We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience, serve personalised ads or content, and analyse our traffic. By clicking "Accept All", you consent to our use of cookies.
Customise Consent Preferences
We use cookies to help you navigate efficiently and perform certain functions. You will find detailed information about all cookies under each consent category below.
The cookies that are categorised as "Necessary" are stored on your browser as they are essential for enabling the basic functionalities of the site. ...
Always Active
Necessary cookies are required to enable the basic features of this site, such as providing secure log-in or adjusting your consent preferences. These cookies do not store any personally identifiable data.
No cookies to display.
Functional cookies help perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collecting feedback, and other third-party features.
No cookies to display.
Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics such as the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc.
No cookies to display.
Performance cookies are used to understand and analyse the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors.
No cookies to display.
Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with customised advertisements based on the pages you visited previously and to analyse the effectiveness of the ad campaigns.
BBC Studios and The Walt Disney Company today announced the first-ever CG animated feature film for Bluey, the smash-hit Australian preschool series about a little dog with big personality and her lovable, furry family..
Written and directed by series creator Joe Brumm and produced by Ludo Studio (Australia) in collaboration with BBC Studios, the film will premiere in cinemas worldwide in 2027, followed by streaming on Disney+, as well as airing on ABC iview and ABC Kids in Australia post-theatrical release.
“I really enjoyed the experience of working with a longer format on The Sign in Series 3, so going even further with a feature film feels like a natural extension of that,” said Brumm. “I’ve always thought Bluey deserved a theatrical movie. I want this to be an experiential event for the whole family to enjoy together. I’m excited to continue to partner with Cecilia Persson, Tom Fussell and the team at BBC Studios, and Dana Walden, Alan Bergman and Disney to bring this new Bluey story to the big screen.”
Featuring voice talent from series, including Melanie Zanetti and David McCormack as well as music by Bluey composer Joff Bush, the movie will be produced by award-winning animation producer Amber Naismith (Happy Feet, The LEGO Movie, The LEGO Batman Movie) with series helmer Richard Jeffery (Seasons 1-3) returning to co-direct. Brumm will serve as executive producer, alongside Charlie Aspinwall and Daley Pearson from Ludo Studio, and Justine Flynn for BBC Studios.
“Over the past eight years, we’ve had the privilege of working alongside an extraordinary team of more than fifty artists and producers whose talent, dedication, and creativity have shaped Bluey into the beloved series it is today,” commented Pearson and Aspinwall. “Their work has paved the way for this incredible opportunity to expand Bluey’s world onto the big screen. We’re excited to continue showing Queensland as a home for world-class talent and to share a new beautiful Bluey story by Joe Brumm with families around the world.”
The news was broken in a special update from Good Morning America.
BIG NEWS, “BLUEY” FANS — a feature film about the beloved animated television series is coming to the big screen!
BBC Studios and Walt Disney Studios are teaming up to bring fans the first animated “Bluey” film and is expected to open in movie theaters in 2027!… pic.twitter.com/NRxqt2HpRl
The Berlin International Film Festival today announced the initial raft of films selected for its young audience-targeted Generation program (Kplus for children, 14plus for teens).This batch of eight feature films and seven shorts, including 10 world premieres, will be joined by the full program lineups to be announced in early January.
The 75th Berlin International Film Festival (Berlinale) will be held February 13-23, 2025.
The early selection announcement includes three animated projects, including the International Premiere of Michel Gondry’s paper cut-out feature Maya, Give Me a Title (France).
Described as the Oscar-winning Eternal Sunshine of the Spotless Mind director’s “stop-motion love letter to his daughter,” the brightly colored film is inspired by their long distance relationship, which Gondry kept close by creating animated shorts inspired by Maya’s ideas. The film features the voices of Maya Gondry and César Award-winning actor Pierre Niney.
Space Cadet
Attendees of the festival will additionally be treated to the World Premiere of the dialog-free Canadian feature film Space Cadet, directed by Eric San (a.k.a. Kid Koala), written by Mylène Chollet and executive produced by Ginette Petit, Nathalie Bissonnette and Michel Pradier. The pic is produced by Outsiders Films.
The 3D CG kids’ film follows brilliant young cosmonaut Celeste as she sets out on her first solo space mission — while her robot guardian faces the question of what to do without his lifelong charge to care for. Berlinale describes the piece as “A tomorrow-days lullaby about finding your place in the universe.”
The Bus
Also making its world premiere is the animated short film Autokar(The Bus). The story is set in the 1990s, and follows as eight-year-old Agata sets out on a solo journey by bus from her home in Poland to Belgium. While writing a letter to her friend, the anxious girl drops her pencil, and gets lost in a fantastical alternate universe between the bus seats on her search for the missing implement.
The pastel-illustrated 2D short is a Belgian/French co-production written and directed by Sylwia Szkiladz, who previously participated in the Generation Kplus competition with her 2016 short The Teeny-Weeny Fox. Autokar is produced by OZÙ Productions and Vivi Film.
See the Berlinale 2025 program (so far) at berlnale.de.
Disney+ has revealed that the new Inside Out animated spinoff series, Dream Productions, has totted up 5.6 million views globally for its first episode in fine days of viewing, the streamer’s most-watched animated premiere since Marvel’s What If…? in 2021. The four-parter debuted on December 11.
The powerful performance is fitting, following the debut of Inside Out 2 as the streamer’s top film premiere of 2024. The sequel set numerous box office records and is the highest-grossing animated film of all time.
Dream Productions out performedX-Men ’97, which dropped in March and was reported by Disney at the time as the biggest post-What If…? toon debut with 4M views in five days. The new Pixar show delivered +40% over those numbers, especially impressive for an animated miniseries.
Synopsis:Riley is growing up and when her memories need some extra processing, Joy and the rest of the Core Emotions send them to Dream Productions. Acclaimed director Paula Persimmon (Paula Pell) faces a nightmare of her own: Trying to create the next hit dream after being paired up with Xeni (Richard Ayoade), a smug daydream director looking to step up into the big leagues of night dreams.
Disney+ defines “views” as total stream time divided by runtime.
If the seasonal stress of the holidays has you feeling like you’re down to the last two brain cells rattling around your skull, Warner Bros. Discovery has the perfect commiseratory comedy for you!
Marking the 30th anniversary of the iconic Jim Carrey & Jeff Daniels movie, Dumb and Dumber: The Animated Series makes its digital debut.
Synopsis: For Harry and Lloyd, every day is a no-brainer! Based on the hit 1994 comedy starring Jim Carrey and Jeff Daniels, this animated series from the Hanna-Barbera cartoon craftsmen follows the ongoing misadventures of Lloyd Christmas and Harry Dunne as they fall into funny and funnier mishaps with their pet purple beaver, Kitty.
Available now for purchase digitally from Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, YouTube, Fandango at Home and more.
Disney’s Moana 2 continues to ride a wave of box-office success, leading international and domestic charts over this weekend. The animated sequel, directed by David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand and Dana Ledoux Miller, continued at No. 1 on the domestic charts in its third week of release, taking in $26.6 million (-48%) on the ripples of it’s record-setting Thanksgiving performance.
