An A-list cast including Brian Cox, Fiona Shaw, Jodie Whittaker, and Bill Nighy will lend their voices to That Christmas, an animated feature from Netflix penned by Richard Curtis and directed by Simon Otto (How to Train Your Dragon trilogy).
That Christmas is an adaptation of the children’s book series written by Curtis. The pic also marks the directorial debut of animation vet Otto.
Cox voices Santa in the pic. Shaw is Ms. Trapper, Whittaker is Mrs. Williams, and Nighy is Bill, residents of a charming seaside town where things turn upside down one Christmas. The full synopsis reads: That Christmas follows a series of entwined tales about family and friends, love and loneliness, and Santa Claus making a big mistake, not to mention an enormous number of turkeys. Also starring are Lolly Adefope, Alex Macqueen, Katherine Parkinson, Sindhu Vee, India Brown,...
That Christmas is an adaptation of the children’s book series written by Curtis. The pic also marks the directorial debut of animation vet Otto.
Cox voices Santa in the pic. Shaw is Ms. Trapper, Whittaker is Mrs. Williams, and Nighy is Bill, residents of a charming seaside town where things turn upside down one Christmas. The full synopsis reads: That Christmas follows a series of entwined tales about family and friends, love and loneliness, and Santa Claus making a big mistake, not to mention an enormous number of turkeys. Also starring are Lolly Adefope, Alex Macqueen, Katherine Parkinson, Sindhu Vee, India Brown,...
- 3/20/2024
- by Zac Ntim
- Deadline Film + TV
Brian Cox is set to voice Santa Claus in Netflix’s upcoming festive animated feature “That Christmas.”
Due later this year, the film marks the directorial debut of animation veteran Simon Otto and comes from Locksmith Animation (“Ron’s Gone Wrong”). “That Christmas” is adapted from the children’s book series by BAFTA-winning and Oscar-nominated writer and director Richard Curtis.
Alongside Cox, Fiona Shaw, Jodie Whittaker and Bill Nighy have also joined the film as the residents of a charming seaside town where things turn upside down one Christmas. Other voice stars include Lolly Adefope, Alex Macqueen, Katherine Parkinson, Sindhu Vee, India Brown, Zazie Hayhurst, Sienna Sayer, Jack Wisniewski, Rosie Cavaliero, Paul Kaye, Guz Khan, Andy Nyman, Kuhu Agarwal, Bronte Smith, Freddie Spry, Ava Talbot and Rhys Darby.
‘That Christmas’
“Becoming an animator had been on my Christmas wish list ever since I was a child and watching animated movies was...
Due later this year, the film marks the directorial debut of animation veteran Simon Otto and comes from Locksmith Animation (“Ron’s Gone Wrong”). “That Christmas” is adapted from the children’s book series by BAFTA-winning and Oscar-nominated writer and director Richard Curtis.
Alongside Cox, Fiona Shaw, Jodie Whittaker and Bill Nighy have also joined the film as the residents of a charming seaside town where things turn upside down one Christmas. Other voice stars include Lolly Adefope, Alex Macqueen, Katherine Parkinson, Sindhu Vee, India Brown, Zazie Hayhurst, Sienna Sayer, Jack Wisniewski, Rosie Cavaliero, Paul Kaye, Guz Khan, Andy Nyman, Kuhu Agarwal, Bronte Smith, Freddie Spry, Ava Talbot and Rhys Darby.
‘That Christmas’
“Becoming an animator had been on my Christmas wish list ever since I was a child and watching animated movies was...
- 3/20/2024
- by Alex Ritman
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Warner Bros. Motion Picture Group has signed a first-look deal with London- and Los Angeles-based Locksmith Animation to develop and produce animated features for worldwide distribution.
Locksmith is an independent producer of animated features and series and was behind the 20th Century Studios feature Ron’s Gone Wrong. That pic was released theatrically and on Disney+ in 2021.
‘Ron’s Gone Wrong’
The first of Locksmith’s two properties being developed under the new deal is Bad Fairies, a subversive musical comedy set in contemporary London. It focuses on a badass gang of fairies who break every rule in the book. Deborah Frances-White, creator and host of podcast The Guilty Feminist, is writing the screenplay. Megan Nicole Dong, creator and director of Netflix’s animated musical series Centaurworld, is attached to direct.
The second project is The Lunar Chronicles, based on Marissa Meyer’s bestselling novels. A sci-fi twist on Grimms’ Fairy Tales,...
Locksmith is an independent producer of animated features and series and was behind the 20th Century Studios feature Ron’s Gone Wrong. That pic was released theatrically and on Disney+ in 2021.
‘Ron’s Gone Wrong’
The first of Locksmith’s two properties being developed under the new deal is Bad Fairies, a subversive musical comedy set in contemporary London. It focuses on a badass gang of fairies who break every rule in the book. Deborah Frances-White, creator and host of podcast The Guilty Feminist, is writing the screenplay. Megan Nicole Dong, creator and director of Netflix’s animated musical series Centaurworld, is attached to direct.
The second project is The Lunar Chronicles, based on Marissa Meyer’s bestselling novels. A sci-fi twist on Grimms’ Fairy Tales,...
- 6/9/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
In a year in which the film industry was still in disruption because of the formidable powers of digital streaming, stop-motion animation — maybe the most analog of all styles of filmmaking — has had a peak year, with three features vying for awards and shorts introducing powerful new talents. It definitely hasn’t always been like this, but several stop-motion helmers hope the trend continues.
The stop-motion films “Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio,” “Wendell & Wild,” and “Marcel the Shell With Shoes On” were all released in 2022, which is rare since the techniques used to make stop motion can be incredibly detailed and often require dozens of artists to be shooting scenes for the film if it’s ever to be completed in a reasonable amount of time. Add to that the need for, among others, hundreds of replacement faces for the various puppets, clothing made of fabric scaled down for...
The stop-motion films “Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio,” “Wendell & Wild,” and “Marcel the Shell With Shoes On” were all released in 2022, which is rare since the techniques used to make stop motion can be incredibly detailed and often require dozens of artists to be shooting scenes for the film if it’s ever to be completed in a reasonable amount of time. Add to that the need for, among others, hundreds of replacement faces for the various puppets, clothing made of fabric scaled down for...
- 1/10/2023
- by Karen Idelson
- Variety Film + TV
.
“Little Nicolas,” the nostalgic, hand-drawn ode to the popular French children’s book series and its creators — René Goscinny (“Asterix”) and the late illustrator Jean-Jacques Sempé — won the Grand Prize at the fifth annual Animation Is Film Festival (Aif), held last weekend at the Tcl Chinese 6 Theaters in Hollywood. This should help the France-Luxembourg release from directors Amandine Fredon and Benjamin Massoubre secure U.S. distribution.
“My Father’s Dragon” (Cartoon Saloon/Netflix), the 2D adaptation of Ruth Stiles Gannett’s classic children’s book, from Oscar-nominated director Nora Twomey (“The Breadwinner”), took home the Special Jury prize. This provides some heat as Cartoon Saloon chases its fifth Best Animated Feature Oscar nomination.
The Audience Award went to “Aurora’s Sunrise,” the animated documentary from director Inna Sahakyan, which tells the remarkable story of Aurora Mardiganian, who survived the Armenian genocide as a teenager, and came to America, where she...
“Little Nicolas,” the nostalgic, hand-drawn ode to the popular French children’s book series and its creators — René Goscinny (“Asterix”) and the late illustrator Jean-Jacques Sempé — won the Grand Prize at the fifth annual Animation Is Film Festival (Aif), held last weekend at the Tcl Chinese 6 Theaters in Hollywood. This should help the France-Luxembourg release from directors Amandine Fredon and Benjamin Massoubre secure U.S. distribution.
“My Father’s Dragon” (Cartoon Saloon/Netflix), the 2D adaptation of Ruth Stiles Gannett’s classic children’s book, from Oscar-nominated director Nora Twomey (“The Breadwinner”), took home the Special Jury prize. This provides some heat as Cartoon Saloon chases its fifth Best Animated Feature Oscar nomination.
The Audience Award went to “Aurora’s Sunrise,” the animated documentary from director Inna Sahakyan, which tells the remarkable story of Aurora Mardiganian, who survived the Armenian genocide as a teenager, and came to America, where she...
