Locksmith Animation, the esteemed animation studio based in London, renowned for its "Ron's Gone Wrong" and Netflix's recent release "That Christmas," proudly unveils its eagerly awaited debut independent animated feature.
Encapsulated by its enchanting title, "Wed Wabbit," this captivating film is slated to make its grand debut at the European Film Market, ably distributed worldwide by Timeless Films and skillfully produced in close collaboration with Cantilever Media.
"Wed Wabbit" is meticulously crafted from the pages of a captivating book penned by none other than Lissa Evans, the illustrious BAFTA-winning writer, producer, and director. The film embarks on a whimsical "down the rabbit hole" voyage, infusing witty humor and heart-tugging moments. The tale revolves around Fidge, a pragmatic 12-year-old who finds herself unexpectedly plunged into the whimsical universe of her younger sister Minnie's beloved pop-up book. However, this mesmerizing world has fallen under the despotic rule of the tyrannical Wed Wabbit, Minnie's cherished plaything. To compound Fidge's predicament, she is saddled with her pompous cousin Graham, another hapless soul ensnared in the chaotic realm. To escape this topsy-turvy world, Fidge must deftly navigate its chaotic depths, while outwitting the capricious Wed Wabbit, who is determined to keep both children trapped within.
Natalie Fischer, the esteemed CEO of Locksmith Animation, expresses her excitement over this milestone, stating, "Wed Wabbit' marks a thrilling new chapter for Locksmith Animation, as it represents our maiden foray into independent feature filmmaking. Having collaborated successfully with prominent studios and streaming services, we are now harnessing the boundless potential of the independent market, particularly in the animation sector. Our partnership with Timeless Films grants us an unparalleled opportunity to showcase our narrative prowess and production expertise to independent distributors. As we continue to expand our global footprint, we eagerly anticipate expanding our portfolio with a diverse array of independent projects."
Olly Reid, the visionary director behind this captivating project, brings a wealth of experience honed at renowned studios such as Aardman, Passion Pictures, Axis Studios, and The Imaginarium. The screenplay is the deft work of Gideon Defoe, the creative mind behind "The Pirates!" Julie Lockhart, the co-founder and President of Production at Locksmith Animation, will assume the mantle of producer on behalf of the studio, while Andrew Baker ("The Amazing Maurice") will assume the same role for Cantilever Media. Sky has played a pivotal role in the development of this feature through its partnership with Locksmith.
Ralph Kamp of Timeless Films eloquently articulates their enthusiasm for this collaboration with Locksmith and Cantilever Media, "We are elated to join forces with Locksmith and Cantilever Media in bringing this extraordinary project to life. Locksmith is undoubtedly one of the preeminent animation production companies globally. Timeless is thrilled to be entrusted with the distribution of their inaugural independent film to international distributors, a testament to the extraordinary opportunity at hand."
Locksmith Animation boasts a strategic first-look deal with Warner Bros. Pictures and is actively engaged in the production of "Bad Fairies," an original animated musical brimming with charm. The studio is concurrently developing "The Lunar Chronicles," a cinematic trilogy inspired by Marissa Meyer's best-selling novels, alongside an original animated short.