Moana 2 joined forces with musical spectacular Wicked to boost the pre-holiday weekend global box office to $92M, a 21% increase for the same frame last year.
Overseas, Moana 2 is now the fourth highest-grossing movie of the year with $717M worldwide, nosing its prow ahead of Dune: Part Two ($714M). The Disney pic still has a a ways to go to catch up to sister studio Pixar’s record-smashing Inside Out 2 ($1.7 billion). Combined, the two releases have earned Disney the No. 1 animation studio spot for 2024 with $2.4B. Moana 2 is also the fourth-biggest Disney animation release of all time, globally.
The film is expected to sail past the billion-dollar mark. Top five international markets so far are France ($40.5M), U.K. ($33.5M), Germany ($24.8M), Mexico ($23.5M) and Brazil ($21.1M).
The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim [c/o Warner Bros. Animation / Sola Ent. / New Line Cinema]Warner Bros. gamble of an anime spin on Tolkien (departing from Peter Jackson’s live-action blockbuster legacy), The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim opened at No. 5, pillaging $4.6M from 2,602 theaters in North America. The slice of Middle-earth apocrypha also opened in 72 markets internationally, adding $4M to reach a $5.7M overseas total ($10.3M worldwide). The project reportedly cost $30M to produce.
Elsewhere on the domestic animation charts, the limited re-release of the AI-remastered Daft Punk anime Intertsella 5555: The 5tory of the 5ecret 5tar 5ystemcame in at No. 9 with $2.328M, released by Trafalgar across 641 theaters. Indie darling Flow by Gints Zilbalodis, released by Sideshow and Janus Films, held onto the top 20 in its fourth week with $374K ($1.3M cume), even climbing back from 17th place last week to 13th in this frame. DreamWorks’ The Wild Robot also had a bounce-back, hitting No. 22 this week after falling to No. 25 and adding $80K to its pot for $142.956M stateside ($323.3M worldwide).
Organizers of the Sundance Film Festival have announced the prestigious competition’s short film selection for 2025, which includes a dedicated Animated Short Film program presenting eight titles. Sundance runs January 23 – February 2, 2025 in person in Park City and Salt Lake City, Utah, as well as online.
The animated shorts selection is:
Flower Show by Elli Vuorinen (Finland)
Inkwo for When the Starving Return by Amanda Strong (Canada)
Luz Diabla by Gervasio Canda, Paula Boffo & Patricio Plaza (Argentina/Canada)
Caries by Aline Höchli (Switzerland)
Field Recording by Quinne Larsen (U.S.)
Como si la tierra se las hubiera tragado by Natalia León (France)
Paradise Man (ii) by Jordan Michael Blake (U.S.)
Hurikán by Jan Saska (Czechia)
Animation lovers can also find gems in other sections, including:
Megan Griffiths & Mindle Lind’s 2D View from the Floor (U.S.) and Joe Hunting’s hybrid The Reality of Hope (U.K./Sweden) in Documentary Short Films
Mansi Maheshwari’s Bunnyhood (U.K.) and Jesse Moynihan’s Jesus 2 (U.S.) in Midnight Short Films
Glenn Kaino’s Hoops, Hopes & Dreams(U.S.) and Stephen Irwin’s A Round of Applause for Death (U.K.) in Short Film Program 1
May Kindred-Boothby’s The Eating of an Orange (U.K.) in Short Film Program 2
Disney Branded Television hits the intergalactic pitch with the acquisition of Messi and the Giants, a sci-fi animated series (22-minute episodes) inspired by worldwide football sensation Lionel Messi , from Sony Music Vision and Sony Pictures Television – Kids (SPT – Kids). The animated epic unfolds as a young boy is transported from his home in Argentina into an alternate universe, and will premiere on Disney Channel, followed by Disney Channel On Demand and globally on Disney+.
“I always dreamed of being involved in a project that would share the values of sports, the very same values that have been so important to my career, with younger generations. Nothing truly is impossible with teamwork, perseverance, discipline, and hard work,” said Lionel Messi. “I look forward to sharing this series with kids around the world, and I hope I will inspire them and motivate them to achieve their own dreams. Ever since I was a kid, I always loved animated series, and I look forward to watching this series with my own kids.”
Synopsis: Leo is an ordinary 12-year-old boy with an extraordinary talent — and a huge problem. The once-thriving world of Iko is in tatters at the mercy of the Giants who rule the 10 realms. Only one hero can save them … and he’s the size of a flea. Young Leo is plucked from another world to lead the fight against the tyrannical villains who have kept the 10 realms under their control.
Messi and the Giants is not simply a series about the football skills of a boy named Leo. It brings out the rest of what he’ll need to achieve his destiny: persevering in the face of adversity, learning how to build a team, finding strength when you think you have none, and exploring what it takes to become a hero.
“Football — or soccer as we call it in the United States — is the world’s most beloved sport, uniting and captivating millions of fans of all ages,” said Ayo Davis, President, Disney Branded Television. “We are proud to work with Lionel Messi and Sony Pictures Television to bring Messi and the Giants to our passionate, global kids’ audience. We know that its themes of family, friendship, and teamwork will resonate with not only football enthusiasts but everyone everywhere who loves a great story.”
Joe D’Ambrosia, EVP & General Manager, SPT – Kids, said, “Football is one of those rare sports that brings people together and shines a light on the true meaning of teamwork. It’s been a privilege to team with Leo and our colleagues at Sony Music on this first-time collaboration. We’re thrilled that Disney is giving a global platform to this fun take on a classic tale and look forward to launching a global consumer products and branded partnerships program alongside the show’s debut.”
“There is an incredible team all working together on this project, with Leo’s magic as the inspiration behind it all,” added Afo Verde, Chairman & CEO, Sony Music Latin Iberia. “We are thrilled that Disney has now joined our roster to help bring this imaginative series to audiences and inspire fans all around the world.”
Messi, the recent fútbol world champion with the Argentine National Team, is a global icon and inspiration to millions around the world. To date, he is the only athlete in the world to win eight Ballon d’Or Awards and six Golden Boots. Always the smallest on the team, Messi relied on his wits and incomparable skills to take on the “giants” and win. Messi created a sensation when he joined MLS team Inter Miami in July of this year, with his debut match becoming the most-watched fútbol game in U.S. television history. Off the pitch, he is recognized for his sportsmanship and passion for the sport, which will be featured heavily throughout the series.
Guy Toubes (Odd Squad, Transformers: Robots in Disguise) will serve as executive producer, overseeing all writing for the series. Atlantis Animation, a Canary Island-based company (Tara Duncan, Miraculous Ladybug Season 5), and director Dan Creteur will serve as the show’s animation studio. The series was developed by Toubes and Creteur under the creative direction of Sony Music Vision and Sony Pictures Television – Kids, in partnership with Messi, and will be available in English, Spanish and many other languages.
Ray Nutt, CEO of leading specialty theatrical distributor Fathom Events, announced that the company is on track for record-breaking gross revenues of more than $145 million in 2024, representing a 45% increase in sales from last year’s gross revenues of $100 million. Nutt also revealed that the company will be rebranded as Fathom Entertainment starting in January of 2025.
