Kuroda (My Hero Academia; Bastard!! Heavy Metal, Dark Fantasy); character design by Hisashi Higashijima; action direction by Takeshi Matsuda (Naruto Shippuden: The Will of Fire key animation) and Hiroaki Goda (Evangelion: 1.0 You Are (Not) Alone key animation); art direction by Yusa Ito (Sword Art Online the Movie -Progressive- Aria of a Starless Night) and music composed by Masaru Yokoyama (Your Lie in April, 2019’s Fruits Basket).

Click to watch the previously released official trailer and character trailer.

‘Lamya’s Poem’ Starring Mena Massoud Debuts on VOD

Mercedes Milligan

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February 21, 2023

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‘Lamya’s Poem’ Starring Mena Massoud Debuts on VOD

Freestyle Digital Media, the digital film distribution division of Byron Allen’s Allen Media Group, today presents the VOD launch of the family-oriented Syrian refugee tale Lamya’s Poem. The animated feature premiered at last year’s prestigious Annecy International Animation Film Festival, and went on to play at festivals in Vancouver, Zurich and Prague.

Synopsis: When 12-year-old Syrian refugee Lamya flees the violence of her country, she is given a book of poetry by the famous 13th century poet, Rumi. As the perils of Lamya’s journey mount, the book becomes a magical gateway where she meets Rumi when he was a boy and also a refugee fleeing the violence of his time. In a shared dreamworld, they battle the monsters that follow them from their real-world situations, and Lamya must help young Rumi find his calling and write the poem that 800 years later will save her life.

The cast features Millie Davis as Lamya (Ms. O in Odd Squad, Summer in Wonder, Gemma Hendrix in Orphan Black), Faran Tahir as Baha Walad (Raza in Iron Man, Captain Robau in Star Trek) and Mena Massoud as Rumi (Aladdin in Disney’s live-action Aladdin, Tarek Kassar in Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan).

Written and directed by Alex Kronemer, Lamya’s Poem was produced by Kronemer, Glenn James Brown and Sam Kadi. The animation is produce by award-winning Ontario studio PIP Animation (The Cat in the Hat, Wandering Wenda, Caillou, Cyber Chase, The Umbrella Academy).

Freestyle acquired both DVD and VOD rights to the film, which will be available on DVD and to rent/own on North American digital HD internet, cable and satellite platforms. The deal was negotiated with UTA Independent.

Visit the film’s official website here to learn more about Lamya’s Poem and find links to rent or buy on VOD.

‘Suzume’ Sets NorAm Premiere at NYICFF in March

Mercedes Milligan

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February 21, 2023

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‘Suzume’ Sets NorAm Premiere at NYICFF in March

The New York International Children’s Film Festival (NYICFF) announced today that it will host the highly anticipated North American Premiere of Makoto Shinkai’s latest feature film Suzume. The coming-of-age fantasy will screen March 5 at the SVA Theatre as the festival’s Centerpiece selection.

The announcement comes just ahead of the film’s International Premiere on February 23 at the Berlinale, where it will be the first Japanese anime feature film to screen in the festival’s competition in two decades. (Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away screened in 2002 and took home the Golden Bear).

“We’re beyond thrilled to spotlight visionary director Makoto Shinkai’s artistic mastery,” said NYICFF Director of Programming Maria-Christina Villaseñor. “His films are compellingly emotive, graphically rich and capture the zeitgeist of today’s youth as they navigate our increasingly tumultuous world. NYICFF is thrilled to screen Suzume for the first time for a North American audience and continue the long tradition of honoring his work at the Festival.”

Synopsis:

On the other side of the door, was time in its entirety—

As the skies turn red and the earth trembles, Japan stands on the brink of disaster. But one determined teenager, Suzume, sets out on a mission to save her country. Able to see the supernatural forces that others can’t, it’s up to her to close the mysterious doors spreading chaos across the land. A perilous journey awaits as the fate of the country rests on her shoulders.

The film has already surpassed expectations in Japan, with over 10 million admissions in Japan since November and 13.4 billion yen (approx. 103 million USD) in 12 weeks.

Suzume’s international theatrical release is set for April, distributed by Crunchyroll in partnership with Sony Pictures Entertainment, Wild Bunch International, Wild Bunch Germany and Eurozoom (excluding Asia). The film will open in North American cinemas on April 14.

NYICFF has a history of supporting Shinkai’s work and other anime titles over the past 25 years, having premiered the maestro’s global hit Your Name. (2016), Children Who Chase Lost Voices from Deep Below (2012) and 5 Centimeters Per Second (2008) at previous editions. The festival has also debuted works by auteurs such as Miyazaki, Mamoru Hosoda and more.

This year’s program features exciting new anime titles including the adaptation of Tsujimura Mizuki’s popular YA novel Lonely Castle in the Mirror, Atsuko Ishizuka’s Goodbye Don Glees! and the East Coast premiere of Masaki Tachibana’s Blue Thermal.

NYICFF 2023 will take place March 3 through 19. Tickets and more information available through nyicff.org.

Read more about Suzume in the April ’23 issue of Animation Magazine, available soon.

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‘Suzume’ Sets NorAm Premiere at NYICFF in March

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Migration and Trauma

A View to the Human Abyss

Environment & Society, with a Pinch of Humor

Oscar-Nominated Films at ITFS

Social Anxieties and Loneliness

Gender & Identity

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DIGITAL MEDIA

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Selected Projects

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