Animagrad Studio, the leading Ukrainian animation company behind the global hit film “Mavka. The Forest Song”, has unveiled the first teaser for its latest project “Family Band”, Ukraine’s first satirical animated film.
This 2D animated comedy-drama, aimed at a young audience, is a collaboration with acclaimed Ukrainian director Antonio Lukić (“My Thoughts Are Silent,” “Luxembourg, Luxembourg”).
The trailer introduces viewers to the film's protagonist, Serhiy Ponko, a 30-year-old outcast whose life unexpectedly changes when a heavenly mistake by Mickey, the cat angel of death, sends him to heaven. Serhiy's journey to the land of the living leads him to the front lines and the Chub Pirates, a group of former smugglers from Transcarpathia. The story promises a mixture of love, betrayal and self-discovery.
Initially launched on YouTube under the name “Nasha Faita,” creators Mykhailo Krapenko, Pavlo Mandžić, and Ivan Bon present their first animated film, “Family Squad.” Lukic serves as the creative producer of the story, which aims to mix humor, satire, and social commentary.
Anna Eliseeva (Mavka. The Forest Song) is producing in collaboration with Maite Walkock (My Fairy Troublemaker), with Mavka alumnus Chris Koskinen serving as artistic director. The project is directed by Konstantin Fedorov, another Mavka alumnus.
The film has attracted international attention, with German studio Telescope Animation joining as a development partner. The European Solidarity Fund for Ukrainian Films (ESFUF) has also provided support.
“Mavka. The Forest Song” has been released in 148 countries and has grossed over $21 million worldwide. Ukrainian group Film.UA, which owns the studio, announced earlier this year that it is developing “Mavka.” A 3D animated TV series based on the film’s folklore is also in the works.
Watch the trailer here:
