TFOU, the children’s programming block of TF1 (France), announced a pact with family animation studio La Chouette Compagnie (Droners, Imago) to develop Auzou Publishing’s kids’ comics Azuro & The Dragon Squad for television. Created for print by brothers Laurent Souillé and Olivier Souillé and illustrated by Jérémie Fleury, the 52 x 13′ animated comedy-adventure series will be aimed at kids 4-7.
Synopsis: Azuro, Oria and Vermillon form a dragons’ squad, an elite fire department specialised in rescuing and assisting fantastic creatures of all kinds. Every day, the three friends stand ready to leave their firehouse and help all distressed monsters. But, the three dragons are still only apprentices and their missions never happen as expected…
“At first reading, [we were] moved by the stories of Azuro, edited by Auzou Publishing. A real crush,” said Yann Labasque, director of TF1’s youth programs. “Azuro is a young dragon rejected by his peers because he’s blue and doesn’t breathe fire… but water! But this situation may be a good opportunity for him to overcome this difference. This character will gradually shift to a hero finding his way and becoming a lifesaver with his friends. With this new animated series led by La Chouette Cie, children will discover tender, funny and moving stories.”
“Azuro is an extraordinary and inspiring character, as shown by the thousands of readers captivated by the little blue dragon over the past years. Like many others before us, the Chouette Cie team has fallen under his charm,” commented La Chouette producers Mariam Hachmi & Sylvain Dos Santos. “We have been deeply moved by his story, his courage, and his kindness, and have enthusiastically decided to work on the animated adaptation of the book series. We are incredibly proud and happy to engage in this adventure alongside Yann and the TFOU team!”
Auzou Publishing’s Head of Diversification, Adélaïde Quiblier, added, “We are very happy about this new development which wouldn’t have been possible without the amazing work of La Chouette Cie. Azuro is a key character for Auzou Publishing and our aim, with the producer and TF1, is to create an iconic hero for the next generation of kids.”
Newen Distribution has been tapped to handle international distribution.
“We are delighted to be strengthening our partnership with La Chouette Cie and TF1 with the development of Azuro: a unique animated series that features a one-of-a-kind hero and promotes values such as sharing and caring with humor and tenderness,” said Malika Abdellaoui, Managing Director of Newen Distribution. “This wonderful new series will be filled with heart-warming stories that introduce young viewers to a colorful cast of characters they will readily identify with, guaranteeing it broad international appeal. With that firm conviction, we are pleased to be joining the project at this early stage, and will soon be looking for pre-financing partners.”