Fathom’s performance in 2024 has been strong across all business segments, with the company having expanded its core and primarily events-based and limited engagement distribution business in recent years to include more special engagements with longer release windows.
“With the significant decline in volume of major motion picture theatrical releases post-COVID and the proliferation of streaming options at-home, present day audiences are constantly on the lookout for something fresh and different and uniquely relevant at the movie theatres. Consumer enthusiasm and embrace of specialty content in theatres has translated into Fathom’s highest-grossing year ever,” said Nutt.
“Everyone at Fathom is proud of the company’s banner year and grateful to our partners, theater affiliates, and fans who have supported the shift and expansion of Fathom’s specialty theatrical content endeavors. Fathom Entertainment better reflects our mission to bring exceptional entertainment to exhibitor partners and moviegoers worldwide. Fathom remains dedicated to pushing boundaries and providing audiences with unforgettable experiences and will look to prudently build on our success with new content opportunities in the future.”
The Fathom Entertainment rebranding and strategy shift marks a new chapter in the company’s 20-year history, highlighting its dedication to offering innovative distribution paths.
With successful special engagements (content with seven or more theatrical playdates and anticipated box office revenue of at least $5 million), such as the 15th-anniversary re-release of Coraline ($34M+ in domestic box office revenue), the entire fourth season of The Chosen episodic series ($32M+ in box office revenue) and The Blind ($17M+ in box office revenue), Fathom continues to demonstrate its unique ability to bring diverse, passion-driven content to audiences.
Fathom will continue to offer live and recorded content and anticipates a healthy combination of special engagements and event cinema in 2025.
Fathom’s distribution strategy shifted after the pandemic with The Blind, the biopic of Phil Robertson of Duck Dynasty fame. Fathom initially secured a seven-day distribution plan. However, after those showtimes quickly sold out, Fathom worked with exhibitors to have the film play for an additional six weeks.
Thanks in part to the strategic evolution and embrace of alternative formats and distribution windows, Fathom has achieved unprecedented box office growth over the last three years. While the company remains committed to finding diversified content that resonates with underserved communities and expanding its theatrical footprint, Fathom’s most significant attribute for success comes from its ability to create bespoke distribution plans.
Co-owned by AMC Theatres, Cinemark Theatres and Regal Cinemas, Fathom collaborates with all leading cinema partners worldwide, ensuring a wide array of distribution and exhibition opportunities that fit the needs of the local marketplaces.
Nickelodeon animation fans can display their love for a holiday classic with the new A Rugrats Chanukah poster from deluxe collectibles co. Mondo. Plus, a new figure variant depicting the Klasky-Csupo babies’ favorite kaiju: Reptar!
Celebrating the beloved Rugrats special, which premiered in 1996, the poster features artwork by Toronto-based artist Sam Elkana, known for his distinctive illustrative takes on pop culture themes as well as for art directing the award-winning indie video game Venba. The 18″ x 24″ giclée print on archival paper is limited to 165 copies, printed by Static Medium.
The posters will go on sale Tuesday, December 17 at noon CT exclusively on MondoShop.com, priced at $40 and expected to ship in February 2025. (Worldwide shipping.)
The same day, a fan-favorite comes roaring back! Inspired by the response to its DCon Exclusive Variant, Mondo is unleashing a new Exclusive Purple Variant of the CultureFly Reptar viny designer figure, sculped and painted by James Groman. This limited run of 50 figs, which come in packaging designed by Jordan Christianson, is priced at $299 and ships worldwide.
As part of Mondo Holiday Deals, the online shop is offering $10 off a purchase of $100, $35 off a purchase of $250 and $50 a purchase of $300. These new Rugrats drops count towards total purchase value, with the discount applied in cart at MondoShop.com.
The Animation Showcase welcomes ashore Lupus Films’ award-winning, family-friendly feature Kensuke’s Kingdom for a special limited release this holiday season. The platform offers the best in international animation for free to members of the animation and motion picture industries.
The 85-minute film is directed by Neil Boyle & Kirk Hendry and tells the story of Michael, who is taken by his family on a round-the-world sailing trip. After being shipwrecked on a remote island, Michael and his dog Stella meet a mysterious Japanese veteran, Kensuke, and they unite to safeguard his hidden paradise from danger.
The film’s cast includes BAFTA Award winner and Academy Award nominee Sally Hawkins, BAFTA Award winner and Academy Award winner Cillian Murphy and Academy Award nominee Ken Watanabe, alongside Screen International’s Star of Tomorrow Raffey Cassidy and newcomer Aaron MacGregor.
Kensuke’s Kingdom is an adaptation of the eponymous children’s novel by Michael Morpurgo, with a script by renowned screenwriter and the U.K.’s Children’s Laureate, Frank Cottrell-Boyce. Featuring an award-winning score by composer Stuart Hancock, it premiered at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival in 2023, screening at the BFI London Film Festival and other international competitions and earning a number of accolades, including three British Animation Awards and the Grand Prize at the New York International Children’s Film Festival.
Kensuke’s Kingdom is presented by BFI, Film Fund Luxembourg and Align and is a Lupus Films production in association with Kensuke’s Kingdom, Jisgsaw Films, Melusine Productions, Le Pacte and Bumpybox, with the support of Ffilm Cymru and the Welsh Government via Creative Wales.
Kensuke’s Kingdom [c/o Lupus Films]
The Animation Showcase streaming platform is a film industry-only hub curating the best animated shorts & feature films from filmmakers around the world and allows the animation and motion pictures community to discover or rewatch feature films for a limited time. Since its launch, The Animation Showcase has become a must-watch destination during the awards season, featuring critically acclaimed contenders as well as exclusive bonuses, making-ofs and behind-the-scenes.
The platform previously hosted the three-time Oscar-nominated animated documentary Flee, A24’s Oscar-nominated stop-motion feature Marcel the Shell with Shoes On and a couple of shorts in worldwide exclusivity, including WAR IS OVER! Inspired by the Music of John and Yoko and The Windshield Wiper, both winners of the Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film.
To continue to ensure the best screening experience of animated gems, The Animation Showcase Streaming Platform is accessible via the internet on any browser and now on its new home cinema native apps for Apple TV devices, Roku and Fire Stick (Amazon).
Animation & motion picture industry members and students can easily join the platform by
visiting the sign-up portal and providing valid proof of work.
Netflix today unveiled the official teaser trailer and new images from its highly anticipated animated series Asterix & Obelix: The Big Fight, based on the classic comics created by René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo. The CG animated series from France’s TAT Productions (The Jungle Bunch, Terra Willy, Pil) is set to enter the streaming ring in Spring 2025.
Synopsis: Rome is desperate to conquer the last independent village in Gaul and the home of Asterix and Obelix. The secret to the Gauls’ battle superiority is a magic potion, but when the potion master loses his memory, the villagers are left to their own devices against the might of Rome.
The new series is created by Alain Chabat (Asterix & Obelix: Mission Cleopatra). Chabat also serves as series co-director alongside veteran animator Fabrice Joubert, director of the Oscar-nominated animated short French Roast, and adaptation/dialog writer with Benoît Oullion and Piano.
Asterix & Obelix: The Big Fight is produced by Alain Goldman in collaboration with publisher Les Éditions Albert René, with animation by TAT.
Every now and then, we offer interviews with up-and-coming animation professionals to find out more about how they landed in animation, what they love about their jobs, and their future goals. We recently had the chance to catch up with the multi-talented artist Nadine Promes García who is currently working on Disney TV animation’s much-anticipated reboot of Phineas and Ferb (which premieres in 2025) and has also worked on shows such as Futurama, Disenchantment and King of the Hill. Here is what we learned:
Animag: Can you tell us a bit about how you got interested in a career in animation?
Nadine Promes García: I grew up in Maracabio, Venezuela, and I loved watching dubbed versions of animated shows and movies. As I grew older and society was forcing the misguided idea that ‘cartoons are for kids,’ I decided to ignore that misconception and isolated myself further into my blissful corner of vibrant colors and funny voices. Then, I discovered the wonder that is Japanese animation. Inuyasha stole my heart and demonstrated that animated stories could be more. Avatar: The last Airbender solidified that realization. However, it wasn’t until I discovered Gobelins: L’école de l’image on YouTube that I learned that people studied animation. Three years after graduating high school and moving to Paris, I was finally brave enough to say; “I want to study animation.” That was the best decision I’ve ever made!
Illustration by Nadine Promes Garcia
When did you first know you wanted to get into animation?
Nadine: I truly believe that I was born to be in the animation industry – I just had to get rid of certain expectations I was raised with. So I believe the right answer would be; The universe knew before I did, but I’ve always wanted it.
Can you tell us how you got your foot in the door?
Nadine: My artistic career started in 2021, the year I got my Temporary Protected Status (TPS). The TPS is a special status that allows nationals of a country in crisis to reside and work in the United States lawfully. Prior to having the TPS ,nobody really wanted to hire me despite having my student work visa; which is a constant challenge for many international students. Regardless of any shortcoming life threw my way, I always kept practicing my craft, networking and applying. It was a month after receiving my physical work permit card in the mail that my doors opened and I got my first union job as a storyboard artist.
Storyboard by Nadine Promes Garcia
What was your first job in the industry?
Nadine: My first job was working on Matt Groening’s Netflix series, Disenchantment. The pre-production studio is called Rough Draft Studios and it’s located right on the Burbank/Glendale city border — this job pushed me to move to Burbank, CA, which is the local hotspot for animation.
What do you love about your current job?
Nadine: Currently, I work for Disney Television Animation on the upcoming new version of Phineas and Ferb. This show holds a very special place in my heart because it was my younger brother’s favorite show as a child and I would watch the Spanish version with him back in Maracaibo. The show feels like part of my family. Aside from the personal aspect, the team is amazing and Disney’s company culture is pretty fun to be a part of.
Art by Nadine Promise Garcia
What would you consider your biggest challenges?
Nadine: My biggest challenge are my immigration hurdles because without a work permit, I can’t work at all. I have to make sure I have extra money in my pocket to pay the high legal fees needed to hire a good immigration lawyer to handle that area of my life. After that, I believe my mental health can make it challenging sometimes. At this point in my life I know I belong where I am, but anxiety can be a nasty liar and can whisper the opposite in my ear. Thanks to the insurance that comes with the job, I make sure to take good care of my mind to continue doing what I love.
What is the best advice you ever received about finding work in the animation business?
Nadine: I’m not sure if anyone ever told me this, but I discovered that your network is key when finding work in this industry. Working hard and following directions are a given but networking and being proactive with your connections can be the difference between having employment or lack it. In fact, it is thanks to my connections that I was hired In two of the three studios I’ve worked for.
Who are your biggest influences?
In a weird way, I have been my biggest influence! My drive has always been fueled by the stories I want to tell someday. I’ve always been pretty stubborn which would get me into a lot of trouble as a child, but it also got me where I am today. The only way to influence my mind was through drawing characters that represented different points of views having ‘discussions’. Like puppet therapy but using my art. I realized I started depicting a future version of me that I aspired to become and as I grew, that version became exactly who I am today. All these characters are part of stories I will tell someday and maybe the lessons I learned in life can be passed on to others.
Al Otro Lado (On the Other Side), an animated short film directed by Nadine Promes Garcia
What would you say is the biggest misconception about being a storyboard artist?
First off, I’m pretty sure most people don’t know we exist. Second of all, if they do know, they most likely think it’s a very simple and quick job. There are some clients that will ask you to change the clothing of a character once you have already drawn everything. They don’t realize that notes such as that mean a lot more time and pencil mileage because you have to redraw the edit in every single panel.
These days, there’s a new misconception that artificial intelligence could potentially replace us. Despite that scary belief, storyboarding is not just technique and drawing knowledge, there’s a very crucial human aspect required for the craft of visual storytelling. You must be able to convey complex emotions through subtleties in acting, composition, lighting, etc. It’s a constant invention of how you can express certain ideas in the most creative way possible.
Thanks so much for your time. One last question before we let you go. What are your future plans?
My future plans are simply to keep doing what I do and continue to grow as an artist in this industry. I also want to publish my personal stories on the side and see where that leads me. It’s been a pretty exciting journey and I don’t doubt it will remain that way.
You can learn more about the artist at nadinepromes.com. (For the sake of complete transparency, Nadine has been kind enough to volunteer for Animation Magazine at various animation events in town — including Lightbox, SIGGRAPH and Comic-Con — for the past few years.)
Warner Bros. Pictures Animation has officially set the release of DC Studios’ animated Batman-verse movie Dynamic Duo, spotlighting the origins of two Robins: Dick Grayson (later known as Nightwing) and Jason Todd (Red Hood). The first joint project of the two refabbed studios will release to IMAX on June 30, 2028.
Produced in partnership with L.A.-based puppet animation outfit Swaybox Studios (its debut feature film) and Matt Reeves’ 6th & Idaho, the movie will be a mixed media actioner — “a mix of animation, puppetry, and CG,” as previously revealed by DC Studios head James Gunn. The story penned by Matthew Aldrich will show how young Grayson and Todd’s friendship becomes tested by their diverging visions of their respective futures.
Aldrich’s credits include the original story and screenplay for Pixar’s Coco, for which he won an Annie Award (shared with Alfred Molina) and was nominated for a Humanitas Prize, and the studio’s Toy Story spinoff Lightyear.
Dynamic Duo is being directed by Swaybox co-founder Arthur Mintz. Producers are Swaybox co-founder Theresa Andersson, and 6th & Idaho’s Reeves and Lynn Harris.
Clayface in ‘Harley Quinn’ [Max]
Warner and DC have also signaled that the standalone live-action Clayface feature is going ahead, assigning horror master Mike Flanagan to write the screenplay and setting a theatrical release for September 11, 2026.
The reported “horror-thriller-tragedy” will be produced by Reeves and Harris as well, and will precede an expected appearance by the crusty mutated villain in The Batman Part II (Oct. 6, 2026).
The DC Studios release slate also includes Gunn’s Superman (July 11, 2025), Craig Gillespie’s Supergirl: Woman of Tomorrow (June 26, 2026) and two untitled movies (May 29, 2026 and March 5, 2027).
