GFM Animation has acquired Molesworth, the debut feature from animator Uli Meyer, for worldwide sales.
The UK-based firm will also provide production financing for the 2D-animated feature, working with production studio Lupus Films and producers Camilla Deakin and Ruth Fielding.
Molesworth is based on the book series by Geoffrey Willans, illustrated by Ronald Searle. It tells the story of Nigel Molesworth, a self-confident public schoolboy with a mischievous nature and a penchant for daydreams. Matt Lucas will voice the title character.
The film is German animator Meyer’s feature debut as director; he has previously done animation work for films including 1996’s Space Jam, 2018’s Mary Poppins Returns and 2019’s Aladdin.
Molesworth was pitched at Cartoon Movie in 2020; it is also produced by Stephan Roelants for Luxembourg’s Melusine Productions, and Meyer’s London-based Uli Meyer Studios.
“The Molesworth series of books were among my favourites when I was growing up,” said Deakin. “The hilarious humour and wonderful illustrations by Ronald Searle cry out to be adapted as animation.”
“Bringing to life this much-loved character, using Uli Myer’s fabulous 2D skills and great script, creates a great adventure story that we’re confident will appeal to a modern audience worldwide,” said Sean Feeney, head of production at GFM Animation; while Meyer described bringing the characters to screen as “a lifelong dream”.
UK production studio Lupus celebrates its 20th anniversary this year; the company’s credits include 2016’s European Film Awards-nominated Ethel & Ernest, and the upcoming Kensuke’s Kingdom.
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