Turner & Tencent Pictures Partner for Tuzki Movie

BEIJING: Turner Asia Pacific and Shanghai Tencent Pictures Culture Media are developing a movie based on the famous rabbit emoticon Tuzki.

The feature-length film, which will combine CGI and live-action content, is expected to begin production in 2017, with a likely China release in 2018. This will be the first full-length movie project for Turner-owned Tuzki, which is currently celebrating its 10th anniversary.

Created by Momo Wang in 2006, Tuzki is best known on social media platforms and instant communication apps, but has appeared in short animated projects before.

Clément Schwebig, Turner’s senior VP of business development, licensing and China, said: “This announcement is a huge milestone as we look to grow the Tuzki franchise and reinforces Turner’s commitment to its growing business in China. Turner’s dedicated team in Shanghai is really pleased to be working with Tencent Pictures on this project, who themselves are leaders in developing digital IP.

“Through WeChat, Tencent is obviously very familiar with Tuzki, and everyone is excited to see him appear on the big screen. This irrepressible rabbit has already made a strong emotional connection with a generation of young Chinese, and this film will take engagement to the next level.”

Tencent Pictures commented: “For ten years, millions of young adults in China have used Tuzki’s unique expressions to communicate their feelings with their friends. Now, they can experience Tuzki’s story in what promises to be a remarkable story of adventure and excitement. We’re looking forward to partnering with Turner to create a film starring a timeless and eminently marketable IP.”