Marc Dhrami
For over 25 years, Normaal Animation has been a key player in French animation, and today it continues to strengthen its dual editorial strategy. On one side, the company focuses on reimagining classic IPs for new audiences, while on the other it develops original, more artistic content. As Marc Dhrami, Head of Business Development at Normaal Animation, explains, “we have two editorial lines: one is more about adapting classics — we first did ‘Gaston’, then ‘Peanuts’, and now we’re working on ‘Barbapapa’. And then we also have a more artistic line, with original shows like ‘Ella, Oscar & Hoo’ and ‘Woolly Woolly’.”
This year, "Barbapapa" takes the spotlight as the beloved multicolored family celebrates its 55th anniversary. The new series is being developed alongside the original authors’ children, Alice and Thomas Taylor, in collaboration with TF1 and Nickelodeon, YLE, RTS, TELE-QUEBEC. “The good thing with 'Barbapapa' is that it already had everything needed in the in the DNA of the property: community life, family values, and protecting nature. It’s a graphic transgenerational brand and all its unifying values make it relevant today,” Dhrami notes.
In addition to relaunching iconic properties, Normaal is also investing in new creations. Among its upcoming titles is “Kat & Cats”, a comedy-action series for 6–9-year-olds based on a book series, as well as a feature film project inspired by the classic 1960s character “Calimero”. These projects reflect the company’s balanced approach between leveraging known brands and building fresh originals.
Dhrami highlights that while children’s imagination remains timeless, today’s digital environment shapes how they engage with stories. “Small kids are quite the same — whether in the ’60s, ’70s, or today. They want to play and have a great imagination. It’s just that now they live surrounded by a whole digital environment that makes it a bit different.”
Looking at the broader industry, Dhrami acknowledges the turbulence the animation sector is facing. “There’s a slowdown everywhere on the planet. Right after COVID, it was super difficult, and now we’re facing structural changes in the system. The old model is struggling, and the new one is not yet fully in place. We are right in the middle,” he reflects. Still, he emphasizes the continued importance of strong partnerships with national broadcasters as an entry door for kids in a safe and regulated environment as well as adapting production strategies to new forms of consumption.
On the role of technology, Dhrami sees artificial intelligence as a supportive tool rather than a threat. “AI used as a tool by and for artists could be very helpful. It will be integrated into the software and technologies we already use, and I think it will help, especially in CG,” he affirms.