Prepare to cozy up with your new favorite anime over the chilly months: Crunchyroll has unveiled the details of its Winter 2025 anime simulcast season, packed with new series and season premieres rolling out in the U.S. and Canada soon.
Dates listed below reflect new subtitled simulcast premieres only; dub date launches will be announced at a later date. For updates, check in at Crunchyroll News.
DECEMBER 31
Fate/strange Fake(A-1 Pictures)
In a Holy Grail War, Mages (Masters) and their Heroic Spirits (Servants) fight for the control of the Holy Grail — an omnipotent wish-granting device said to fulfill any desire. Years have passed since the end of the Fifth Holy Grail War in Japan. Now, signs portend the emergence of a new Holy Grail in the western American city of Snowfield.
JANUARY 1
Ameku M.D.: Doctor Detective(Project No.9)
Ten’ikai General Hospital’s Supervisory Department of Diagnostic Pathology handles cases other physicians deem too difficult to treat. It’s also where bizarre mysteries surface, from unexplained illnesses to strange murders even the police can’t solve. At the center of it all is Takao Ameku, a brilliant doctor determined to reveal the shocking truth behind these anomalies.
Dubs include: English
Grisaia Phantom Trigger(Bibury Animation Studio)
After the Heath Oslo incident exposed the U.S.-Japanese anti-terror organization CIRS, a new agency emerges to train elite operatives: SORD. Mihama Academy, once abandoned, is now part of a series of SORD training grounds for misfit girls to hone their deadly skills. Armed with live ammunition, they face perilous missions, sacrificing their safety for the country’s future.
Headhunted to Another World: From Salaryman to Big Four!(GEEKTOYS and CompTown)
In an alternate fantasy world, the Demon King reigns with a formidable army led by his Four Heavenly Kings. One happens to be Uchimura Denosuke, a normal salaryman unexpectedly plucked from his mundane life by the Demon King himself. But even in this new realm, Uchimura is bestowed no particular powers. Can he survive treacherous missions with only the knowledge of an office worker?
Dubs include: English
Possibly the Greatest Alchemist of All Time (Studio Comet)
Iruma Takumi finds himself caught up in a hero summoning, even though he’s not a hero. Summoned by mistake to Mildgard, a fantasy world of swords and magic, Takumi is given a chance to start over. Though he dreams of a peaceful life, the goddess Nolyn grants him “alchemy,” an ultra-powerful skill that allows him to create anything from holy swords to flying ships. His reluctant adventure begins! (Official Trailer)
Dubs include: English, Latin American Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese and German
JANUARY 2
Momentary Lily(GoHands)
Robotic invaders wiped out all life, but Renge fights to survive using her powers. With no memories, she roams the city until she meets five other young women, each with unique abilities. Together, they make the most of their lives, cooking delicious meals between battles with mechanical monstrosities. As they uncover the secrets of their powers and pasts, they find strength in their friendship.
JANUARY 3
I’m Getting Married to a Girl I Hate in My Class(Studio Gokumi and AXsiZ)
High school student Saito Hojo is set to inherit his grandfather’s major corporation. First, he must marry Akane Sakuramori, the girl he despises the most, and who hates him just as much. The two are determined to keep their unexpected marriage a secret from their classmates. But as they begin their newlywed life, the distance between them starts to close.
JANUARY 4
OKITSURA: Fell in Love with an Okinawan Girl, but I Just Wish I Know What She’s Saying(Millepensee)
When Teruaki Nakamura transfers to laid-back Okinawa, he falls for the lively Kyan-san—but her dialect is a complete mystery to him. With Higa-san translating, Teru’s misunderstanding-filled island life takes off … and subtle hints suggest Higa-san might want his heart too. On this serene island, love flows as freely as the ocean breeze!
JANUARY 5
ZENSHU(MAPPA)
After high school, Natsuko Hirose starts her career as an animator and quickly rises to director. Her first anime is a huge hit, earning her recognition as an up-and-coming genius director. But her next project isn’t going as well. It’s a romantic comedy, but she’s never been in love before! Struggling to grasp the concept, Natsuko can’t create the storyboard, bringing production to a standstill. (Official Trailer)
Dubs include: English, Latin American Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, French, German, Italian and Castilian Spanish
I Want to Escape from Princess Lessons(EMT Squared)
Leticia Dorman, daughter of a duke, is less than thrilled to be engaged to a crown prince. Betrothed since childhood and trained to be queen, she always hoped Prince Clarke would fall for someone else one day. So when he shows up at a ball with another woman, Lettie excitedly retreats to the countryside to start her new life — only for Clarke to appear, determined to win her heart.
JANUARY 6
Medaka Kuroiwa Is Impervious to My Charms (SynergySP)
For Mona Kawai, winning hearts and turning heads comes naturally. Everything changes when Medaka Kuroiwa, a new transfer student, arrives. He won’t even give Mona a second look, and it turns her life upside down! Mona tries everything she can to win Medaka over, even going to the extreme at times. Tune in to a new rom-com about a queen bee and an unfazed boy among the school’s halls. (Official Trailer)
Dubs include: English
Promise of Wizard(LIDENFILMS)
On a moonlit night, Akira Masaki finds herself in a magical world where wizards and humans coexist. Every year, they must face an enormous, deadly moon that attacks the planet. Their only hope lies with the Wizards of the Sage, appointed to fight the supernatural threat. But Akira soon discovers she wasn’t summoned by chance — she was chosen to lead them in battle.
I’m a Noble on the Brink of Ruin, So I Might as Well Try Mastering Magic(Studio DEEN and Marvy Jack)
While innocently enjoying himself after work, one man’s life changes forever. He wakes in the body of Liam Hamilton, the youngest son of a noble house on the brink of collapse. Amid the chaos, Liam realizes he finally has time to learn and practice magic. Once he begins, it takes his life for an even bigger turn. Can Liam master magic and save his noble family? The aristocratic fantasy begins!
After traveling to the past to save a young Tinasha, Oscar finds himself living in an alternate timeline. While visiting the kingdom of Tuldarr, he discovers Tinasha lying in a deep slumber beneath the castle. As he approaches, she awakens, and they meet for the first time once again.
Dubs include: German
Bogus Skill <<Fruitmaster>> ~About that time I became able to eat unlimited numbers of Skill Fruits (that kill you)~ (Asahi Production)
In a world where Skill Fruits grant powers, aspiring adventurer Light is stuck with the useless <<Fruitmaster>> skill. Eating another one results in death, so no do-overs. Meanwhile, his childhood friend Rena quickly rises to S Rank. But when Light accidentally eats a second Skill Fruit, he survives and discovers his true power: He can consume unlimited Skill Fruits and gain their abilities!
JANUARY 8
Honey Lemon Soda(J.C.STAFF)
After middle school, with its bullying and nicknames, Uka Ishimori is excited for a fresh start at Hachimitsu High School. Kai Miura, a cool and uninhibited boy, sits next to her in class. Uka remembers she met Kai in middle school and with a single word, he had convinced her to attend Hachimitsu. Though he’s popular, Kai supports Uka in her efforts to fit in with her new classmates.