- 10/27/2022
- by Bill Desowitz
- Indiewire
The Producers Guild of America has announced that the 34th Producers Guild Awards will take place at the Beverly Hilton on Feb. 25.
Nominations for documentary motion pictures will be announced Dec. 12; for sports, children’s and short form on Dec. 8, and for theatrical motion pictures, animated motion picture, TV series/specials, streamed or televised motion pictures on Jan. 12.
The Producers Guild recognized films including “Coda,” “Encanto,” “Summer of Soul,” “Ted Lasso,” “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver” and “RuPaul’s Drag Race” at the 2022 ceremony. Also at this year’s event, George Lucas and Kathleen Kennedy were honored with the Milestone Award; Rita Moreno with the Stanley Kramer Award; Mary Parent with the David O. Selznick Achievement Award in Theatrical Motion Pictures; Greg Berlanti with the Norman Lear Achievement Award in Television; and Issa Rae with the Visionary Award.
The Guild will also host East and West Coast Celebrations of the...
Nominations for documentary motion pictures will be announced Dec. 12; for sports, children’s and short form on Dec. 8, and for theatrical motion pictures, animated motion picture, TV series/specials, streamed or televised motion pictures on Jan. 12.
The Producers Guild recognized films including “Coda,” “Encanto,” “Summer of Soul,” “Ted Lasso,” “Last Week Tonight With John Oliver” and “RuPaul’s Drag Race” at the 2022 ceremony. Also at this year’s event, George Lucas and Kathleen Kennedy were honored with the Milestone Award; Rita Moreno with the Stanley Kramer Award; Mary Parent with the David O. Selznick Achievement Award in Theatrical Motion Pictures; Greg Berlanti with the Norman Lear Achievement Award in Television; and Issa Rae with the Visionary Award.
The Guild will also host East and West Coast Celebrations of the...
- 6/3/2022
- by Jazz Tangcay and Clayton Davis
- Variety Film + TV
The London-based CG animation studio Locksmith Animation has appointed Mary Coleman as Chief Creative Officer. Coleman joins Locksmith from Pixar Animation Studios, where she served as Head of Creative Development. She will begin her work at Lsa in July.
During her 23 years at Pixar, Coleman worked closely alongside numerous A-list animation directors—looking to support their vision, from original concept through final draft. Modern classics brought to life there during her tenure included Monsters, Inc., Finding Nemo, The Incredibles, Cars, Ratatouille, Wall-e, Up, Toy Story 3, Cars 2, Brave, Monsters University, Inside Out, The Good Dinosaur, Finding Dory, Cars 3, Coco, Incredibles 2, Toy Story 4, Onward, Soul, Luca and Turning Red.
Coleman is known for helping to launch the careers of such screenwriters as Dan Fogelman (Cars), Michael Arndt (Toy Story 3), Meg Le Fauve (Inside Out) and Kemp Powers (Soul). She was the first woman to participate on Pixar’s Brain Trust,...
During her 23 years at Pixar, Coleman worked closely alongside numerous A-list animation directors—looking to support their vision, from original concept through final draft. Modern classics brought to life there during her tenure included Monsters, Inc., Finding Nemo, The Incredibles, Cars, Ratatouille, Wall-e, Up, Toy Story 3, Cars 2, Brave, Monsters University, Inside Out, The Good Dinosaur, Finding Dory, Cars 3, Coco, Incredibles 2, Toy Story 4, Onward, Soul, Luca and Turning Red.
Coleman is known for helping to launch the careers of such screenwriters as Dan Fogelman (Cars), Michael Arndt (Toy Story 3), Meg Le Fauve (Inside Out) and Kemp Powers (Soul). She was the first woman to participate on Pixar’s Brain Trust,...
- 6/1/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Longtime Pixar stalwart Mary Coleman, who was most recently Head of Creative Development, is now headed to Locksmith Animation as its Chief Creative Officer.
Locksmith, which was founded by former Aardman vets Sarah Smith and Julie Lockhart through funding from Elisabeth Murdoch, released “Ron’s Gone Wrong” in the fall of 2021 via 20th Century and has several projects in development with Warner Bros.
Locksmith CEO Natalie Fischer announced the news Tuesday and confirmed that Coleman officially will join the studio in July.
Also Read:
‘Ron’s Gone Wrong’ Animation Studio Sets Director for 2nd Film ‘That Christmas’ Based on Richard Curtis Books
Coleman spent 23 years at Pixar, having first been recruited by Ed Catmull in 1999 to start its creative development department. (Catmull had known her from her work as the Associate Artistic Director at San Francisco’s Magic Theatre.) At the time Pixar had just released two movies (“Toy Story” and “A Bug’s Life...
Locksmith, which was founded by former Aardman vets Sarah Smith and Julie Lockhart through funding from Elisabeth Murdoch, released “Ron’s Gone Wrong” in the fall of 2021 via 20th Century and has several projects in development with Warner Bros.
Locksmith CEO Natalie Fischer announced the news Tuesday and confirmed that Coleman officially will join the studio in July.
Also Read:
‘Ron’s Gone Wrong’ Animation Studio Sets Director for 2nd Film ‘That Christmas’ Based on Richard Curtis Books
Coleman spent 23 years at Pixar, having first been recruited by Ed Catmull in 1999 to start its creative development department. (Catmull had known her from her work as the Associate Artistic Director at San Francisco’s Magic Theatre.) At the time Pixar had just released two movies (“Toy Story” and “A Bug’s Life...
- 6/1/2022
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
Coleman spent 23 years at animation giant Pixar.
Locksmith Animation, the UK studio behind Disney release Ron’s Gone Wrong, has bolstered its senior team by appointing Pixar executive Mary Coleman as its chief creative officer.
Coleman is a highly respected industry veteran who spent 23 years at the Oscar-winning animation studio behind Toy Story, The Incredibles and Soul, most recently as head of creative development. She will join London-based Locksmith Animation, which has offices in Los Angeles, in July.
Natalie Fischer, CEO of Locksmith, described the appointment as “a milestone in our company’s journey” and praised Coleman’s “keen eye for...
Locksmith Animation, the UK studio behind Disney release Ron’s Gone Wrong, has bolstered its senior team by appointing Pixar executive Mary Coleman as its chief creative officer.
Coleman is a highly respected industry veteran who spent 23 years at the Oscar-winning animation studio behind Toy Story, The Incredibles and Soul, most recently as head of creative development. She will join London-based Locksmith Animation, which has offices in Los Angeles, in July.
Natalie Fischer, CEO of Locksmith, described the appointment as “a milestone in our company’s journey” and praised Coleman’s “keen eye for...
- 6/1/2022
- by Michael Rosser
- ScreenDaily
Locksmith Animation’s “Ron’s Gone Wrong” has won the award for best long form at the British Animation Awards 2022.
Locksmith, which was founded by by Aardman Animations veterans Sarah Smith and Julie Lockhart alongside Elisabeth Murdoch, picked up the award at a ceremony in London on Thursday evening.
The awards took place at London’s BFI Southbank and were presented by comedian Miles Jupp.
Other winners on the night included Magic Light Pictures, for their adaptations of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s “Zog and the Flying Doctors” and Scheffler’s “Pip and Posy,” while production co-ordinator Hodan Abdi picked up the Lamb award, which “bridges the gap between current categories which recognise student achievements and general best-in-class awards, and is open to any young professionals working in the animation and VFX industry.”
And 86-year-old Menna Trussler beat out Taika Waititi, Ricky Gervais and Ben Wishaw to take home the award for best voice performance,...
Locksmith, which was founded by by Aardman Animations veterans Sarah Smith and Julie Lockhart alongside Elisabeth Murdoch, picked up the award at a ceremony in London on Thursday evening.
The awards took place at London’s BFI Southbank and were presented by comedian Miles Jupp.
Other winners on the night included Magic Light Pictures, for their adaptations of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s “Zog and the Flying Doctors” and Scheffler’s “Pip and Posy,” while production co-ordinator Hodan Abdi picked up the Lamb award, which “bridges the gap between current categories which recognise student achievements and general best-in-class awards, and is open to any young professionals working in the animation and VFX industry.”
