DQ in Deal for Chaplin-Based Animation

HYDERABAD: DQ Entertainment is aligning with the French outfits Method Animation and MK2 to develop an animated series based on Charlie Chaplin’s films.

The 104×6-minute series in development promises to retain the "humor and the emotional values" of Chaplin’s 70 films. The show, budgeted at 8 million euros, will be produced in color and will be dialogue-free.

Tapaas Chakravarti, the chairman & CEO of DQ Entertainment, stated: "This is history in the making as the partnership with MK2 and our own long term co-production partners Method Animation, Paris, will bring the legendary entertainer Charlie Chaplin back to life in a fantastic ‘Animated Avatar’. The three companies will keep the legend of Charlie Chaplin alive and these large number of short films in hi-end 3D animation will delight the 21st century kids and the families again as they will witness the legendary entertainer in his new Avatar."

Aton Soumache, the president of Method Animation, added: "It is an enormous honour for us to be allowed to work with as legendary and mythical a character as Charlie Chaplin. The adaptation of the Charlie Chaplin character into an animated series is an exciting challenge and an incredible adventure. Our wish is to present a series created from Chaplin’s world, ultimately allowing for children to discover one of the greatest icons of film history and at the same time enticing parents to rediscover the comic genius of Chaplin. The entire series will be produced in stereoscopic 3D bringing forth a fully immersed visual and emotional experience."

Nathanael Karmitz, the president of the board of directors at MK2, added: "Having followed the worldwide theatrical, DVD and television distribution of the films for years, we are proud to announce this project alongside partners whose proven skills in producing outstanding animated series while maintaining a respectful approach to the rights holders are widely known. We are confident that this next step in the promotion of Chaplin’s legacy will reach a greater audience and introduce the greatest international star of modern cinema to younger generations. The series represent an introduction to Chaplin’s world as well as a rediscovery of his body of work."