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Akiko – The Flying Monkey: A soaring adventure for kids and families
A new cinematic journey begins
In the world of children’s cinema, few films manage to capture the imagination quite like “Akiko – The Flying Monkey.” Directed by the seasoned filmmaker Veit Helmer, this German kids and family feature has already made waves by securing distribution deals in over 40 territories, including Germany, Austria, and numerous MENA, CIS, and African countries. The film’s domestic distribution in Germany will be handled by Farbfilm Verleih, ensuring that local audiences get to experience this enchanting tale.
A festival favorite
“Akiko – The Flying Monkey” is set to participate in this year’s Kids Screenings at the Locarno Film Festival, a prestigious event known for showcasing auteur-driven arthouse titles. Despite its focus on highbrow cinema, Locarno’s Kids section has proven to be a commercial powerhouse. Last year, the Finnish kids and family title “Snot & Splash” sparked one of the festival’s biggest bidding wars, eventually being acquired by FilmSharks. This year, all eyes are on Akiko and his high-flying adventures.
The story of Akiko
The film begins in a German zoo, where Akiko, a young monkey, believes he has found his home. However, as the trailer reveals, Akiko soon discovers that there is a vast world beyond the zoo’s confines. Determined to reunite with his family and free other captive animals, Akiko embarks on a daring escape. The narrative is a blend of live-action and digital effects, with over 800 VFX shots enhancing the visual experience. You can watch the trailer and get more information about the film here.
A director’s vision
Veit Helmer is no stranger to the world of cinema. With a career spanning 35 years, his films have graced the screens of Cannes, Sundance, and Slamdance, earning him a European Film Award nomination for “Tuvalu.” Helmer’s vision for “Akiko – The Flying Monkey” was to create a narrative that resonates with anyone who retains a sense of wonder about the world. “The film uses the playful antics and challenges of Akiko and his friends to explore themes of freedom and the hidden magic that surrounds us every day,” says Helmer.
Behind the scenes
The production of “Akiko – The Flying Monkey” was a collaborative effort, supported by various German film institutions, including the German Federal Commissioner for Culture and the Media, Kuratorium junger deutscher Film (KjdF), the German Federal Film Fund (DFFF), the Filmförderungsanstalt (FFA), Medienboard Berlin-Brandenburg, and Filmförderung Mecklenburg-Vorpommern. The film also received backing from several German broadcasters, including NDR, BR, SWR, HR, SR, and RBB.
The magic of digital effects
One of the standout features of “Akiko – The Flying Monkey” is its impressive use of digital effects. For a European indie film, incorporating over 800 VFX shots is no small feat. These effects bring Akiko’s world to life, making his adventures even more captivating for audiences of all ages.
A universal appeal
“Akiko – The Flying Monkey” is more than just a children’s film; it’s a story that speaks to the child in all of us. Its themes of freedom, adventure, and the magic of the unknown are universal, making it a film that can be enjoyed by both kids and adults alike. As the film continues to secure distribution deals across the globe, it’s clear that Akiko’s journey is one that resonates with audiences far and wide.
Looking ahead
As ”Akiko – The Flying Monkey” prepares to make its debut at the Locarno Film Festival, the excitement surrounding the film continues to build. With ongoing discussions with distributors in other European countries, the film’s reach is set to expand even further. For those who have ever dreamed of soaring through the skies and discovering new worlds, Akiko’s adventure is one not to be missed.
“Akiko – The Flying Monkey” reminds us all of the boundless possibilities that await when we dare to dream and explore. Whether you’re a child or simply young at heart, Akiko’s story is sure to inspire and delight.