And 86-year-old Menna Trussler beat out Taika Waititi, Ricky Gervais and Ben Wishaw to take home the award for best voice performance,...
- 3/10/2022
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: BAFTA winning writer-director Sarah Smith has signed with Verve for representation in all areas.
Smith recently wrote, directed, and executive produced Locksmith Animation’s first animated feature, Ron’s Gone Wrong. The film follows Barney (Jack Dylan Grazer) and his dysfunctional robot pal Ron (Zach Galifianakis). The film also includes the voice acting talents of Ed Helms, Olivia Colman, Rob Delaney, and Justice Smith.
Sarah Smith began her career in British television, writing, directing, and producing hit series such as The League of Gentlemen and Fist of Fun. Smith made the move to animation in 2005, along with writer Peter Baynham, to create the adult animated series I am Not an Animal.
Her debut animated feature was the 2012 Arthur Christmas, which she directed and co-wrote Baynham for Aardman Animations. In 2014 she co-founded Locksmith Animation with Julie Lockhart, which is the UK’s only dedicated feature animation studio.
Smith recently wrote, directed, and executive produced Locksmith Animation’s first animated feature, Ron’s Gone Wrong. The film follows Barney (Jack Dylan Grazer) and his dysfunctional robot pal Ron (Zach Galifianakis). The film also includes the voice acting talents of Ed Helms, Olivia Colman, Rob Delaney, and Justice Smith.
Sarah Smith began her career in British television, writing, directing, and producing hit series such as The League of Gentlemen and Fist of Fun. Smith made the move to animation in 2005, along with writer Peter Baynham, to create the adult animated series I am Not an Animal.
Her debut animated feature was the 2012 Arthur Christmas, which she directed and co-wrote Baynham for Aardman Animations. In 2014 she co-founded Locksmith Animation with Julie Lockhart, which is the UK’s only dedicated feature animation studio.
- 2/4/2022
- by Ryan Fleming
- Deadline Film + TV
Locksmith Animation (Ron’s Gone Wrong) has optioned Marissa Meyer’s New York Times bestselling novel series The Lunar Chronicles for film, the London-based CG animation producer announced today.
The series published by Feiwel & Friends is comprised of titles including Cinder (2012), Scarlet (2013), Cress (2014) and Winter (2015), which reimagine the stories of classic fairy tale heroines.
The books are set in a futuristic world, beset by a pandemic, where Earth and its former colony Luna exist in a perpetual state of unrest and tension. In the first book, Cinder, a teenage cyborg of the same name (modeled after Cinderella) deals with her wicked step-mother, finds love and discovers secrets about herself. As the series continues, she forges an alliance with spaceship pilot, Scarlet; imprisoned computer hacker, Cress; and the Lunar princess, Winter. Along with a diverse crew that includes a soldier, a criminal and a royal guard, they must work together to...
The series published by Feiwel & Friends is comprised of titles including Cinder (2012), Scarlet (2013), Cress (2014) and Winter (2015), which reimagine the stories of classic fairy tale heroines.
The books are set in a futuristic world, beset by a pandemic, where Earth and its former colony Luna exist in a perpetual state of unrest and tension. In the first book, Cinder, a teenage cyborg of the same name (modeled after Cinderella) deals with her wicked step-mother, finds love and discovers secrets about herself. As the series continues, she forges an alliance with spaceship pilot, Scarlet; imprisoned computer hacker, Cress; and the Lunar princess, Winter. Along with a diverse crew that includes a soldier, a criminal and a royal guard, they must work together to...
- 1/25/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
“Setting up a studio, working for the first time with our digital partners, throwing in a bit of Brexit, throwing in a huge pandemic, it wasn’t easy,” says Julie Lockhart, one of the producers of the feature animated film “Ron’s Gone Wrong.” The science fiction comedy is the first film to come out of Locksmith Animation, a British CGI animation studio founded by Lockhart and her Aardman Animations collaborator Sarah Smith. It is now available to stream on Disney+ and HBO Max.
Smith co-directed and co-wrote “Ron’s Gone Wrong,” which tells the story of Barney, an awkward middle-schooler and Ron, his new walking, talking, digitally-connected device. Ron’s malfunctions set against the backdrop of the social media age launch them on a journey to learn about true friendship. Lockhart, Smith and co-writer Peter Baynham recently joined Gold Derby for a fun roundtable panel to discuss the making of the...
Smith co-directed and co-wrote “Ron’s Gone Wrong,” which tells the story of Barney, an awkward middle-schooler and Ron, his new walking, talking, digitally-connected device. Ron’s malfunctions set against the backdrop of the social media age launch them on a journey to learn about true friendship. Lockhart, Smith and co-writer Peter Baynham recently joined Gold Derby for a fun roundtable panel to discuss the making of the...
- 1/24/2022
- by Denton Davidson
- Gold Derby
HBO Max will get its hands on Fox’s film slate for one final year — under an unusual deal to share streaming windows with Disney Plus and Hulu for half the studio’s titles, starting with animated family comedy “Ron’s Gone Wrong” next month.
Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution and WarnerMedia amended their current output agreement for films from Fox (renamed 20th Century Studios) on HBO/HBO Max, which runs through the 2022 release year.
It’s a last hurrah for the partnership: The deal is not expected to get renewed, as Disney going forward will keep all 20th Century Studios movies exclusively on its own streaming outlets.
Under the tweaked pact, HBO/HBO Max will share co-exclusive rights with Disney Plus and Hulu to a selection of titles from 20th Century Studios and Searchlight Pictures. HBO/HBO Max will retain pay-one TV window exclusivity on approximately half the slate through 2022.
In addition,...
Disney Media & Entertainment Distribution and WarnerMedia amended their current output agreement for films from Fox (renamed 20th Century Studios) on HBO/HBO Max, which runs through the 2022 release year.
It’s a last hurrah for the partnership: The deal is not expected to get renewed, as Disney going forward will keep all 20th Century Studios movies exclusively on its own streaming outlets.
Under the tweaked pact, HBO/HBO Max will share co-exclusive rights with Disney Plus and Hulu to a selection of titles from 20th Century Studios and Searchlight Pictures. HBO/HBO Max will retain pay-one TV window exclusivity on approximately half the slate through 2022.
In addition,...
- 11/22/2021
- by Todd Spangler
- Variety Film + TV
Disney/20th Century Studios dropped the latest trailer Thursday for “Ron’s Gone Wrong” (October 22 in theaters), which centers on the friendship between the titular malfunctioning robot (voiced by Zach Galifianakis) and socially awkward middle-schooler Barney (voiced by Jack Dylan Graze). It marks the first animated feature from UK-based Locksmith Animation, directed by co-founder Sarah Smith (“Arthur Christmas”) and former Pixar story artist Jean-Philippe Vine (“Cars 3”). Peter Baynham (the “Borat” movies and “Arthur Christmas”) and Smith co-wrote the script with an emphasis on tech frustration and unhealthy dependence on social media.
“Coco” story artist Octavio Rodriguez served as co-director, Julie Lockhart (co-founder and president of Locksmith) produced with Lara Breay (“Penguins of Madagascar”), VFX studio Dneg (“Dune”) made its first animated feature, and the voice cast also includes Olivia Colman (“The Crown”), Ed Helms (“The Office”), Justice Smith (“Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom”), Rob Delaney (“Deadpool 2“), Kylie Cantrall (“Gabby Duran...
“Coco” story artist Octavio Rodriguez served as co-director, Julie Lockhart (co-founder and president of Locksmith) produced with Lara Breay (“Penguins of Madagascar”), VFX studio Dneg (“Dune”) made its first animated feature, and the voice cast also includes Olivia Colman (“The Crown”), Ed Helms (“The Office”), Justice Smith (“Jurassic World: Fallen Kingdom”), Rob Delaney (“Deadpool 2“), Kylie Cantrall (“Gabby Duran...
- 9/9/2021
- by Bill Desowitz
- Indiewire
Locksmith Animation has tapped Simon Otto to direct their adaptation of children’s book series, “That Christmas,” written by acclaimed screenwriter and director Richard Curtis (“Four Weddings and a Funeral”).
