Full Breakdown
The Little Run: French Animated Feature Moves Into Pre-Production Ahead of 2028 Release
6/16/2026, 2:42:20 AM
The Little Run Enters Pre-Production
Paris-based Picolo Pictures announced that its debut animated feature, *The Little Run*, has entered pre-production. Directed by Julien Bisaro and co-written by Claire Paoletti, the family-oriented film is slated for a theatrical release in 2028. The project is supported by France’s CNC Advance on Receipts program and has secured presales with Canal+, Ciné+, France 3 Cinéma and Germany’s ZDF.
Background & Context
*The Little Run* follows Picolo’s award-winning short *Shooom’s Odyssey* (Annie, César nomination, 54 awards). The feature debuted at the 2023 MIFA Pitch in Annecy, winning three awards, and later appeared at Cartoon Movie 2024.
Key Figures & Organizations
Director Julien Bisaro and co-writer/producer Claire Paoletti lead the project. Picolo Pictures (Paris) produces the film with Luxembourg partner Doghouse Films. Diaphana Distribution handles French release; Charades manages international sales. Funding includes CNC’s Advance on Receipts and presales to Canal+, Ciné+, France 3 Cinéma and Germany’s ZDF.
Timeline
2023 – presented at MIFA Pitch, winning the Ciclic Centre-Val de Loire Region, SACD and Cristal Publishing awards. 2024 – featured at Cartoon Movie. 2028 – scheduled theatrical release in France and abroad.
Data & Statistics
MIFA awards: three pitching honors. Target audience: families with children five and up. *Shooom’s Odyssey* earned 54 awards, including an Annie and César nomination. Distribution: Diaphana (France), Charades (global); presales to Canal+, Ciné+, France 3 Cinéma, ZDF.
Why It Matters
The film strengthens French animation’s role in the global family market and demonstrates a dialogue-free storytelling style based on sound and movement. The Luxembourg co-production highlights growing cross-border collaboration in European animation.
Official Statements & Responses
Picolo Pictures said work is underway to build the animation pipeline with partner studios and to finalize the Luxembourg co-production with Doghouse Films. Producers cited CNC Advance on Receipts support and presale agreements as key to financing and distribution.
Criticism & Opposition
No critical or opposing commentary was identified in the available sources.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
All sources present a consistent picture of the film’s development status; no discrepancies or missing information were noted.
Verbatim Quotes
- “It’s amazing to see the movie we dreamed up with Julien come to life right before our eyes.” — Claire Paoletti, Co-writer/Producer
- “I can’t wait to share this story - which is especially close to our hearts - with a large audience thanks to the partners and exceptional artists who came together for the film.” — Claire Paoletti, Co-writer/Producer
What’s Next
The team will continue building the animation pipeline, finalize the Luxembourg co-production, and prepare marketing for the 2028 release. Charades will lead international sales; Diaphana will manage the French theatrical rollout.
