CMG, which has represented indie animated features such as Khumba, Zambezia and Hoodwinked at market, will commence international sales for a brand new CG, stereoscopic 3-D animated feature at AFM: RGH Entertainment’s The Santa Story. The film is schedule for a holiday 2015 release.
Inspired by L. Frank Baum’s Life and Adventures of Santa Claus, the film is directed by Anthony Bell (Alpha & Omega) from a screenplay by David J. Corbett. Santa Story reveals the origins of a little boy named Nick who grew up to become Santa Claus, following his formative years and childhood adventures as he grows up and must confront his self doubts with the help of two crafty elves, a majestic reindeer and a group of lovable orphans. CMG will screen some initial footage at AFM.
Headlining RGH’s slate at the market will be the recently completed CG 3-D Postman Pat: The Movie, in production and slated for a wide release in the U.K. on May 23, 2014–RGH’s Ilyssa Goodman will be managing North American sales, while Timeless Films is managing worldwide sales. Postman Pat, directed by Mike Disa (Hoodwinked Too! Hood vs. Evil) from a screenplay by Kim Fuller and Annika Bluhm, is produced by RGH and DreamWorks Classics and stars Stephen Mangan (Episodes) as the beloved character, with Jim Broadbent, Rupert Grint and David Tennant.
Further, RGH is partnering with Unique Features on a new film based on Sir Paul McCartney’s children’s book, High in the Clouds; a stereo CG film about a squirrel’s quest to find a fabled animal sanctuary called Animalia. The pic is in development, with McCartney composing original songs for the film. Tony Bancroft (Bunyan & Babe, Mulan) will direct from a screenplay adapted by Josh Klausner (Shrek Forever After).