Otto is a Visual Effects Society (Ves) Award-winning Head of Character Animation, story artist, character designer and director. He is best known for the “How to Train Your Dragon” trilogy.
“That Christmas”, previously known as The Empty Stocking, will represent his animated feature film directorial debut. It also marks an animation debut for BAFTA Award-winning Curtis.
Written as a series of children’s books, the trilogy is comprised of “The Empty Stocking,” “Snow Day” and “That Christmas,” all set during the holiday season. The film, for which Curtis has also written the screenplay alongside Peter Souter, will combine the stories and set them in a quintessential English seaside town. It has been billed as “‘Love Actually’ for kids.”
“Simon Otto...
Otto is a Visual Effects Society (Ves) Award-winning Head of Character Animation, story artist, character designer and director. He is best known for the “How to Train Your Dragon” trilogy.
“That Christmas”, previously known as The Empty Stocking, will represent his animated feature film directorial debut. It also marks an animation debut for BAFTA Award-winning Curtis.
Written as a series of children’s books, the trilogy is comprised of “The Empty Stocking,” “Snow Day” and “That Christmas,” all set during the holiday season. The film, for which Curtis has also written the screenplay alongside Peter Souter, will combine the stories and set them in a quintessential English seaside town. It has been billed as “‘Love Actually’ for kids.”
“Simon Otto...
- 6/14/2021
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Simon Otto to direct ‘Love Actually’ writer-director Richard Curtis children’s book adaptation ‘That Christmas’.
Simon Otto, best known for his animation work on the How To Train Your Dragon franchise, is to make his feature directorial debut on Locksmith Animation’s That Christmas.
The film, previously known as The Empty Stocking, is based on a trio of children’s books by Love Actually writer/director Richard Curtis and is in development at Locksmith Animation’s studios in London. Curtis is writing the screenplay with Peter Souter.
Swiss-born Otto is known for his work at US animation studio DreamWorks, where...
Simon Otto, best known for his animation work on the How To Train Your Dragon franchise, is to make his feature directorial debut on Locksmith Animation’s That Christmas.
The film, previously known as The Empty Stocking, is based on a trio of children’s books by Love Actually writer/director Richard Curtis and is in development at Locksmith Animation’s studios in London. Curtis is writing the screenplay with Peter Souter.
Swiss-born Otto is known for his work at US animation studio DreamWorks, where...
- 6/14/2021
- by Melissa Kasule
- ScreenDaily
Ves Award-winning How To Train Your Dragon franchise alum Simon Otto has been set to make his animated feature directorial debut on Locksmith Animation’s That Christmas. Based on a trio of children’s books by writer/director Richard Curtis, and previously known as The Empty Stocking, the film is currently in development at Locksmith Animation’s studios in London.
Elisabeth Murdoch, Sarah Smith, Julie Lockhart and Bonnie Arnold are executive producing That Christmas. Curtis is writing the screenplay with Peter Souter and will also exec produce along with Colin Hopkins and the book’s illustrator Rebecca Cobb.
The three Curtis books in the series — The Empty Stocking, Snow Day and That Christmas — tell charming family stories which take place in the run-up to Christmas. The Locksmith film places these stories in a small English beach town and interweaves them to create what the studio describes as “Love Actually for kids.
Elisabeth Murdoch, Sarah Smith, Julie Lockhart and Bonnie Arnold are executive producing That Christmas. Curtis is writing the screenplay with Peter Souter and will also exec produce along with Colin Hopkins and the book’s illustrator Rebecca Cobb.
The three Curtis books in the series — The Empty Stocking, Snow Day and That Christmas — tell charming family stories which take place in the run-up to Christmas. The Locksmith film places these stories in a small English beach town and interweaves them to create what the studio describes as “Love Actually for kids.
- 6/14/2021
- by Nancy Tartaglione
- Deadline Film + TV
Locksmith Animation, the studio behind the upcoming 20th Century Studios release “Ron’s Gone Wrong,” has set Simon Otto as the director for its second feature, a holiday film titled “That Christmas.”
Otto, an animator known for the “How to Train Your Dragon” trilogy, will make his directorial debut on “That Christmas” (previously known as “The Empty Stocking”). The film is based on a trio of children’s Christmas books written by Richard Curtis, the filmmaker known for “Four Weddings and a Funeral” and “Love, Actually.”
The three books in the series (published by Puffin) — “The Empty Stocking,” “Snow Day” and “That Christmas” – tell family stories that take place in the run-up to the holidays. The Locksmith film places these stories in a small English beach town and interweaves them to create what the studio describes as “‘Love, Actually’ for kids.”
“That Christmas” is currently in development at Locksmith Animation studios in London.
Otto, an animator known for the “How to Train Your Dragon” trilogy, will make his directorial debut on “That Christmas” (previously known as “The Empty Stocking”). The film is based on a trio of children’s Christmas books written by Richard Curtis, the filmmaker known for “Four Weddings and a Funeral” and “Love, Actually.”
The three books in the series (published by Puffin) — “The Empty Stocking,” “Snow Day” and “That Christmas” – tell family stories that take place in the run-up to the holidays. The Locksmith film places these stories in a small English beach town and interweaves them to create what the studio describes as “‘Love, Actually’ for kids.”
“That Christmas” is currently in development at Locksmith Animation studios in London.
- 6/14/2021
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Locksmith Animation has named Natalie Fischer as CEO as the London-based company gears up for the October release of its first feature, Ron’s Gone Wrong. Fischer is a former COO of Illumination Entertainment and has been a senior adviser there for the past four years. At the same time, Locksmith Co-Founder and Ron’s Gone Wrong producer Julie Lockhart has been appointed President of Production and will continue to lead all aspects of production and development as well as partnering with Fischer at a strategic level.
Co-Founder Sarah Smith, who wrote and directed Ron’s Gone Wrong, has stepped down from her role at the studio to concentrate on developing her own creative projects. Ron’s Gone Wrong will be released by Disney on October 22.
Locksmith, also co-founded by Elisabeth Murdoch, is currently in production on That Christmas (formerly known as The Empty Stocking), a holiday film based on the children’s book...
Co-Founder Sarah Smith, who wrote and directed Ron’s Gone Wrong, has stepped down from her role at the studio to concentrate on developing her own creative projects. Ron’s Gone Wrong will be released by Disney on October 22.
Locksmith, also co-founded by Elisabeth Murdoch, is currently in production on That Christmas (formerly known as The Empty Stocking), a holiday film based on the children’s book...
- 6/10/2021
- by Nancy Tartaglione
- Deadline Film + TV
Appointment follows the departure of co-founder Sarah Smith.
Locksmith Animation, the UK studio co-founded by Elisabeth Murdoch, has hired Natalie Fischer as CEO of the company following the departure of co-founder Sarah Smith.
Fischer was formerly COO of Illumination Entertainment, the US animation studio behind the Despicable Me and Secret Life Of Pets franchises, and joins Locksmith ahead of the October release of its first feature, Ron’s Gone Wrong.
Smith, writer and director of Ron’s Gone Wrong, has stepped down to “concentrate on developing her own creative projects”, seven years after co-founding the company in 2014.
Co-founder Julie Lockhart has been...
Locksmith Animation, the UK studio co-founded by Elisabeth Murdoch, has hired Natalie Fischer as CEO of the company following the departure of co-founder Sarah Smith.
Fischer was formerly COO of Illumination Entertainment, the US animation studio behind the Despicable Me and Secret Life Of Pets franchises, and joins Locksmith ahead of the October release of its first feature, Ron’s Gone Wrong.
Smith, writer and director of Ron’s Gone Wrong, has stepped down to “concentrate on developing her own creative projects”, seven years after co-founding the company in 2014.
Co-founder Julie Lockhart has been...
- 6/10/2021
- by Michael Rosser
- ScreenDaily
Natalie Fischer–a former COO of Illumination Entertainment–has been named CEO of UK-based Locksmith Animation, succeeding co-founder Sarah Smith, director (alongside Jean-Philippe Vine) and co-writer of Locksmith’s first animated feature, Ron’s Gone Wrong. Smith has stepped down from her role at the studio to “concentrate on developing her own creative projects,” according to Thursday’s announcement.
