Shout! Studios has acquired the North American rights to the animated feature “Panda Bear in Africa” from Cinema Management Group (CMG).
Pandas in Africa tells the story of Pang, a young panda who travels from China to Africa to rescue his kidnapped friend, the dragon Jilong. Along the way, Pang encounters different African animals and relies on his wits and newfound friendships to complete his mission and save his friends' jungle home.
Richard Close and Karsten Kellerich, known for “The Little Vampire” and “Ruby and Raji,” directed and wrote the film based on their own story. Robert Spackleng, who directed “Gnomeo and Juliet” and “The Queen's Hound,” co-wrote the screenplay.
Pandas in Africa is an international co-production involving Kool Bains & Catoni from Amsterdam, A Film Production from Denmark, Comet Film from Germany, and Le Paquet from France. The film was screened in the official selection at the 2024 Annecy International Film Festival. The film was a major box office success across Europe and the Middle East in June.
This acquisition marks the fourth collaboration between Shout! Studios and CMG, following “The Canterville Ghost,” “Ainbo: Spirit of the Amazon” and “The Little Vampire 3D.” The multi-year deal grants Shout! Studios all North American distribution rights in the United States and Canada, including theatrical, home entertainment and various media platforms.
The deal was negotiated by Jordan Fields, SVP of Acquisitions and Originals at Shout! Studios, and Edward Noltner of CMG and producers.
“We are excited about this new opportunity to partner with Cinema Management Group once again on this incredibly entertaining family film,” said Melissa Boag, Executive Vice President of Family Entertainment at Shout! Studios. “‘Panda Bear in Africa’ has a compelling story, memorable characters and positive messages that will resonate with moviegoers and parents alike.”
“We are truly thrilled to be working again with Melissa, Jordan and the entire amazing team at Shout! Studios on ‘Panda Bear in Africa’ for North America,” added Nollner, President of CMG. “The Shout! Studios team has done an incredible job releasing our previous titles and not only achieved great coverage for each of our films, but also generated great economic returns.”
