Gaumont Animation

Gaumont Animation develops, finances and produces animated television series and feature films for international audiences. The dedicated animation arm of Gaumont combines a focus on children’s and family entertainment with a catalogue that also includes adult animation. Its work spans 2D animation and 3D CGI, original intellectual property, literary adaptations and international co-productions.

The studio began in France in February 1997 as Alphanim, founded by Christian Davin. Early productions included Mona the Vampire, Robotboy and Galactik Football. Gaumont acquired the business in late 2007, with the transaction finalized in January 2008. Following a period using the name Gaumont Alphanim, the company adopted its current name in March 2013.

Development and production

The studio’s capabilities extend from concept creation, storyboarding and character design through animation production, voice casting, audio post-production and CGI supervision. Its activities also encompass international distribution and brand licensing, connecting production with the wider commercial development of its properties. A coordinated team across France and the United States supports creative development, production management and relationships with international partners.

Its productions reach audiences through broadcasters, streaming services and theatrical distribution. Collaborators and commissioning platforms identified in its work include Apple TV+, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, France Télévisions, Gulli and Disney.

Selected work

The catalogue includes Stillwater, adapted from Jon J. Muth’s Zen Shorts; Samurai Rabbit: The Usagi Chronicles, based on Stan Sakai’s Usagi Yojimbo; the musical preschool series Do, Re & Mi; and the adult animated sitcom F is for Family. Other productions include Bionic Max, Calimero, Furiki Wheels and Lanfeust Quest.

International co-productions include Noddy, Toyland Detective with DreamWorks Animation and Belle and Sebastian with PVP Media. The studio’s feature activities include Santa’s Apprentice and participation in Leap! / Ballerina. Its forthcoming musical feature High in the Clouds is being developed with Paul McCartney and MPL Communications, continuing its work adapting properties for international animation audiences.