Additionally, co-founder and Ron’s Gone Wrong producer Julie Lockhart has been named president of production at Locksmith.
Ron’s Gone Wrong–which follows awkward teen Barney, voiced by Jack Dylan Grazer, and his talking, digitally-connected device voiced by Zack Galifianakis–is scheduled to ...
Additionally, co-founder and Ron’s Gone Wrong producer Julie Lockhart has been named president of production at Locksmith.
Ron’s Gone Wrong–which follows awkward teen Barney, voiced by Jack Dylan Grazer, and his talking, digitally-connected device voiced by Zack Galifianakis–is scheduled to ...
- 6/10/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Natalie Fischer–a former COO of Illumination Entertainment–has been named CEO of UK-based Locksmith Animation, succeeding co-founder Sarah Smith, director (alongside Jean-Philippe Vine) and co-writer of Locksmith’s first animated feature, Ron’s Gone Wrong. Smith has stepped down from her role at the studio to “concentrate on developing her own creative projects,” according to Thursday’s announcement.
Additionally, co-founder and Ron’s Gone Wrong producer Julie Lockhart has been named president of production at Locksmith.
Ron’s Gone Wrong–which follows awkward teen Barney, voiced by Jack Dylan Grazer, and his talking, digitally-connected device voiced by Zack Galifianakis–is scheduled to ...
Additionally, co-founder and Ron’s Gone Wrong producer Julie Lockhart has been named president of production at Locksmith.
Ron’s Gone Wrong–which follows awkward teen Barney, voiced by Jack Dylan Grazer, and his talking, digitally-connected device voiced by Zack Galifianakis–is scheduled to ...
- 6/10/2021
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
20th Century Studios just dropped the trailer for its new animated feature “Ron’s Gone Wrong,” and you might think at first you’re watching a preroll advertisement.
That’s because the trailer opens with a commercial for B*Bot, a digital sidekick that can seemingly do anything. Young Barney (voiced by Jack Dylan Grazer) is thrilled when he thinks he gets a B*Bot as a belated birthday gift. But he ends up with a faulty version named Ron.
Ron is voiced by Zach Galifianakis and looks like a cross between Baymax from “Big Hero 6” and a Minion from “Despicable Me.” He’s anything but despicable though; his flaws — including a glitchy display and occasional strangling of chickens (you have to watch) — make him utterly adorable.
The official description of the film reads: “Ron’s Gone Wrong” is the story of Barney, a socially awkward middle-schooler and Ron, his new walking,...
That’s because the trailer opens with a commercial for B*Bot, a digital sidekick that can seemingly do anything. Young Barney (voiced by Jack Dylan Grazer) is thrilled when he thinks he gets a B*Bot as a belated birthday gift. But he ends up with a faulty version named Ron.
Ron is voiced by Zach Galifianakis and looks like a cross between Baymax from “Big Hero 6” and a Minion from “Despicable Me.” He’s anything but despicable though; his flaws — including a glitchy display and occasional strangling of chickens (you have to watch) — make him utterly adorable.
The official description of the film reads: “Ron’s Gone Wrong” is the story of Barney, a socially awkward middle-schooler and Ron, his new walking,...
- 6/8/2021
- by Lawrence Yee
- The Wrap
The feature animation is “aimed at streaming platforms”.
Love Actually writer-director Richard Curtis is to adapt his own series of Christmas-themed children’s books into an animated feature titled The Empty Stocking for UK studio Locksmith Animation.
Curtis will co-write the screenplay with Peter Souter. A director has yet to be attached.
Locksmith Animation, the UK studio run by Sarah Smith and Julie Lockhart and co-founded with Elisabeth Murdoch, recently signed a multi-film theatrical distribution deal with Warner Bros Pictures.
The feature has been earmarked for streaming platforms so falls outside this deal and talks are underway with potential distribution partners.
Love Actually writer-director Richard Curtis is to adapt his own series of Christmas-themed children’s books into an animated feature titled The Empty Stocking for UK studio Locksmith Animation.
Curtis will co-write the screenplay with Peter Souter. A director has yet to be attached.
Locksmith Animation, the UK studio run by Sarah Smith and Julie Lockhart and co-founded with Elisabeth Murdoch, recently signed a multi-film theatrical distribution deal with Warner Bros Pictures.
The feature has been earmarked for streaming platforms so falls outside this deal and talks are underway with potential distribution partners.
- 11/6/2019
- by 1100453¦Michael Rosser¦9¦
- ScreenDaily
Love, Actually writer/director Richard Curtis has teamed with Locksmith Animation for an animated feature based on his Christmas children’s books.
Curtis, who also wrote Four Weddings and a Funeral and Yesterday, is writing The Empty Stocking with Peter Souter (Married Single Other). Bonnie Arnold (How to Train Your Dragon) is producing along with Locksmith heads Sarah Smith and Julie Lockhart. Illustrator Rebecca Cobb and executive Colin Hopkins are also on board.
The three books, The Empty Stocking, Snow Day and the forthcoming That Christmas, tell a charming family story which takes place in the run up to Christmas, in a rural coastal town based on Curtis’s home. The stories will be interwoven to create what Locksmith describes as “Love Actually for kids.”
“It’s been such a pleasure writing these books – with Rebecca Cobb’s wonderful drawings – that I’m thrilled about the idea of turning them into a film,...
Curtis, who also wrote Four Weddings and a Funeral and Yesterday, is writing The Empty Stocking with Peter Souter (Married Single Other). Bonnie Arnold (How to Train Your Dragon) is producing along with Locksmith heads Sarah Smith and Julie Lockhart. Illustrator Rebecca Cobb and executive Colin Hopkins are also on board.
The three books, The Empty Stocking, Snow Day and the forthcoming That Christmas, tell a charming family story which takes place in the run up to Christmas, in a rural coastal town based on Curtis’s home. The stories will be interwoven to create what Locksmith describes as “Love Actually for kids.”
“It’s been such a pleasure writing these books – with Rebecca Cobb’s wonderful drawings – that I’m thrilled about the idea of turning them into a film,...
- 11/6/2019
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
U.K. studio Locksmith is creating “The Empty Stocking,” an animated feature based on a series of Richard Curtis-penned children’s books.
Veteran producer Bonnie Arnold (“How to Train Your Dragon”) will oversee the project, which will be for release on digital platforms. She will work alongside Locksmith chiefs Sarah Smith and Julie Lockhart.
Locksmith is partnering on the feature with Curtis and his team, which includes illustrator Rebecca Cobb, executive Colin Hopkins, and writer Peter Souter, who will pen the screenplay.
The three books in Curtis’ Puffin-published series are “The Empty Stocking,” “Snow Day,” and the forthcoming “That Christmas.” Each tells a family story that takes place in the run up to Christmas, in a rural coastal town based on Curtis’s home. The trio of stories will be interwoven for the feature.
This will mark the first animated film project for Curtis. “It’s been such a...
Veteran producer Bonnie Arnold (“How to Train Your Dragon”) will oversee the project, which will be for release on digital platforms. She will work alongside Locksmith chiefs Sarah Smith and Julie Lockhart.
Locksmith is partnering on the feature with Curtis and his team, which includes illustrator Rebecca Cobb, executive Colin Hopkins, and writer Peter Souter, who will pen the screenplay.
The three books in Curtis’ Puffin-published series are “The Empty Stocking,” “Snow Day,” and the forthcoming “That Christmas.” Each tells a family story that takes place in the run up to Christmas, in a rural coastal town based on Curtis’s home. The trio of stories will be interwoven for the feature.
This will mark the first animated film project for Curtis. “It’s been such a...
- 11/6/2019
- by Stewart Clarke
- Variety Film + TV
Aardman’s stop-motion japes have long been a proud export but British animation has been fighting the Hollywood tide. Can a bold new studio shift the balance?
Could British animation be on the verge of a new golden age? Warner Bros appears to think so: it has announced a multi-picture deal with Locksmith Animation, co-founded by Elisabeth Murdoch with Arthur Christmas director Sarah Smith and Shaun the Sheep Movie producer Julie Lockhart.
Locksmith is a sought-after outfit: its first film, Ron’s Gone Wrong, is in production under a previous deal with 20th Century Fox; however, the takeover of the latter by Disney appears to have prompted the switch to Warner Bros.
