CAKE to Launch Pablo at MIPCOM

CAKE is rolling out the animated preschool series Pablo, featuring a protagonist with autism, at MIPCOM next month.

Produced by Paper Owl Films, the 52×11-minute series centers on a smart and artistic little boy named Pablo whose imaginative drawings come to life and help him face the real world with confidence. Pablo, who is on the autism spectrum, uses his magic crayons to turn his life challenges into adventures and his feelings into characters.

The 2D animated series with a blend of live action is set to air on CBeebies and RTÉJr. from October 2, and a second season was commissioned last November, a year ahead of delivery, marking a CBeebies first. Six games and a slate of short films accompany the series. CAKE is executive producer and is handling international distribution. Pablo was produced by Paper Owl Films for CBeebies and RTÉJr. in association with Kavaleer Productions and Ingenious, with funding from Northern Ireland Screen and BAI.

Ed Galton, the CCO and managing director at CAKE and exec producer on Pablo, said, “Pablo is a unique show celebrating creativity and individuality. Beautifully animated and sensitively produced, we are extremely proud to be part of this exciting project.”

Grainne McGuinness, the creative director at Paper Owl Films, added, “Pablo is an authentic exploration of what everyday life is like for a little boy with autism. It is also an optimistic depiction, a celebration of difference and, we hope, a springboard for a more positive and empathetic conversation about autism. We are delighted to be working with CAKE to maximize distribution of the series across the world, ensuring Pablo’s unique voice is heard by the widest possible audience.”