A fresh wave in adult animation: ‘Mare the Mermaid’ makes a splash
A new era for adult animation
In a significant move for the adult animation genre, Miam! Distribution has secured the rights to Silex Animation’s highly anticipated series, Mare the Mermaid. This series, which has already generated considerable buzz at the 2023 Cartoon Forum, is set to debut on France Télévisions’ young adult platform, Slash, in the final quarter of 2026.
Breaking the mold: The story of Mare
The official synopsis of Mare the Mermaid introduces us to Princess Pelagie, a mermaid who defies societal expectations. She abandons her royal duties and adopts a new identity, Mare, as she embarks on a journey to college. Her mission is to escape the relentless media spotlight and her mother’s watchful eye. However, Mare quickly discovers that blending in is not as simple as it seems. As she navigates a sea of secrets and fish-out-of-water situations, she learns that embracing her true self is the only way forward.
A unique production team
The series is directed by Samuel de Ceccatty, a French-American filmmaker known for his 2022 animated short, Lilith & Eve, which premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival. The writing team, consisting of Iris de Jessey and Thomas Colineau, brings a fresh perspective with their backgrounds in live-action. This blend of live-action experience and animation expertise promises a grounded yet whimsical approach to the series.
Influences and inspirations
De Ceccatty’s unique background, influenced by both French and American cultures, plays a significant role in the series’ development. He believes that there is a substantial audience in France that is underserved in terms of local adult animation. Mare the Mermaid aims to fill this gap, offering a fresh twist on the genre that resonates both locally and internationally.
The series draws inspiration from a mix of international live-action TV shows and animated series. Comedies like Sex Education are referenced as often as animated classics like The Simpsons. This blend of influences aims to introduce something new to the French adult animation scene.
A global vision with French roots
While the series is designed to be accessible to international audiences, it also embraces its uniquely French roots. The aesthetic of the show is heavily influenced by the urban landscape of Paris, offering a fresh and romantic setting that stands out from the typical suburban backdrops of American animated shows.
To ensure the series’ global appeal, the production team avoids using written language on screen and plans English-language alternatives for every joke. This meticulous approach aims to make the series relatable and enjoyable for a diverse audience.
Strategic distribution and market potential
Mélanie Erréa, head of sales and acquisitions at Miam!, believes that the company’s previous success with adult animation, particularly titles featuring female leads, will help in finding homes for Mare the Mermaid across Europe. The company’s experience with the series Brazen, adapted from Pénélope Bagieu’s comics, has paved the way for Mare‘s potential success.
Lucille Janvier, Miam!’s sales and acquisitions manager, adds that the market conditions are perfect for a show like Mare to break out. The series’ relatable characters and contemporary themes of identity, sexuality, and friendship make it a timely addition to the international market.
Looking ahead
Miam! Distribution is set to showcase Mare the Mermaid at major markets this fall, including the Unifrance Rendez-Vous in Le Havre and Mipcom. The team is optimistic that the series will resonate with audiences and establish a new standard for adult animation.
For those eager to dive into the world of Mare the Mermaid, you can check out the trailer and stay tuned for more updates as the series approaches its release date.
Personal reflections: As a fan of both cinema and TV series, the emergence of Mare the Mermaid is an exciting development. The blend of live-action sensibilities with animation, coupled with a strong female lead, promises a refreshing and engaging viewing experience. The series’ unique aesthetic, influenced by the urban landscape of Paris, adds an extra layer of charm that sets it apart from typical animated shows. I look forward to seeing how Mare the Mermaid will resonate with audiences both in France and internationally.