Full Breakdown
Animation Takes Center Stage at Berlinale 2026
2/12/2026, 2:39:37 PM
Introduction to Animation Days at EFM
The European Film Market (EFM) is set to spotlight animation with its inaugural Animation Days from February 12-14, 2026. This initiative, a collaboration between the Annecy International Animation Film Festival and EFM, aims to enhance the visibility of the animation sector, which has seen significant box office success, exemplified by China's "Ne Zha 2" grossing $2.25 billion and Disney's "Zootopia 2" earning $1.8 billion. The Animation Days will feature 28 projects presented through five pitching sessions, focusing on co-production and creative collaboration across various European countries, including Canada, Germany, the U.K., and several Central and Eastern European nations.
Key Projects and Presentations
Among the projects showcased, notable entries include "Pesta," a romantic horror set in medieval Norway; "MouMoush — The King of Plastic," a Hungarian fantasy adventure; and "Granny Is a Tree!" by French director Hugo de Faucompret. Additionally, "A Door to the Woods," a hybrid animation co-production from Poland, France, Czechia, and Belgium, will also be presented. These projects aim to attract sales agents and distributors while gaining recognition at international festivals.
UK Animation's Role at Berlinale
The UK animation sector will be prominently featured at the Berlinale, particularly through the UK Spotlight, supported by the BFI National Lottery UK Focus Fund and curated by Animation UK. This segment will include pitch sessions for five family-friendly feature animation projects, showcasing the strength and ambition of UK animation. Producers from companies such as Lupus Films and Hoho Entertainment will present adaptations of beloved stories, including "Toad The Movie," based on Kenneth Grahame's "The Wind In The Willows," and "Brambly Hedge," inspired by Jill Barklem's works.
Industry Challenges and Opportunities
Despite challenges such as market contraction and rising production costs, UK animation professionals express optimism about the industry's potential. The introduction of enhanced tax credits for independent films is seen as a significant incentive for co-productions. Oliver Ellis from Hoho Entertainment emphasized the UK's creative capabilities, stating, "In the UK we have all the creative skills to produce top tier children’s content."
Co-Production Insights
A special session will delve into the co-production of "The Amazing Maurice 2," highlighting the collaborative efforts between UK and German companies. This panel will discuss financing strategies and managing cross-border production workflows, providing valuable insights for industry professionals. Additionally, one-on-one consultations with experts from Aardman, Red Kite Animation, and the BFI will be available, offering further networking opportunities.
Conclusion: The Future of Animation
As animation continues to evolve, the EFM Animation Days and Berlinale 2026 present a pivotal moment for the industry. With a diverse array of projects and a focus on international collaboration, the events aim to strengthen the global animation landscape and foster new partnerships among creators and financiers.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The UK Spotlight at Berlinale reflects the strength, ambition and global relevance of UK animation today — bringing distinctive storytelling and world-class talent to international partners at a pivotal moment for feature animation.” — Kate O’Connor, Executive Chair, Animation UK
- “In the UK we have all the creative skills to produce top tier children’s content,” — Oliver Ellis, Hoho Entertainment
- “The books are so wonderfully charming and warm and still retain their appeal over 40 years since they were first published,” — Camilla Deakin, Lupus Films
