As Studio 100 International heads into MIPCOM, it is curating “a diverse catalog of kids and family entertainment, featuring a seamless mix of cherished classics, innovative CGI reboots and fresh, original series,” says Dorian Buehr, head of global distribution.
The company’s constant search for “IPs with broad international appeal” has led to the addition of productions such as DINO MATES, Waiko and BFF, all of which will be brought to buyers at the upcoming market.
Inspired by Europa-Park’s family attraction Madame Freudenreich Curiosités, in which a group of friendly dinosaurs are kept in secret by a grandma, DINO MATES transports 6- to 10-year-olds into an amazing story where the characters deal with everyday issues revolving around social interaction, problem-solving and helping others.
The sci-fi series Waiko, meanwhile, journeys into another world and sees its lead characters—teenage alien Nova, robot Ion and humans Bibi and Otto—work together to help aliens return home safely. It “encourages viewers to embrace the unknown, showing that what we fear can often be understood and welcomed,” Buehr explains. “Nova and her friends approach each extraterrestrial with open minds, helping them without hesitation. Through these characters, the series subtly encourages young viewers to approach the world and its mysteries with openness and empathy.”
BFF, like its title suggests, centers on genuine friendship and belonging and depicts relatable characters and imperfect families. Set in a world of anthropomorphic animals, it follows a trio of friends made up of a clumsy bear, an enthusiastic squirrel and a cool cat, who, “despite their differences, share a deep bond and enjoy each other’s company,” Buehr says.
These brand-new titles fit in nicely with Studio 100 International’s portfolio, which “is rooted in our dedication to creative quality, strong values and powerful storytelling” and also features the timeless IPs Maya the Bee and Heidi, as well as global hits such as Mia and me and 100% Wolf, Buehr notes.
The company also has plenty of programs deep in the development phase. “We’ve established collaborations on new series for younger target groups, including families, from the genres of comedy and adventure, with respected studios and talents like Gigglebug, Karrot Entertainment and Josh Fisher,” Buehr states.
“In recent years, we have carefully surveyed the market to lock in distribution deals for new TV shows inspired by successful comics and novels that have already gained popularity in several regions,” he adds. This includes a partnership with Gaumont and Gingersnap Productions to co-develop Jungle Book: Cub Club Adventures (w.t.), drawing inspiration from Rudyard Kipling’s The Jungle Book.
Though the landscape today is causing buyers to prioritize established brands and known IP that already have recognition, “the need to innovate remains crucial,” Buehr emphasizes. “Developing fresh IPs that feature not only memorable stories and characters but also ones that resonate deeply with audiences is key. Now, more than ever, a standout USP is essential for any IP to break through the noise and achieve lasting success.”
Studio 100 International has filled its catalog with the likes of DINO MATES, Waiko and BFF to satisfy this need and offer buyers new stories with tried-and-true themes. The development of titles such as Jungle Book: Cub Club Adventures (w.t.) complements these by providing buyers with programs that are familiar but also brand-new.And beyond MIPCOM, into the new year? “Studio 100 International’s goals are clear: to keep constantly evolving, stay at the forefront of entertainment trends and deliver content that inspires audiences across generations and platforms,” Buehr says.