Exciting Acquisition in Animation

The captivating French indie animated feature Into the Wonderwoods (Angelo dans la forêt mystérieuse) is gearing up for its next chapter, as Shout! Studios has announced the acquisition of North American rights from Urban Sales. This mixed-media family film is helmed by directors Vincent Paronnaud (co-director of Persepolis) and Alexis Ducord (co-director of Zombillenium), based on an original graphic novel by Paronnaud, known as Winshluss.

Synopsis

Meet ten-year-old Angelo, who aspires to be an explorer and zoologist. During a family trip to visit his ailing grandmother, Angelo is accidentally left behind at a rest stop by his preoccupied parents. Determined to reunite with his family, he bravely ventures into a dark and mysterious forest filled with bizarre creatures.

Distribution Rights and Deal Details

This multi-year agreement grants Shout! Studios comprehensive distribution rights across the U.S. and Canada, covering theatrical releases, digital platforms, physical home entertainment, and even airlines. The deal was negotiated by Gus Krieger, Director of Acquisitions & Development, and Steven Katz, VP of Business Affairs for Shout! Studios, alongside Florencia Gil, Head of International Sales for Urban Sales.

Production and Recognition

Into the Wonderwoods is produced by Je Suis Bien Content (Mars Express, Persepolis), Gao Shan Pictures (Little Nicholas, I Lost My Body), both based in France, and Zeilt Productions (Mr. Hublot, Barababor) in Luxembourg.

The film made its debut at the prestigious Cannes Film Festival last year, followed by a screening at Annecy, and was released in French theaters in October. Notably, Into the Wonderwoods was nominated for the animated feature category at this year’s Lumières Awards, France’s equivalent of the Golden Globes.