Ecuadorian talent has taken center stage at the prestigious Annecy International Animation Film Festival. In a significant move to promote innovation and collaboration in Ibero-American animation, the Ibermedia Next initiative, part of the broader Ibermedia program, announced the selection of 15 animated projects in its third edition. Notably, five of these animated projects feature Ecuadorian participation, consolidated the country’s creative and technical potential in the global animation scene.

Investment in Creativity and Technology

The selected projects, which span across 12 countries, will receive substantial financial backing totaling €2,500,000. Each project will receive a direct grant of €150,000. Additionally, the programs offer training and consulting services to enhance the quality of these creative endeavors.

Highlighting Ecuadorian Projects

“Tagamanom. Hidden World”

This co-production between Ecuador, Spain, and Brazil, led by Pere Clos and Diana Rodríguez, intriguingly uses artificial intelligence and Unreal Engine to blend Waorani tradition with 2D/3D technology for a unique family narrative.

“The Mukis”

Another notable project, “The Mukis,” is a collaboration between Spain, Peru, Ecuador, and Panama, directed by Cecilia Sueiro. This project stands out for its satirical commentary on cultural appropriation in the Andes, merging live action and CGI.

“Nosé”

Led by July Naters, “Nosé” is a collaboration with Spain, Peru, and Venezuela. This project uses Grease Pencil and Unreal Engine to explore themes of self-acceptance, combining 2D/3D comic aesthetics with social criticism.

“Urpi and Ziggy”

Co-produced by Spain, Ecuador, Peru, and Chile, “Urpi and Ziggy” celebrates diversity by intertwining Quechua culture with science fiction. The project, directed by Pamela Chovan and Gabriel Bonilla, utilizes Blender and Unreal Engine for its 3D effects with 2D integration.

“Pinkoland”

An Ecuador-Spanish collaboration, “Pinkoland” is directed by Luis Usón. This 3D animation feature targets both young and adult audiences, following the story of Kassy, an orphan working in a bio-synthetic bear park.

Empowering the Ibero-American Animation Scene

Ibermedia Next, supported by the European Recovery Plan’s Next Generation funds, aims to foster innovation by promoting disruptive technologies and new narratives in the animation sector. The selection of Ecuador in this edition signals the burgeoning strength and quality of its animation industry on the international stage.

Strengthening Ecuador’s Animation Network

This selection is not just a recognition of Ecuador’s talent but also a testament to Ibermedia Next’s commitment to fostering diversity and risk-taking narratives. The projects with Ecuadorian participation highlight the country’s capacity in animation and the industry’s commitment to using innovative, open-source software.