Could British animation be on the verge of a new golden age? Warner Bros appears to think so: it has announced a multi-picture deal with Locksmith Animation, co-founded by Elisabeth Murdoch with Arthur Christmas director Sarah Smith and Shaun the Sheep Movie producer Julie Lockhart.
Locksmith is a sought-after outfit: its first film, Ron’s Gone Wrong, is in production under a previous deal with 20th Century Fox; however, the takeover of the latter by Disney appears to have prompted the switch to Warner Bros.
- 11/1/2019
- by Sam Briggs
- The Guardian - Film News
Warner Bros. Pictures has entered into a multi-film deal with Locksmith Animation, the UK-based feature animation studio co-founded by Elisabeth Murdoch. The partnership was announced Thursday by Toby Emmerich, chairman of Warner Bros. Pictures Group and Courtenay Valenti, president production and development at Warner Bros. Pictures along with Locksmith’s Co-CEO’s Sarah Smith and Julie Lockhart.
The deal covers the development and production of family animated features for worldwide theatrical distribution by Warner Bros. Locksmith will collaborate closely with Allison Abbate, Evp of Warner Animation Group, to add a fresh to complement the studio’s current animated projects. Locksmith previously had a deal with Disney.
“In recent years, animation has become a tremendously important part of our slate, and this deal with Locksmith dovetails perfectly with our forward-going plans,” Emmerich and Valenti said in a statement. “We love Sarah and Julie’s sensibilities and work, and look forward to...
The deal covers the development and production of family animated features for worldwide theatrical distribution by Warner Bros. Locksmith will collaborate closely with Allison Abbate, Evp of Warner Animation Group, to add a fresh to complement the studio’s current animated projects. Locksmith previously had a deal with Disney.
“In recent years, animation has become a tremendously important part of our slate, and this deal with Locksmith dovetails perfectly with our forward-going plans,” Emmerich and Valenti said in a statement. “We love Sarah and Julie’s sensibilities and work, and look forward to...
- 10/31/2019
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
The deal replaces a previous agreement with 20th Century Fox.
Locksmith Animation, the UK studio co-founded by Elisabeth Murdoch, has signed a multi-film deal with Warner Bros Pictures. The pact will see Warner Bros. co-develop and distribute Locksmith’s slate of films.
The deal covers the development and production of family animated features for worldwide theatrical distribution by Warner Bros. Pictures.
Locksmith will work with Allison Abbate, executive vice president of Warner Animation Group, in delivering its work.
This new arrangement takes the place of a previous deal Locksmith had with 20th Century Fox, which has come to an end...
Locksmith Animation, the UK studio co-founded by Elisabeth Murdoch, has signed a multi-film deal with Warner Bros Pictures. The pact will see Warner Bros. co-develop and distribute Locksmith’s slate of films.
The deal covers the development and production of family animated features for worldwide theatrical distribution by Warner Bros. Pictures.
Locksmith will work with Allison Abbate, executive vice president of Warner Animation Group, in delivering its work.
This new arrangement takes the place of a previous deal Locksmith had with 20th Century Fox, which has come to an end...
- 10/31/2019
- by 1101321¦Ben Dalton¦26¦
- ScreenDaily
Warner Bros Pictures has signed a multi-film pact with UK studio Locksmith Animation after the latter’s deal with 20th Century Fox ended prematurely earlier this year.
Toby Emmerich, Chairman, Warner Bros. Pictures Group, and Courtenay Valenti, President Production and Development, Warner Bros. Pictures, announced the deal with Sarah Smith and Julie Lockhart, Co-CEOs of Locksmith.
Locksmith was founded in 2014 by Bafta-winning writer and producer Sarah Smith, producer Julie Lockhart, together with Elisabeth Murdoch. The company initially signed a deal with Fox in 2017, but the pact was a casualty of the Disney take-over and ended earlier this year.
The studio’s debut feature Ron’s Gone Wrong is not covered by the new Warner Bros deal. The feature is currently in production and will be released by Disney, which took the project on following the House of Mouse’s acquisition of Fox’s entertainment assets. Pic is due in late...
Toby Emmerich, Chairman, Warner Bros. Pictures Group, and Courtenay Valenti, President Production and Development, Warner Bros. Pictures, announced the deal with Sarah Smith and Julie Lockhart, Co-CEOs of Locksmith.
Locksmith was founded in 2014 by Bafta-winning writer and producer Sarah Smith, producer Julie Lockhart, together with Elisabeth Murdoch. The company initially signed a deal with Fox in 2017, but the pact was a casualty of the Disney take-over and ended earlier this year.
The studio’s debut feature Ron’s Gone Wrong is not covered by the new Warner Bros deal. The feature is currently in production and will be released by Disney, which took the project on following the House of Mouse’s acquisition of Fox’s entertainment assets. Pic is due in late...
- 10/31/2019
- by Tom Grater
- Deadline Film + TV
Warner Bros has inked multi-film pact with Locksmith Animation to co-develop and distribute the slate of films in the works at the UK-based studio.
The animation house run by co-CEOs Sarah Smith and Julie Lockhart and co-founded by Elisabeth Murdoch is currently working on its first feature, Ron’s Gone Wrong, which will be released by Disney. The WB deal covers the development and production of family animated features for worldwide theatrical distribution by Warner Bros Pictures.
Warners said Locksmith will collaborate with Warner Animation Group Evp Allison Abbate to complement the studio’s current work. That unit’s upcoming slate includes Scoob, due in 2020, and Tom & Jerry and Space Jam 2 in 2021.
“In recent years, animation has become a tremendously important part of our slate, and this deal with Locksmith dovetails perfectly with our forward-going plans,” said Toby Emmerich, chairman, Warner Bros. Pictures Group, and Courtenay Valenti, President Production and Development,...
The animation house run by co-CEOs Sarah Smith and Julie Lockhart and co-founded by Elisabeth Murdoch is currently working on its first feature, Ron’s Gone Wrong, which will be released by Disney. The WB deal covers the development and production of family animated features for worldwide theatrical distribution by Warner Bros Pictures.
Warners said Locksmith will collaborate with Warner Animation Group Evp Allison Abbate to complement the studio’s current work. That unit’s upcoming slate includes Scoob, due in 2020, and Tom & Jerry and Space Jam 2 in 2021.
“In recent years, animation has become a tremendously important part of our slate, and this deal with Locksmith dovetails perfectly with our forward-going plans,” said Toby Emmerich, chairman, Warner Bros. Pictures Group, and Courtenay Valenti, President Production and Development,...
- 10/31/2019
- by Patrick Hipes
- Deadline Film + TV
Warner Bros. Pictures has signed a multi-film pact with Locksmith Animation, the British studio co-founded by Elisabeth Murdoch, to co-develop and distribute its slate of pictures. The deal covers the development and production of family-oriented features for worldwide theatrical distribution by Warner.
Locksmith said it will collaborate closely with Allison Abbate, Evp, Warner Animation Group to add a fresh voice to complement the Studio’s current animation activities. The London-based animation outfit previously had a deal with Disney.
“In recent years, animation has become a tremendously important part of our slate, and this deal with Locksmith dovetails perfectly with our forward-going plans,” said Toby Emmerich, Chairman, Warner Bros. Pictures Group, and Courtenay Valenti, president production and development, Warner Bros. Pictures. “We love Sarah and Julie’s sensibilities and work, and look forward to working with them to create titles that will enchant today’s audiences and become classics for future generations of animation lovers.
Locksmith said it will collaborate closely with Allison Abbate, Evp, Warner Animation Group to add a fresh voice to complement the Studio’s current animation activities. The London-based animation outfit previously had a deal with Disney.
“In recent years, animation has become a tremendously important part of our slate, and this deal with Locksmith dovetails perfectly with our forward-going plans,” said Toby Emmerich, Chairman, Warner Bros. Pictures Group, and Courtenay Valenti, president production and development, Warner Bros. Pictures. “We love Sarah and Julie’s sensibilities and work, and look forward to working with them to create titles that will enchant today’s audiences and become classics for future generations of animation lovers.
