Primal Shape

Primal Shape is an independent Italian animation studio and full-service production company headquartered in Turin, with a production presence in Naples. Its work spans animated television, feature films, cinematic game trailers, commercials and original intellectual property. The studio combines character-focused animation with capabilities across the production pipeline, supporting both commissioned projects and co-productions.

The company began in late 2014 as a collective of experienced 3D character animators and incorporated in 2018. Its founding artists brought experience from international animation and visual effects studios, including Illumination Mac Guff, MPC, Axis Studios, Digic Pictures and Puppetworks. Initially focused on character layout, previsualization and keyframe or motion-capture-based animation, Primal Shape subsequently expanded into complete animation production and original content development.

Animation and visual development

Character and creature performance are central to the studio’s work. Its capabilities extend from storyboards, animatics and layout through modeling, texturing, character setup, rigging and animation direction. Lighting, shading, rendering, compositing and post-production complete its production offering.

Alongside 3D animation, Primal Shape develops stylized imagery that combines 2D and 3D aesthetics. Non-photorealistic rendering supports painterly visual treatments, allowing projects to pursue distinctive looks across television, promotional and cinematic formats.

Commissioned work and original productions

The studio’s portfolio includes television co-production, animation services for feature films and promotional content for games and entertainment brands. Its role varies by project, from character animation contributions to broader production responsibilities. This range allows it to support existing productions as well as develop projects from an earlier creative stage.

Primal Shape expanded into independent IP creation and co-production in 2020. Its original development includes short-form animation and animated television projects, while its long-form work involves collaboration with broadcasters and European production partners. The company serves children’s television, streaming, feature animation, advertising, video games and virtual reality projects.