Full Breakdown
Feature Film Adaptation of Judd Winick's Hilo Graphic Novel Series
2/25/2026, 1:16:12 PM
Overview of the Adaptation
Mediawan Kids & Family, in collaboration with Amsterdam-based Submarine and Canada’s Sinking Ship Entertainment, is set to produce a feature film adaptation of Judd Winick’s bestselling graphic novel series, *Hilo*. Since its launch in 2015, the series has sold over one million copies globally, captivating audiences with the story of a mysterious young boy who crashes on Earth and embarks on a journey of self-discovery.
Collaborative Efforts and Vision
The partnership aims to create a high-end 3D animated film targeted at family audiences, with aspirations to develop a global franchise around the *Hilo* intellectual property (IP). Mediawan Kids & Family encompasses several labels, including Method Animation, Somewhere Animation, Elliott Studio, and Mediawan Kids & Family Cinema, which collectively contribute to the distribution of children’s content, including the popular series *Miraculous – Tales of Ladybug and Cat Noir*.
Julien Borde, President of Mediawan Kids & Family, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “We have always been big fans of Sinking Ship. We love their ambition for content and permanent quest for innovation.” He emphasized the complementary strengths of the partners in translating the *Hilo* narrative to new audiences.
Technical Expertise and Creative Vision
Sinking Ship Entertainment, known for its work on projects like *SpongeBob Saving Bikini Bottom* and *Jane*, will leverage its technical expertise in the adaptation. Executive Producer Matt Bishop highlighted the project’s need for a unique blend of heart, humor, and high-end visual spectacle, which aligns with the capabilities of their Emmy Award-winning team.
Bruno Felix, co-founder of Submarine, noted the shared vision of establishing *Hilo* as a long-term audiovisual brand, indicating a commitment to creating a rich universe that can evolve across various formats and generations.
Broader Implications of the Adaptation
The adaptation of *Hilo* is part of a larger trend in the entertainment industry, where successful graphic novels are increasingly being transformed into animated films. Mediawan’s track record with franchises such as *Miraculous*, *The Little Prince*, and *The Three Musketeers* showcases its international approach to IP development, aiming to create content that resonates across diverse audiences.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We have always been big fans of Sinking Ship. We love their ambition for content and permanent quest for innovation. By joining our forces, we are bringing together complementary creative and production strengths to translate the world of the book Hilo to screens and new audiences,” — Julien Borde, President of Mediawan Kids & Family
- “Bringing Judd Winick’s Hilo to the screen requires a unique blend of heart, humor, and high-end visual spectacle, exactly the kind of challenge our Emmy Awarding winning team thrives on,” — Matt Bishop, Partner and Executive Producer, Sinking Ship Entertainment
- “Together with Sinking Ship’s creative and technical expertise, our goal is not only to produce a feature film, but to develop a rich universe that can grow across formats and generations.” — Julien Borde, President of Mediawan Kids & Family
The *Hilo* film adaptation represents a significant step in expanding the narrative universe of the graphic novel, with the potential to engage a new generation of viewers while building on the success of the original series.
