Michel Ocelet to direct third Kirikou in 3D and Paris-based animation

Animation veteran Michel Ocelet is to direct Kirikou And Men And Women, a third instalment in his poular Kirikou series.

The new feature will be the first in the franchise to be shot in 3D.

Speaking to Screen, Ocelet described the new film as “memories of Kirikou’s childhood, which at the same time tackle humanity”.

“We are doing the modelling of the heroes. It takes place in a village with a lot of people. The series is becoming more and more serious,” he continued.

Pari- based animation outfit Les Armateurs, who also produced Ocelet’s 1998 animation Kirikou and the Sorceress and 2005’s Kirikou And The Wild Beasts will produce, while StudioCanal distributes in France and is handling international sales.

Ocelet expects the feature to be completed for a Christmas 2012 release.

The acclaimed director also detailed a Paris-based animation story he intends to make with previous production collaborator Nord Ouest Films: “At the same time, I’m preparing a new and original feature taking place in Paris in 1900. Each of my little stories explore the planet but never the city where I live so I thought this time I’m going to celebrate this city. The documentation will be easy. I just have to look thorigh my window”.

Michel Ocelet’s Tales Of The Night is in Competition at the Berlinale.