So Paulo Animation Showcases Brazils Thrilling and Thriving Toon Industry

May 2024 · 6 minute read

Brazil’s thriving animation scene has been on display around the world over the past year, with titles teasing, screening and winning awards at major international events such as Palm Springs, Annecy, San Sebastian and the Quirino Awards.

At this year’s MIFA, the world’s most important animation industry get-together, a São Paulo Animation Showcase highlighted a batch of projects from São Paulo’s leading animation studios. The event was a collaboration between BrC (Brazilian Content), Spcine – the city of São Paulo’s film-TV body – and the Annecy-based market.

Service industries, such as animation, require hives of talent to cross-pollinate through the many studios based in the city. Attendees pointed to a strong base of experienced producers, animators, and support staff, many boasting 15 to 20 years of experience. This wealth of expertise has created a critical mass of talent, providing São Paulo’s animation industry a solid bedrock for sustained growth and international collaborations, the key goal BrC exists to promote. São Paulo, it seems, with a sprawling metropolis more populous than New York City and a reputation as a cultural epicenter, provides an ideal environment for the animation industry to flourish. 

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Below, Variety profiles seven animated projects with São Paulo origins:

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“The Little Monkey Monk” (Châtrone, Motim Criativo, Brazil)

The show’s tranquil color palette and soft, huggable character designs are complemented by warm lighting and fluid animation, creating a calming atmosphere designed to bring peace and serenity to young viewers. The only vibrant element is the character Mimo’s gem on his forehead. First pitched in 2023 at Rio2C and Series_Lab, this project was created by Fe Brandão and Gui Oller.

“Arlindo,” (Birdo, Brazil/Verité Entertainment, Canada)

“Arlindo” is a coming-of-age feature film that intertwines teenage life with nostalgia and queer representation. Based on the acclaimed Brazilian comic book by Luiza Souza, this advanced development project is created by Luiza and Rafael Gomes. Set in 2007, it follows Arlindo, a boy in Brazil’s northeastern countryside, navigating love and acceptance. Described by the directors as “a love letter to everyone who has ever felt wrong for existing as they are.” Scheduled for delivery in late 2026.

“Handwriting,” (Circo Onírico, Brazil)

Radhi Merron of Serco Uniricor unveiled “Letra de Mou,” or “Handwriting,” a short film about a middle school teacher who mysteriously loses the ability to read and write. The story, inspired by Radhi’s own teaching experiences, explores themes of education, language, and connection. The 2D project is in development and seeks partners for further progress.

“Among the Stars,” (Split Studio, Brazil)

It follows sisters Tai and Ari as they fight for survival and their community in the face of criminal fires in the giant wetlands of Pantanal. The project includes a feature film in early development and a game in pre-production, with the game set for a 2026 release and the film aiming for 2028, an example of burgeoning attempts to grow far-reaching IP. Directed by Guille Hiertz and Graciela Guarani, and created by Renan Reixach & Guille Hiertz, the buzzy project will look to portray indigenous struggles sensitively, involving indigenous voices in every step of production.

“Metal Quest,” (44 Toons, Brazil)

A child’s comedy fantasy full of adventure, “Metal Quest” follows rebellious teen Ian who forms a Heavy Metal band and discovers a magical guitar transporting him to Metal Land. A place ruled by Princess Pop Currently in background development for animation tests, the project aims for a late 2026 release. Created by Ale McHaddo, founder of 44 Toons, the series aims to challenge conventions with its blend of rebellion, music, and fantasy. 

“Nemito,” (Loberoso Studio, Brazil)

“Nemito” is an “introspective tropical sci-fi adventure” set in a futuristic São Paulo. Currently in production, the film is slated for delivery in February 2025. Co-directed and written by Eryk Souza and Ivanildo Soares, and produced by Gabriel Arruda, this indie project observes the life of a young delivery guy navigating an app-driven gig economy. When Nemito finds a gadget revealing the hidden sounds of objects, he enters a hypnotic state, exploring the world anew. It melds a tropical Futurism and Solarpunk aesthetic, blending Brazilian flavor with Japanese animation aesthetics.

“Pompom Power,” (Studio Z, Brazil)

“PomPom Power” is an animated preschool series blending entertainment with a purpose. Set in the vibrant PomPom Land, it follows Lila, Gaz, Mia, Riku, and Tina-Tin on fun and educational adventures. In late development, the show’s first 10 musical clips are set for release in August 2024, with the full series planned for summer 2025. Created by J.R. Braz, known for “Turminha Paraíso,” made for Prime and produced by Rey Marchesini.

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