TV Asahi and Sony Pictures Networks India (SPNI) have announced a collaboration to produce a new sequel to the cult kids’ animation series Obocchama-kun (26 x 22’ or 52 x 11’). The project will be presented to buyers at MIPCOM this month.
Based on the hugely popular 1986 manga written and created by Yoshinori Kobayashi, Obocchama-kun became a cultural phenomenon in Japan when it first aired in 1989. Now, 35 years later, the series is experiencing a resurgence in popularity in India, sparking this joint venture to produce a sequel series. For this co-production, the stories and character design will be created in Japan and the animation will be produced in India.
The new anime adaptation will feature 26 brand-new episodes continuing the adventures of the original series produced by TV Asahi. Targeted at six- to 11-year olds, the 2D comedy series follows the hilarious adventures of Chama, a “crazy rich” boy with his outrageous school and family life. With one of the world’s largest fortunes and a mansion so vast that one could get lost in without a guide, the Obo family is incredibly wealthy. It is said that the head of the family can influence global affairs with just a word. This is the splendid and tumultuous daily drama of their only son and the 999th head of the family — Chama, also known as Obocchama-kun.
“Obocchama-kun’s success in India reflects the power of its playful charm and relatable storytelling,” said SPNI’s Ronojoy Chakraborty. “As an Indo-Japanese co-production, it has struck a chord with kids, fostering a strong emotional connection. Bringing this series to MIPCOM allows us to showcase its global potential, offering a fresh opportunity to captivate international audiences and grow its fan community worldwide.”
Maiko Sumida, Head of Animation Sales & Development at TV Asahi added, “This Obocchama-kun is a new initiative for TV Asahi, with the script and basic art settings being produced in Japan and the animation being fully produced in India. This was made possible by the enthusiastic support from SONY Pictures Networks India, who eagerly wished for a sequel to the initial series of Obocchama-kun, and the passionate encouragement from the original manga artist, Yoshinori Kobayashi. TV Asahi is investing a lot of effort into this project and is looking forward to the audience’s reaction.”
TV Asahi will be showcasing Obocchama-kun as a world premiere at this year’s MIPCOM 2024 (Stand R7.E67). The first episode will be screened at a breakfast session held at Verrière Californie, Palais 5, Palais des Festivals on Monday, Oct. 21 at 9 a.m., followed by a Q&A session with SPNI, TV Asahi and Green Gold Animation.
SPNI plans to start airing the series across India next year on its children’s channel SONY YAY! TV Asahi will be responsible for the worldwide TV, VOD and L&M rights excluding Japan and India.
