Alphanim to Produce Calimero Series

VINCENNES: Gaumont-Alphanim is partnering with the Italian outfit Calidra and the Pagot family for a new series based on the popular Calimero character.

The exclusive pact will see the little black chicken, half enclosed in its shell, being animated in CGI for a new generation of audiences. The deal also grants Alphanim the international distribution rights to the existing 130 half-hour episodes of the Calimero animation, which has aired in almost 80 countries since its debut in the 1960s.

“We are delighted to be working with Alphanim on the development of new adventures which will take Calimero into the new millennium and introduce the character to a whole new generation of young viewers," said Marco Pagot, art director at Calidra.

Pierre Belaisch, managing director at Alphanim, added, “It is an extraordinary opportunity for Alphanim to work on such a historic icon. Calimero is the first of a new series of projects handpicked to develop Alphanim’s involvement in the development of successful international brands.”