ZDF Studios Unveils First 2024 Kids’ Highlights

ZDF Studios has revealed the first kids’ program launches and upcoming highlights for 2024, including the CGI series Dinomite & Lucy.

Aimed at children 6 to 9, Dinomite & Lucy takes viewers on a prehistoric adventure by following a resourceful young dinosaur and his pet, a headstrong cave girl. The series is based on the books by Ute Krause and explores the themes of friendship, acceptance and overcoming differences.

The 39×11-minute series is co-produced by TRIKK17 and M.A.R.K.13 and Fabriques d’Images. Toon2Tango is responsible for distribution in French-speaking territories, Italy, Iberia and China, while ZDF Studios is handling distribution in all other territories. The show is now ready for distribution.

Also on the upcoming ZDF Studios kids’ slate is Klincus, a 26×22-minute series targeted at 8- to 12-year-olds. Set in a magical world at the heart of the Great Forest, a steampunk fantasy world at the height of the Industrial Revolution, the series follows a young orphan who escapes from the factory of a wealthy industrialist. He then discovers a secret city that serves as a refuge for little people. The show explores the balance between man and nature, with themes of adventure, friendship, difficult choices and the clash between modernity and tradition.

Klincus is a collaboration between Showlab Srl, Rai Ragazzi, ZDF, Fabrique d’Images and Telegael.

ZDF Studios is currently also seeking co-production/co-development partners for the upcoming adventure comedy Dougie Dolittle. Produced by Caligari Film, the 26×22-minute series for 6- to 9-year-olds is inspired by the story of Doctor Dolittle. It follows 14-year-old Dougie Dolittle, who has the unique ability to communicate with every creature on Earth. He navigates the challenges of living a normal teenage life while also acting as a bridge between the human and animal worlds.

“At the beginning of 2024, I am particularly proud to be one of the first members of our team to be able to focus our efforts on important discussions and activities for these new shows,” said Oliver Grundel, Director Junior at ZDF Studios. “Attending prominent events such as the Kidscreen Summit or SXSW, my primary focus will be on conversations around our upcoming project Dougie Dolittle. This animated series is currently in development and we are actively seeking strong co-production and prebuy partnerships to further develop and realize this wonderful concept in collaboration with our production company. However, we would also like to invite international partners to approach us with project proposals and encourage a spirit of collaboration and creativity.”