At the Unifrance Rendez-vous in Biarritz, the production company Les Valseurs announced that Folivari International has become the exclusive global sales agent for the animated series "Samuel". A true phenomenon in France, Germany, and Spain, "Samuel" has already surpassed 35 million views on arte.tv and social media, captivating a diverse audience and fostering an active community.
Directed by Émilie Tronche, "Samuel" is deeply rooted in a distinct creative vision. Although grounded in French realities, the series tackles universal themes such as childhood and adolescence, life in a small peripheral town, and the subtle expression of emotions through minimalist animation and carefully curated music.
Produced by the French company Les Valseurs, the series was developed in an innovative format that bridges linear broadcasting and social media. "Samuel" resonates with a broad audience, particularly young adults and teenagers, across both traditional television channels and online platforms. It has also made a significant impact on social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, with high levels of audience engagement.
Mélissa Vega, Head of Sales and Acquisitions at Folivari International highlighted the potential of the title: "The success of 'Samuel' in Europe highlights its international potential, and we are excited to work with Les Valseurs to bring it to an even wider audience. With 'Samuel', we have the opportunity to promote high-quality content capable of growing over multiple seasons. We firmly believe in 'Samuel's' potential to become a key transmedia franchise on the global stage," she commented.
By partnering with Folivari International for the global sales of "Samuel", Les Valseurs takes a significant step in their growth strategy. Founded in 2013 by Damien Megherbi and Justin Pechberty, the company has produced several award-winning short films recognized at major festivals, including the Jury Prize at Annecy for "Wicked Girl" and a César for Best Animated Short. Les Valseurs is now actively expanding into feature films and series.
"Samuel" is the first animated series produced by Les Valseurs, broadcast both linearly and digitally in France and Germany on Arte, as well as on Spain’s national broadcaster RTVE and the regional Catalan channel TV3, and their respective platforms. It is also the first animated series to be showcased on TikTok by these channels.
Damien Megherbi, co-founder of Les Valseurs explained the reasons for choosing the distribution company: "We chose Folivari International because we feel closely aligned with Folivari’s DNA and trust their team to unlock the international potential of a unique program like 'Samuel'" "This partnership marks a crucial step in developing a new kind of animated series that will lead to the creation of new IPs with international reach;" commented.
Folivari International plans to present "Samuel" at major international markets in 2024, with a tailored launch strategy for each territory, including careful localization and a comprehensive transmedia plan. The series, which has already demonstrated its universal appeal in Europe, aims to conquer new markets, particularly in North America and Latin America, to further strengthen its global presence.
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