Dubs include: English, French and German
Magic Maker: How to Make Magic in Another World (Studio DEEN)
On the night of his 30th birthday, one man’s dreams of wielding magic come true after he unexpectedly passes away. He wakes as Sion, a young child in another world. He and his elder sister, Marie, are the children of a lower-class noble family who govern their region. After receiving conflicting messages from their father, Sion and Marie set out on an adventure to uncover the magic.
Dubs include: English, Latin American Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, French and German
After the battle on Treasure Island, Senku and the gang return to the Kingdom of Science. With their sights set on the Moon, they must first voyage to the Americas in hopes of beginning to harvest the required materials. Through teamwork and science, they continue the fight to save humanity once and for all!
Dubs include: English, Latin American Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, French, German, Italian, Castilian Spanish, Russian and Arabic
Anyway, I’m Falling in Love with You. (Typhoon Graphics)
It’s the year 2020, and Mizuha is having the worst 17th birthday ever. Her parents forgot it’s her birthday, she still can’t seem to get close to the senior she likes, and all her school trips and tournaments are canceled thanks to a new disease going around. She’s convinced she’ll never have the kind of youth she’s always dreamt of … until her childhood friend, Mizuki, suddenly asks her out.
Dubs include: English
The Daily Life of a Middle-Aged Online Shopper in Another World (East Fish Studio)
Kenichi Hamada is just a regular, middle-aged man working as an illustrator in Japan. One day, he is transported to another world and wakes to find himself in the middle of a dangerous forest filled with ravenous monsters. He quickly discovers a massive online shopping site that can deliver him exactly what he needs. Join Kenichi on his search for relaxation in a new world!
AQUARION Myth of Emotions(SATELIGHT)
The Aquarion, a giant mechanized fighting suit, is humanity’s best weapon against interstellar threats. Human pilots trained and worked together to defeat Shadow Angels, invading Abductors, and kinetic energy monsters over thousands of years. Once again, humanity must turn to the Aquarion. With the fate of the Earth hanging in the balance, will the suit be enough to save mankind?
When a favored concubine becomes pregnant, Maomao is put to the test as her food taster. She must keep her wits sharp, not only to protect the concubine but also against rising dangers in the palace. A new concubine with powerful ties, an unsolved attempt at Jinshi’s life, and a foreign envoy with impossible demands hint at a grand conspiracy poised to engulf the empire. (Official Trailer)
Dubs include: English, Latin American Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, French and German
I May Be a Guild Receptionist, but I’ll Solo Any Boss to Clock Out on Time (CloverWorks)
Alina thought she had found the perfect job as a guild receptionist. It’s stable, safe, and has a super cute uniform. But this dream gig turns into an overtime nightmare whenever adventurers get stuck clearing a dungeon. Tired of the long nights, Alina starts taking down the bosses herself! She even earns the name Executioner for her impressive skills. Can she keep her identity a secret?
Dubs include: English and German
Welcome to Japan, Ms. Elf!(ZERO-G)
Ms. Elf is intrigued by Japanese culture?! Working adult Kitase Kazuhiro’s hobby is sleeping. Ever since he was a child, he’s had exciting adventures in the mysterious other world he dreams about. One day, while exploring ancient ruins with an elf girl he befriended, he is unfortunately burned by the breath of a magic dragon he encounters. When he awakens from his dream, an elf girl who shouldn’t be in his room is sleeping next to him…
Farmagia(Bridge)
In Felicidad, farmers known as the Farmagia raise monsters under the peaceful rule of the Magus Diluculum. After the Magus passes, a power struggle erupts among forces using monsters to seize control. In the town of Centvelt, Farmagia Ten and his friends band together against the despotic new ruler, Glaza. Ten, his friends and their home-grown monsters must stay strong to defend their freedom.
Dragon Ball DAIMA – ENGLISH DUB (Toei Animation) *Only on Crunchyroll*
Goku and company were living peaceful lives when they suddenly turned small due to a conspiracy! When they discover that the reason for this may lie in a world known as the “Demon Realm,” a mysterious young Majin named Glorio appears before them.
There’s a rumor going around about the Seven Wonders of Kamome Academy. Nene Yashiro and her classmate, Kou Minamoto, work with Hanako-san to expose a traitor among the ranks of the Seven Wonders. After breaking No. 2, the Misaki Stairs, and No. 5, the 4 O’clock Library, only five remain. Can they uncover the perpetrator before it’s too late? (Official Trailer)
Dubs include: English, Latin American Spanish and Brazilian Portuguese
The journey continues after an exhilarating performance that solidifies PROTOSTAR’s bond. Now, Akira, Banri, and Chihiro are determined to build on their momentum as they face new challenges in the competitive entertainment industry. As the boys work to refine their skills and grow as aspiring idols, they encounter rival groups who push them to their limits.
I Left My A-Rank Party to Help My Former Students Reach the Dungeon Depths! (Bandai Namco Pictures)
Not every party treats you like a hero — especially when you’re a lowly red mage like Yuke. So, after years of constant ridicule by his A-rank party members, he ditches them. Searching for a new party, he reunites with former students Marina, Silk and Rain, and joins their group. But on a quest to conquer the world’s greatest dungeon, they become entangled in chaos that threatens the world. (Official Trailer)
Rentaro Aijo was rejected 100 times in middle school. He visits a shrine and prays for better luck in high school. The God of Love appears and promises that he’ll soon meet 100 people he’s destined to date. But there’s a catch — once destiny introduces someone to him, the two must happily love each other. If they don’t, they’ll die. What will befall Rentaro and his 100 girlfriends in high school? (Official Teaser Trailer)
Dubs include: English and German
The Red Ranger Becomes an Adventurer in Another World (SATELIGHT)
Togo Asagaki was the Red Ranger in a heroic Ranger squad. During their final battle against an evil organization, he gave his life to guarantee their triumph. But fate had other plans, and he found himself reborn in an entirely different world. Embracing his new role as an adventurer, he transforms into Kizuna Red and continues his pursuit of justice, helping those in need. (Official Trailer)
A year has passed since Subaru’s victory at the Sanctuary. He savors a life of fulfillment while Emilia’s camp stands united for the royal selection—until a fateful letter arrives. Anastasia, a royal selection candidate, has invited Emilia to the Watergate City of Priestella. But as the party begins its journey, crisis stirs beneath the surface and Subaru meets a cruel fate once again. (Official Trailer)
Dubs include: English, Latin American Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, French and German
COMING SOON
Solo Leveling Season 2 -Arise from the Shadow- (A-1 Pictures)
Jinwoo has become a formidable necromancer with an army of loyal shadows at his command. But he must master these abilities while keeping them hidden from other hunters, all while racing against the clock to save his mother. As he faces humanity’s toughest foes, Jinwoo pushes his body and mind to the limit, and the full extent of his newfound power is revealed. (Official Trailer)
Dubs include: English, Latin American Spanish, Brazilian Portuguese, French, German, Italian and Castilian Spanish
The Blue Exorcist anime series continues with the upcoming -The Blue Night Saga-!
