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São Paulo’s animation industry: A rising star in global entertainment
The animation scene in São Paulo has been making waves internationally, showcasing its vibrant creativity and technical prowess. Over the past year, Brazilian animated projects have been featured and awarded at prestigious events like Palm Springs, Annecy, San Sebastian, and the Quirino Awards. This article delves into the thriving animation industry in São Paulo, highlighting key projects and the talent driving this success.
A hub of creativity and expertise
At the recent MIFA, the world’s premier animation industry gathering, a special São Paulo Animation Showcase presented a selection of projects from the city’s leading studios. This event, a collaboration between Brazilian Content (BrC), Spcine, and the Annecy-based market, underscored São Paulo’s growing influence in the global animation landscape.
The city’s animation industry benefits from a rich pool of experienced professionals, including producers, animators, and support staff, many with 15 to 20 years of experience. This concentration of talent has created a fertile ground for innovation and international collaboration, positioning São Paulo as a key player in the global animation market.
Notable projects from São Paulo
The Little Monkey Monk
The Little Monkey Monk is a serene and visually soothing series created by Fe Brandão and Gui Oller. The show features a tranquil color palette, soft character designs, and fluid animation, creating a calming atmosphere for young viewers. The character Mimo, with a gem on his forehead, adds a touch of vibrancy to the otherwise peaceful setting. First pitched in 2023, this project has garnered attention for its unique aesthetic and gentle storytelling.
Arlindo
Arlindo is a coming-of-age feature film that blends teenage life with nostalgia and queer representation. Based on a popular Brazilian comic book by Luiza Souza, this project is set in 2007 and follows Arlindo, a boy in Brazil’s northeastern countryside, as he navigates love and acceptance. Described as a ”love letter to everyone who has ever felt wrong for existing as they are,” this film is scheduled for release in late 2026.
Handwriting
Handwriting (Letra de Mou) is a short film by Radhi Merron of Circo Onírico. The story revolves around a middle school teacher who mysteriously loses the ability to read and write, exploring themes of education, language, and connection. Inspired by Radhi’s own teaching experiences, this 2D project is currently in development and seeking partners for further progress.
Among the Stars
Among the Stars follows sisters Tai and Ari as they fight for survival and their community amidst criminal fires in the Pantanal wetlands. This 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. Directed by Guille Hiertz and Graciela Guarani, and created by Renan Reixach & Guille Hiertz, the project aims to sensitively portray indigenous struggles, involving indigenous voices throughout production.
Metal Quest
Metal Quest is a child’s comedy fantasy series about rebellious teen Ian, who forms a Heavy Metal band and discovers a magical guitar that transports him to Metal Land, a place ruled by Princess Pop. Created by Ale McHaddo, founder of 44 Toons, this series challenges conventions with its blend of rebellion, music, and fantasy. The project is currently in background development for animation tests, aiming for a late 2026 release.
Nemito
Nemito is an introspective tropical sci-fi adventure set in a futuristic São Paulo. Co-directed and written by Eryk Souza and Ivanildo Soares, and produced by Gabriel Arruda, this indie project follows a young delivery guy navigating an app-driven gig economy. When Nemito finds a gadget that reveals the hidden sounds of objects, he enters a hypnotic state, exploring the world anew. The film, blending Brazilian flavor with Japanese animation aesthetics, is slated for delivery in February 2025.
Pompom Power
Pompom Power is an animated preschool series that combines entertainment with educational content. Set in the vibrant PomPom Land, it follows Lila, Gaz, Mia, Riku, and Tina-Tin on fun and educational adventures. Created by J.R. Braz, known for “Turminha Paraíso,” this series is in late development, with the first 10 musical clips set for release in August 2024 and the full series planned for summer 2025.
The future of São Paulo’s animation industry
São Paulo’s animation industry is poised for continued growth, driven by a combination of experienced talent, innovative projects, and international collaborations. As the city continues to establish itself as a cultural epicenter, its animation scene is set to captivate audiences worldwide with its unique blend of creativity and technical excellence.
