Jetpack Distribution has obtained global rights for New Zealand-based Vinewood Animation’s “Welcome to Cardboard City.” “The series and special has received global critical acclaim, incredible recognition through awards and festivals, and an almost cult following. And it’s easy to see why. Comedy animation is hugely important for the world’s kids and their families right now," Jetpack CEO, Dominic Gardiner, said. "I want everyone to see this show.”
The series has aired on TVNZ in New Zealand and the special has been purchased by various networks across Europe including HBO Europe, NBC Universal, YLE, and RTP. The deal includes seasons one and two, each consisting f 10, 5-minute shows, and the 9-minute special "Fire in Cardboard City" of the comedy animated series. The series aims at children ages six and up.
“Welcome to Cardboard City” is based on the globally successful special short film "Fire in Cardboard City." The series won Best Children’s Television Show at the New Zealand Television Awards 2019. "We came up with a firefighter in a city made of cardboard. We wrote the script for “Fire In Cardboard City” that night. The next day I sat down to animate it," Co-creator Phil Brough said. "A mere five years later, I finished. Much to our surprise, people loved it. The short film traveled the world, won dozens of awards, and spun off into the TV series Welcome to Cardboard City. Amazingly we still love doing it and can't wait to make more."
Each season consists of two story-arcs told in a span of five episodes, with each installment featuring action-based blockbuster comedy stories and dialogue. In Cardboard City giant robots attack, aliens make unwelcome contact and radio-active slime turns ordinary heroes into mega super heroes. The show is made through a combination of 3D animation and motion capture.