Dubs include: French and German
Even Given the Worthless “Appraiser” Class, I’m Actually the Strongest (Okuruto Noboru)
In a world where heroes are born, not made, Ein’s god-given gift is the weakest: the power to appraise things. Treated cruelly by his peers, Ein spends his days in self-abasement—until he meets Yuri, the spirit of the World Tree. Yuri and her protector, Ursula, bless Ein with the Spirit Eye, unlocking new strength. As his abilities grow, Ein embarks on a journey to uncover his true purpose.
In a blow to childhoods across generations, Warner Bros. Discovery has announced it will not be renewing its license agreement to debut new episodes of Sesame Street on HBO and Max — offering content buyers the opportunity to snag the long-running preschool powerhouse.
HBO and Max are retaining their license to stream library episodes of the show, produced by Sesame Workshop. This part of the agreement has been renewed through 2027, and Max is set to launch the current season (No. 55!) starting in January.
A Max spokesperson told The Hollywood Reporter: “It has been a wonderful, creative experience working with everyone at Sesame Street on the iconic children’s series and we are thrilled to be able to keep some of the library series on Max in the U.S. As we’ve launched Max though and based on consumer usage and feedback, we’ve had to prioritize our focus on stories for adults and families, and so new episodes from Sesame Street, at this time, are not as core to our strategy.”
Sesame Street‘s new episodes have premiered on HBO since 2016, before airing on their legacy broadcaster PBS. A five-year deal bringing the new episodes to HBO Max / Max was agreed in 2019. The show is available through Max’s Cartoonito preschool hub.
Sesame Workshop will reportedly be sprucing up the evergreen show, which premiered in 1969, in an effort to “reimagine” the classic for its 56th season next year (the first available to whichever outlet snags the newly available rights). Sesame Street‘s next step will drop the “magazine” format in favor of longer narrative segments accompanied by a new animated series, Tales from 123.
The latest “lost” story arc from perennial British sci-fi classic Doctor Who to be rescued with animation, 1960s tale The Savages, is coming to home video next spring. The BBC will release the four-part reproduction on Blu-ray and DVD in the U.K. on March 24.
First broadcast in four weekly parts from 28 May to 18 June 1966. In this early story, the Doctor (William Hartnell) and his travelling companions Steven (Peter Purves) and Dodo (Jackie Lane), arrive on an unnamed planet where they encounter two distinct people — the Elders and the Savages.
They soon discover the Elders are the evil ones, draining the primitive Savages for their life source to remain young and powerful forever. This story marks the final appearance of Purves as Steven.
The physical home release of this animated resurrection of the First Doctor will include three discs containing all four 25-minute animated episodes (in both color and black and white) as well as brand-new bonus features.
As in previous projects, Doctor Who archivists were faced with the obliteration of original master recordings, and the BBC Studios Home Entertainment producers and the team of animators worked from original audio recordings and soundtracks to bring the arc back to life.
“We have a wonderful team of creators who work together to bring these lost Doctor Who stories back to life through animation,” said executive producer Paul Hembury. “It’s always an exciting time when a story nears completion, and we prepare to share it with the fans, for whom it has been made.
Hembury previously exec produced the animated recreations of Doctor Who stories The Evil of the Daleks, The Faceless Ones, The Macra Terror and The Wheel in Space.
Triggerfish, Africa’s leading animation studio, has teamed up with UNESCO to launch a groundbreaking initiative to advance women in the African animation industry. Labeled “The Creator Labs”, this collaboration seeks to address gender disparities and foster inclusivity in the animation industry.
The African film and audiovisual industries are experiencing rapid growth, contributing an estimated USD$5 billion to the continent’s GDP and employing over 5 million people. However, women, particularly those of color, remain underrepresented in leadership roles within the animation sector. Recognizing the importance of addressing these challenges, Triggerfish — through their non-profit foundation — has joined forces with UNESCO to create a comprehensive capacity-building program tailored specifically for women in animation across Africa.
“UNESCO’s publication on the African film sector highlighted a major gap in education and training across the continent — and it disproportionately affects women. The new partnership with Triggerfish Foundation is an important part of responding to these existing needs,” said Ernesto Ottone R, UNESCO Assistant Director-General for Culture. “Through technical and vocational education in animation production, we’ll contribute to enhancing career opportunities in TV and filmmaking among women.”
Carina Lücke, Director of Triggerfish Foundation, commented, “Empowering African women in animation is not just a goal; it’s a necessity. Through this collaboration with UNESCO, we aim to advance gender equality in animation. By prioritizing leadership positions throughout the pipeline, we’re not only cultivating creativity and innovation but also dismantling obstacles for a more inclusive and diverse industry.”
The Creator Labs are open to talent from across Africa and will offer a Director Lab for aspiring directors and an Animation Art Lab for artists. Participants will have access to masterclass sessions led by award-winning industry professionals, small group mentorship sessions, and networking opportunities designed to empower talent in their growth into leadership roles within the animation sector.
Training materials developed through the labs will be made freely accessible online through the Triggerfish Academy, ensuring that aspiring African creatives everywhere can benefit from these valuable resources.
The Labs are being crafted with guidance from award-winning directors and art directors to ensure impactful and enriching sessions. Contributors include Ng’endo Mukii, Tshepo Moche and Caroline Vos (Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire, Disney+), Cinzia Angelini (Hit Pig!, Mila), Nadia Darries (Star Wars: Visions Vol. 2, Lucasfilm) and other pioneering African creators.
This partnership builds on Triggerfish’s 28 years of experience in the animation industry and UNESCO’s commitment to promoting gender equality and cultural diversity. Together, they aim to create a more inclusive and vibrant animation sector that reflects the diverse voices and stories of the African continent.
The Creator Labs are now open for applications, and remain open until January 5, 2025. Online masterclasses and mentoring sessions are scheduled to run from March 2025 through the end of May 2025. For more information and to apply, visit triggerfish.com/academy/creator-labs.
We are saddened by the recent passing of beloved artist and animation producer Daniel Ridgers who died suddenly on Dec. 2 at age 52. Born in the UK, he and his family moved to California in 1986. Ridgers was a senior producer on the animated Disney channel show Future-Worm! and had been a senior producer at Walt Disney Imagineering for the past few years.
Ridgers began his animation career in the mid 1990s, working as production manager at Hyperion Studios and Starz Entertainment on a wide variety of animated projects including Virtual Oz, The Monkey Prince, The Brave Little Toaster Goes to Mars, Stripperella, Free for All and The Oblongs He was also production coordinator on Family Guy and Stewie Griffin: The Untold Story. He became head of production at DUCK studio from 2006 to 2015.
At Disney, he worked as a producer on The Proud Family Shorties. He was also a producer on seven Wild About Safety: Timon and Pumbaa shorts and 101 Dalmatians: The Further Adventures of Thunderbolt, a short directed by Floyd Norman. Ridgers then went on to be a line producer on Ryan Quincy’s animated show Future-Worm!, which ran from 2016 to 2018. He was also associate producer on Disney’s Mickey Mouse (2017) series and line producer on Warner Bros.’ Scooby-Doo, Where Are You Now! He was animation post-production executive at Amazon from 2017 to 2019. In 2021, Ridgers became a full-time senior producer at Walt Disney Imagineering.
Daniel is survived by his wife and best friend of 36 years Monica, and their two sons Alex and Matthew. The family has established a Gofundme fundraiser to help cover the costs of a celebration of life and future expenses in the wake of his sudden passing.
It reads:
“Anyone who has ever known Dan can imagine the loss in all of our lives of this man, the embodiment of the silliest fun, unending kindness and gentleness to all and an intense passion in everything he did. My children and I have lost a son and brother, but Monica Ridgers has lost the love of her life and Alex and Matthew have lost their best and beloved father…In work Daniel moved from creating art to producing animation for major studios, award-winning advertising and bespoke projects. He coached baseball and soccer, the latter for years. But like everything Dan put his passions to, halfway was never good enough and anyone reading this will have his or her own memories of the ‘Eveready Bunny’ that was Daniel Ridgers.”
We send our heartfelt condolences to Daniel’s family and friends in the animation community during this difficult time. if you have memories of Daniel that you would like to share with us, please email edit@animationmagazine.net and we’ll add to this story.
L’Alliance New York announces the programs for the eighth edition of Animation First. Created in 2018, the event has grown into the largest animation festival in the United States. The 2025 festival will run from Tuesday, January 21 through Sunday, January 26, and will present seven feature-length films and five short film programs, with a special focus on Swiss animation.
This year’s festival is curated by Delphine Selles-Alvarez and Chloé Dheu. The curators explain, “The 2025 festival offers a bold mix of features, shorts, talks, and VR that range from family-friendly to experimental and off the charts. It’s playful, serious, engaging and at times radical, the festival will transport audiences to places wide and far.”
The festival will open Jan. 21 with the East Coast premiere of Michel Hazanavicius’s The Most Precious of Cargoes (La Plus Précieuse des Marchandises), based on the 2019 novel by Jean-Claude Grumberg, which follows a poor Polish couple whose rescue of a baby thrown from a train en route to Auschwitz changes their lives forever. Hazanavicius will participate in a Q&A following the film.
The centerpiece feature on Jan. 24, will be the U.S. premiere of Claude Barras’s Savages (Sauvages). This stop-motion ecological tale centers on a young girl named Kéria, her adopted baby orangutan, Oshi, and her cousin Selaï, who must fight back against the planned destruction of Borneo’s ancestral forest.
The closing night film on Jan. 26, will be the recently restored The Time Masters (Les Maîtres du temps), shown with the U.S. premiere of the short The Machine-Men (Les Hommes Machines), both by visionary science-fiction animator René Laloux (Fantastic Planet). The Time Masters is a visual foray into an existentialist space adventure, and, in a similar vein, The Machine-Men serves as the pilot for the cult hit Gandahar, whose restored version was screened at last year’s Animation First.
Additional feature screenings include the U.S. premiere of the restoration of René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo’s classic The Twelve Tasks of Asterix (Les Douze travaux d’Astérix), the beloved family film My Life as a Zucchini (Ma vie de Courgette) by Claude Barras, the N.Y. premiere of Bertrand Dezoteux’s Harmony (Harmonie), and the N.Y. premiere of Yuku and the Himalayan Flower (Yuku et la fleur de l’Himalaya), by directors Rémi Durin and Arnaud Demuynck.
Special to this year will be the U.S. premiere of the first episode of an animated French TV series, The Legends of Paris (L’Armée des Romantiques), by Amélie Harrault. The festival’s five short film programs include The Best of Annecy 2024, New Francophone Shorts 1 and 2, Caught in the Moving Sand: The Films of Gisèle and Nag Ansorge and Marina Rosset: The Enchanting Power of Animation. Both the Both Caught in Moving Sand and The Enchanting Power of Animation programs are part of this year’s focus on Swiss animation.
For the second year in a row, L’Alliance New York will present a limited-edition Animation First series poster. This year’s guest artist is Swiss animator and director Georges Schwizgebel — the poster will be revealed soon over social media! Like last year, Animation First will have a juried competition for its New Francophone Shorts program. The jury will be made up of industry professionals, including animators Bill Plympton and Noelle Melody and artist Karlotta Freier.
L’Alliance New York is bringing back the Animation Speak/Easy for a second year. The gathering will include guest artists who share an inspiring animated short, followed by an audience discussion. Also returning will be the Animation Jam, the 48-hour student exercise to complete an animation sequence, and free VR experiences in L’Alliance New York Library, including the U.S. premiere of Boris Labbé’s Ito’s Meikyū.
And, the program will present many filmmaker talks, which will include a first look at Momoko Seto’s Dandelion’s Odyssey (France & Belgium), and discussions with animators Boris Labbé, Kristof Serrand and Georges Schwizgebel, as well as a professional panel and numerous Q&As following festival films.
Family audiences can embark on an exciting adventure with an unlikely, furry hero in Panda Bear inAfrica, debuting on Digital on January 28, 2025. The film will be available to rent or purchase through all major digital entertainment platforms in the U.S. and Canada through Shout! Studios and Shout! Kids in collaboration with Cinema Management Group.
Based on a story by award-winning filmmakers Richard Claus (The Little Vampire, AINBO: Spirit of the Amazon) and Karsten Kiilerich (The Little Vampire, Ruby and Raggie), Panda Bear in Africa is directed and written by Claus and Kiilerich and co-written by Robert Spackling (Gnomeo & Juliet, The Queen’s Corgi).
Synopsis: A fun and adventurous Panda travels from China to Africa to rescue his best friend Dragon who has been kidnapped by the lions. On his journey, he discovers a completely unknown world and faces frightening hippos, suspicious hyenas, and wise gorillas. Relying on his wits and some newfound friends, he makes his way across Africa, before rescuing his friend Dragon and saving his new friends’ jungle home.
An international co-production among Cool Beans (Amsterdam), Katuni (Amsterdam), A. Film Production (Denmark), Comet Film (Germany) and Le Pacte (France), Panda Bear in Africa screened as part of the Official Selection in the 2024 Annecy International Animation Film Festival.
![Kensuke's Kingdom [c/o Lupus Films]](https://www.animationmagazine.net/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/Kensukes-Kingdom-still.jpg)
![Asterix & Obelix: The Big Fight [c/o Netflix]](https://www.animationmagazine.net/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/Asterix-and-Obelix_The-Big-Fight_Baston_Village_UHD_32bits.jpg)
![Asterix & Obelix: The Big Fight [c/o Netflix]](https://www.animationmagazine.net/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/Asterix-and-Obelix_The-Big-Fight_Caesar_Maman_UHD_32bits.jpg)
![Clayface in 'Harley Quinn' [Max]](https://www.animationmagazine.net/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/Clayface-in-Harley-Quinn.jpg)
![Kizazi Moto: Generation Fire [Disney+]](https://www.animationmagazine.net/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/Kizazi-Moto-Generation-Fire-5.jpg)
![Panda Bear in Africa [Shout! Studios/CMG]](https://www.animationmagazine.net/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/Panda-Bear-in-Africa-1.jpg)
![Panda Bear in Africa [Shout! Studios/CMG]](https://www.animationmagazine.net/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/Panda-Bear-in-Africa-still-2.jpg)
![Panda Bear in Africa [Shout! Studios/CMG]](https://www.animationmagazine.net/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/Panda-Bear-in-Africa-still-3.jpg)
