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For the third year in a row, an animated feature produced by Catalan companies will feature in Annecy’s main competition. Following strong showings from the eventual Oscar nominee “Robot Dreams” in 2023 and “Rock Bottom” in 2024, the region’s first-ever stop-motion feature “Olivia and the Invisible Earthquake” will premiere in 2025.
“Olivia” isn’t the only Catalan title looking to make waves at Annecy this year. Below, we take a closer look at some of the hottest upcoming Catalan productions set to impress at Annecy and its accompanying MIFA Market.
“Olivia and the Invisible Earthquake”
Director: Irene Iborra
Production: Cornelius Films, Citoplasmas, Panique!, Bigaro Films
Spanish Distributor/Sales Agent: Filmax / Pyramide Films
Screening: Premiere on June 9, 10:30, Grande Salle
The jewel in this year’s Catalan crown at Annecy, “Olivia and the Invisible Earthquake” is the first-ever stop-motion feature produced in Catalonia and only the third from Spain. Playing in the festival’s main competition, this heartfelt and socially conscious family feature follows young Olivia as she navigates a world that suddenly seems out of sync when her single-parent, middle-class family is evicted from their Barcelona apartment. Using imaginative and colorful visual metaphors, the film touches on childhood anxiety and resilience in a manner with which audiences of all ages can empathize. The collaborative production brings together studios from Spain, France, Belgium and Chile, marking a cross-cultural effort that enriches its narrative depth.
“Pink Punk Delta” (fka “The Girl and the Flamingo”)
Director: Alba Sotorra
Production: Alba Sotorra Productions, Artichoke (Slovakia), Pájaro (Chile)
Pitch Event: June 12 – MIFA Feature Film Pitching Sessions – June 11, 9:00 and 10:45
Described as a punk feminist road movie in animated form, “Pink Punk Delta” dives into themes of identity, queerness and rebellion. From Catalan super-producer and prolific filmmaker Alba Sotorra – producer of 2024 Contrechamp player “Rock Bottom” – this project combines vibrant 2D animation with a raw, uncompromising narrative style. The project is currently in development and already generating buzz. The pitch promises a bold new voice in European adult animation.
“A Dangerous Journey”
Director: Lucija Stojevic
Production: Noon Films
Screening: Ibermedia Next Pitch and networking event – June 11, 17:15
Blending documentary and fiction, this animated feature explores the treacherous paths of migration through the lens of personal testimony. Director Stojevic crafts a haunting visual journey that draws from real-world accounts, aiming to raise awareness with empathy and artistry.
“The Origin of Experience” (“El origen de la experiencia”)
Director: Zulu González
Production: Cornelius Films (Catalonia), Hampa Studio (Spain), The42Film (Mexico), El Taller del Chucho (Mexico), La Corriente del Golfo (Mexico), Midralgar (France)
Screening: Ibermedia Next Pitch and networking event – June 11, 17:15
A philosophical exploration of childhood, memory, and perception, this visually striking film mixes abstract storytelling with traditional animation. González’s direction promises a cerebral but emotionally resonant work that challenges the conventions of animated cinema.
“Aya in the Desert”
Director: Julia Horrillo Plá
Producer: Alhena Production
Presentation: Women in Animation from Spain – June 12, 10:00
Intended for adult audiences, this feature from first-timer Julia Horrillo Plá follows Awa, a 13-year-old girl fleeing war in the Ivory Coast, who is intercepted on the coast of Cádiz while disguised as a boy. Taken to a sports center, she recalls her perilous journey and separation from her mother. Drawing strength from imagined tales of warrior Akwa Boni, Awa finds resilience and hope as she tries to contact her cousin in Seville and dreams of reuniting with her mother. Currently in development.
MIFA MARKET STANDOUTS
“The Treasure of Barracuda”
Director: Adrià García
Production: Inicia Films, Hampa Studio, Belvision
Adapted from the beloved children’s book, this colorful pirate adventure is full of charm and life lessons. Aimed at family audiences, it’s scheduled for a Spanish theatrical release in October 2025. Helming is García, the rated director of Filmax’s admired “Nocturna,” and “My Family and the Wolf,” from Didier Brunner’s top French animation producer Folivari
“Hanna’s Forgotten Christmas”
Director: Elena Ruiz Guitart
Production: Érase una vez films, Miyagi Films, Veligandu AIE
A cozy holiday sequel to “Hanna and the Monsters,” this warm tale follows young Hanna as she rekindles joy in her town. With its December 2025 release, it’s poised to become a seasonal favorite.
“Black Moth”
Producers:
Format: 26 x 22’ | Target Age: 7–12
A female-led superhero eco-adventure series about a girl whose music turns her into an environmental crusader. With themes of inclusivity, sustainability, and empowerment, Season 1 is already fully funded and due in autumn 2025, with Season 2 in development.
“My Little Heroes”
Format: 52 x 11’
Producers: Peekaboo Animation, Fabrique Fantastique
Targeted at kids 4–8 years old, this educational and adventurous comedy series introduces kids to famous figures like Mandela and Mozart in their childhood, blending humor and historical insight. Based on a popular book series, it was honored with the Audience Award for Best Project Pitch at the 2023 CEE Animation Forum.
“Under the Sofa”
Producer: Teidees
Format: 52 x 7’
A whimsical comedy-adventure about discarded household objects making a life together under a family’s sofa. Highlighting reuse and the hidden value of forgotten items, this vibrant and cartoony series offers humor with an environmental twist.
“Jasmine & Jambo”
Producer: Teidees
Format: Feature
Based on the successful animated series of the same name, this feature project turns on Jasmine, a curious girl, and Jambo, her loyal elephant friend. They journey through a vibrant jungle, meeting various animals and facing challenges. The film highlights themes of friendship, courage and nature conservation. With stunning visuals and a captivating storyline, it appeals to all ages, emphasizing the bond between humans and animals and the beauty of the natural world.
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