- 10/31/2019
- by Stewart Clarke
- Variety Film + TV
Warner Bros. Pictures has signed a multi-film pact with Locksmith Animation, the U.K. computer-generated feature film studio, to co-develop and distribute its slate of animated movies.
The deal covers the development and production of family animated features for worldwide theatrical distribution by Warner Bros. Pictures as it bolsters its slate of family movie titles. Locksmith previously had a multi-year production partnership with 20th Century Fox Film, before that studio's sale to Walt Disney.
The company was founded in 2014 by former Aardman executives Julie Lockhart (Shaun the Sheep, Pirates! Band of Misfits) and Sarah Smith (Arthur Christmas), along ...
The deal covers the development and production of family animated features for worldwide theatrical distribution by Warner Bros. Pictures as it bolsters its slate of family movie titles. Locksmith previously had a multi-year production partnership with 20th Century Fox Film, before that studio's sale to Walt Disney.
The company was founded in 2014 by former Aardman executives Julie Lockhart (Shaun the Sheep, Pirates! Band of Misfits) and Sarah Smith (Arthur Christmas), along ...
- 10/31/2019
- The Hollywood Reporter - Film + TV
Warner Bros. Pictures has signed a multi-film pact with Locksmith Animation, the U.K. computer-generated feature film studio, to co-develop and distribute its slate of animated movies.
The deal covers the development and production of family animated features for worldwide theatrical distribution by Warner Bros. Pictures as it bolsters its slate of family movie titles. Locksmith previously had a multi-year production partnership with 20th Century Fox Film, before that studio's sale to Walt Disney.
The company was founded in 2014 by former Aardman executives Julie Lockhart (Shaun the Sheep, Pirates! Band of Misfits) and Sarah Smith (Arthur Christmas), along ...
The deal covers the development and production of family animated features for worldwide theatrical distribution by Warner Bros. Pictures as it bolsters its slate of family movie titles. Locksmith previously had a multi-year production partnership with 20th Century Fox Film, before that studio's sale to Walt Disney.
The company was founded in 2014 by former Aardman executives Julie Lockhart (Shaun the Sheep, Pirates! Band of Misfits) and Sarah Smith (Arthur Christmas), along ...
- 10/31/2019
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Annecy, France — Five years ago Sarah Smith and Julie Lockhart founded Locksmith Animation. Smith was coming off her feature directorial debut on Aardman Animations’ “Arthur Christmas.” Lockhart was a long-time Aardman producer whose credits include Oscar-nominated fare such as “Shaun the Sheep” and “The Pirates! Band of Misfits.”
Oh Thursday afternoon the two now-studio heads, along with an impressive roster of their in-house talent, held their first official Annecy presentation: Locksmith Animation: A New Studio Finds Its Voice.
“We’ve kept a low profile,” said Smith. “As a new company we are aware how long it takes to have anything to show, and next year will be our first work in progress for our first film.”
Although this was the studio’s first official presentation at Annecy, Lock and Smith have attended the festival in the past. In fact, Smith has used the festival as a hunting ground for talent.
Oh Thursday afternoon the two now-studio heads, along with an impressive roster of their in-house talent, held their first official Annecy presentation: Locksmith Animation: A New Studio Finds Its Voice.
“We’ve kept a low profile,” said Smith. “As a new company we are aware how long it takes to have anything to show, and next year will be our first work in progress for our first film.”
Although this was the studio’s first official presentation at Annecy, Lock and Smith have attended the festival in the past. In fact, Smith has used the festival as a hunting ground for talent.
- 6/15/2019
- by Jamie Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Red Arrow Studios International has sold neo-noir crime drama Stella Blómkvist to AMC Networks’ Sundance Now. The series has also been recommissioned for a second season by Síminn in Iceland. Produced by Sagafilm for Síminn and Viaplay, the series has been picked up by AMC Networks’ Sundance Now Svod platform for North America, the UK, Australia and New Zealand. Shirley Bowers, VP Sales and Acquisitions for North America, Australia and New Zealand at Red Arrow Studios International concluded the deal with Sundance Now. The show stars Heida Reed (Poldark) as a quick-witted lawyer with a dark past, a fluid sexuality and a taste for whiskey and cases that lead to danger.
UK outfit Locksmith Animation has appointed Dónall Crehan as Chief Business Officer. Crehan will oversee the company’s legal and business affairs, business strategy and development, commercial operations and the implementation of its long and short-term strategic plans. He...
UK outfit Locksmith Animation has appointed Dónall Crehan as Chief Business Officer. Crehan will oversee the company’s legal and business affairs, business strategy and development, commercial operations and the implementation of its long and short-term strategic plans. He...
- 1/30/2019
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Festival to feature screenings and a busy industry programme.
A masterclass from UK feature animation studio Locksmith Animation is one of the highlights of the fourth annual Manchester Animation Festival (Maf), which runs from November 13-15.
Julie Lockhart, Sarah Smith and Elisabeth Murdoch’s London-based company opened its doors earlier this year. It has a first-look deal with 20th Century Fox for projects including Ron’s Gone Wrong, which is now in production.
Maf will take place at Manchester’s Home cinema. The programme includes an animated short competition, screenings of new features, retrospective screenings, workshops and networking events. Panel...
A masterclass from UK feature animation studio Locksmith Animation is one of the highlights of the fourth annual Manchester Animation Festival (Maf), which runs from November 13-15.
Julie Lockhart, Sarah Smith and Elisabeth Murdoch’s London-based company opened its doors earlier this year. It has a first-look deal with 20th Century Fox for projects including Ron’s Gone Wrong, which is now in production.
Maf will take place at Manchester’s Home cinema. The programme includes an animated short competition, screenings of new features, retrospective screenings, workshops and networking events. Panel...
- 9/27/2018
- by Ben Dalton
- ScreenDaily
Festival to feature screenings and a busy industry programme.
A masterclass from UK feature animation studio Locksmith Animation is one of the highlights of this year’s Manchester Animation Festival (Maf), which runs from November 13-15.
Julie Lockhart, Sarah Smith and Elisabeth Murdoch’s London-based company opened its doors earlier this year. It has a first-look deal with 20th Century Fox for projects including Ron’s Gone Wrong, which is now in production.
Maf, which will take place at Manchester’s Home cinema, is also hosting a selection of panel and discussion events including ‘Animated Women UK’, which aims to...
A masterclass from UK feature animation studio Locksmith Animation is one of the highlights of this year’s Manchester Animation Festival (Maf), which runs from November 13-15.
Julie Lockhart, Sarah Smith and Elisabeth Murdoch’s London-based company opened its doors earlier this year. It has a first-look deal with 20th Century Fox for projects including Ron’s Gone Wrong, which is now in production.
Maf, which will take place at Manchester’s Home cinema, is also hosting a selection of panel and discussion events including ‘Animated Women UK’, which aims to...
- 9/27/2018
- by Ben Dalton
- ScreenDaily
The company wants to make films about “the lives of kids today”.
Locksmith Animation, the new feature digital animation company co-founded by Julie Lockhart, Sarah Smith and Elisabeth Murdoch, officially opened its doors and revealed a few more details of its ambitious slate at an opening party in London on Monday.
The company’s new 5,000 sq-foot animation studio in Primrose Hill, northwest London, will house more than 70 artists, staff and crew.
Locksmith, which has a worldwide multi-picture output deal with 20th Century Fox, is already in production on its first project Ron’s Gone Wrong, which is slated for a November 2020 release.
Locksmith Animation, the new feature digital animation company co-founded by Julie Lockhart, Sarah Smith and Elisabeth Murdoch, officially opened its doors and revealed a few more details of its ambitious slate at an opening party in London on Monday.
The company’s new 5,000 sq-foot animation studio in Primrose Hill, northwest London, will house more than 70 artists, staff and crew.
Locksmith, which has a worldwide multi-picture output deal with 20th Century Fox, is already in production on its first project Ron’s Gone Wrong, which is slated for a November 2020 release.
- 3/27/2018
- by Louise Tutt
- ScreenDaily
The latest major entry into the world of high-end CG animation has officially opened the doors to its new studio.
Locksmith Animation, which already has a three-picture deal with 20th Century Fox, formally opened its facilities in London's plush Primrose Hill neighborhood on Monday, with co-founders Elisabeth Murdoch, Sarah Smith and Julie Lockhart on hand to welcome guests, who included Cate Blanchett.
"We are creating the next global animation powerhouse in the U.K.," said Murdoch, who teamed up with former Aardman Animation executives Smith (Arthur Christmas) and Lockhart (Shaun the Sheep) to create Locksmith four years ago after leaving TV...
Locksmith Animation, which already has a three-picture deal with 20th Century Fox, formally opened its facilities in London's plush Primrose Hill neighborhood on Monday, with co-founders Elisabeth Murdoch, Sarah Smith and Julie Lockhart on hand to welcome guests, who included Cate Blanchett.
"We are creating the next global animation powerhouse in the U.K.," said Murdoch, who teamed up with former Aardman Animation executives Smith (Arthur Christmas) and Lockhart (Shaun the Sheep) to create Locksmith four years ago after leaving TV...
- 3/27/2018
- by Alex Ritman
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
UK animation firm Locksmith Studio, which is fronted by Arthur Christmas director Sarah Smith, Shaun The Sheep Movie producer Julie Lockhart and media exec Elisabeth Murdoch, celebrated the official opening of its production complex in London last night. The 5,000 square-foot Primrose Hill studio, which is spread across three floors, will be home to 70 artists, staff and crew and is the first dedicated CG-feature studio of its kind in the UK. Locksmith is in part backed…...
- 3/27/2018
- Deadline
Simon Brew Sep 21, 2017
Locksmith Animation will be making animated movies for 20th Century Fox in London...
We’ve been following the story of Locksmith Animation for some time now. The company was set up in 2014 to make high end CG animated features in the UK. The people behind it are long-time Aardman producer Julie Lockhart, Arthur Christmas writer/director Sarah Smith and Elisabeth Murdoch.
Previously, it looked as if Locksmith was going to making its film for Paramount Pictures. But yesterday, it was announced that the studio had entered into a deal with 20th Century Fox. This makes sense, too. Fox’s agreement to distribute DreamWorks Animation movies came to an end with the wonderful Captain Underpants, and whilst it still has a pipeline of films through Blue Sky Studios – Ferdinand is next – it has capacity for more movies on its slate.
Locksmith Animation will thus be aiming to release...
Locksmith Animation will be making animated movies for 20th Century Fox in London...
We’ve been following the story of Locksmith Animation for some time now. The company was set up in 2014 to make high end CG animated features in the UK. The people behind it are long-time Aardman producer Julie Lockhart, Arthur Christmas writer/director Sarah Smith and Elisabeth Murdoch.
Previously, it looked as if Locksmith was going to making its film for Paramount Pictures. But yesterday, it was announced that the studio had entered into a deal with 20th Century Fox. This makes sense, too. Fox’s agreement to distribute DreamWorks Animation movies came to an end with the wonderful Captain Underpants, and whilst it still has a pipeline of films through Blue Sky Studios – Ferdinand is next – it has capacity for more movies on its slate.
Locksmith Animation will thus be aiming to release...
- 9/21/2017
- Den of Geek
Twentieth Century Fox Film and Locksmith Animation have entered into a multi-year production partnership to release one animated film every year to 18 months. The U.K. based studio will develop and produce projects completely there and Locksmith partner Double Negative providing digital production. That product will then be released by Fox. Locksmith Animation co-CEOs Sarah Smith and Julie Lockhart formed the studio in 2014 with the support of co-founder Elisabeth…...
- 9/20/2017
- Deadline
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Britain's first high-end CG feature animation studio is making three films with Paramount Pictures...
Now this is exciting.
It’s been a few years since Sarah Smith – director of Arthur Christmas – confirmed to us that she was in the infancy of setting up a big new British animation studio. Locksmith Animation launched in 2014, and has been developing projects since then. And now, there’s big progress, as it’s inked a deal with Paramount Pictures to make a series of CG animated movies.
Three films are in the works at the moment, the first of which will go into production in the next year. The unnamed project will be released in 2020, and the aim is to continue with an ongoing slate of films beyond that.
Locksmith – named after its founders Sarah Smith and Shaun The Sheep: The Movie producer Julie Lockhart – will be Britain’s first...
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Britain's first high-end CG feature animation studio is making three films with Paramount Pictures...
Now this is exciting.
It’s been a few years since Sarah Smith – director of Arthur Christmas – confirmed to us that she was in the infancy of setting up a big new British animation studio. Locksmith Animation launched in 2014, and has been developing projects since then. And now, there’s big progress, as it’s inked a deal with Paramount Pictures to make a series of CG animated movies.
Three films are in the works at the moment, the first of which will go into production in the next year. The unnamed project will be released in 2020, and the aim is to continue with an ongoing slate of films beyond that.
Locksmith – named after its founders Sarah Smith and Shaun The Sheep: The Movie producer Julie Lockhart – will be Britain’s first...
- 5/5/2016
- Den of Geek
Paramount Pictures has entered a multi-picture deal with Elisabeth Murdoch‘s Locksmith Animation, the companies jointly announced Wednesday. Under the agreement, Paramount and Locksmith will co-develop and co-produce a series of animated projects for the studio and are progressing three current properties which Locksmith has been developing since 2014. These projects plan to head into production within the next twelve months, and they plan to have their first theatrical film in theaters in 2020. Locksmith Animation is the United Kingdom’s first high-end CG feature animation studio, founded by writer/director Sarah Smith (“Arthur Christmas”) and producer Julie Lockhart (“Shaun the Sheep Movie”). It.
- 5/4/2016
- by Beatrice Verhoeven
- The Wrap
Locksmith Animation, the UK production banner founded in 2014 by Julie Lockhart and Sarah Smith with financial backing from Elisabeth Murdoch, has a closed a co-development and co-production deal with Paramount Pictures. Under the pact, the companies will move forward on three projects, which Locksmith has been developing since it launched in 2014. The plan would be for the first project to head into production within the next 12 months and to release the first theatrical…...
- 5/4/2016
- Deadline
Plus: Former Rhythm & Hues ace Ken Roupenian joins Digital Domain; and more…
Paramount Pictures and the UK’s Locksmith Animation announced on Wednesday they are moving ahead on three projects under a development and production partnership.
Locksmith has been developing the projects since its inception in 2014 and the partners plan to start production within the next 12 months and release the first film in 2020. The goal is for further projects to emerge.
Writer-director Sarah Smith and producer Julie Lockhart founded Locksmith and launched in 2014 with the backing of Murdoch.
Universal Pictures has dated four untitled Blumhouse horror projects for February 24, 2017; April 28, 2017; January 5, 2018; and October 19, 2018.Digital Domain had hired Ken Roupenian as vice -president, digital studio. The former Rhythm & Hues head of digital production will be responsible for the company’s creative teams globally, and will report to Digital Domain executive vice president and general manager, Erika Burton.
Paramount Pictures and the UK’s Locksmith Animation announced on Wednesday they are moving ahead on three projects under a development and production partnership.
Locksmith has been developing the projects since its inception in 2014 and the partners plan to start production within the next 12 months and release the first film in 2020. The goal is for further projects to emerge.
Writer-director Sarah Smith and producer Julie Lockhart founded Locksmith and launched in 2014 with the backing of Murdoch.
Universal Pictures has dated four untitled Blumhouse horror projects for February 24, 2017; April 28, 2017; January 5, 2018; and October 19, 2018.Digital Domain had hired Ken Roupenian as vice -president, digital studio. The former Rhythm & Hues head of digital production will be responsible for the company’s creative teams globally, and will report to Digital Domain executive vice president and general manager, Erika Burton.
- 5/4/2016
- by jeremykay67@gmail.com (Jeremy Kay)
- ScreenDaily
Horrible Histories could be heading to success at this year's British Academy Children's Awards after being nominated in three categories.
The programme leads the nominations with nods in the Comedy and Writing categories, while Jessica Ransom is also nominated in the performer category for her turn as Mary, Queen of Scots.
Elsewhere, The Incredible Adventures of Professor Branestawm is nominated in the Comedy category, while star Harry Hill is also a contender.
Meanwhile, Peppa Pig is up for awards in the Preschool: Animation and Writer categories, while Operation Ouch! is in the running for a Factual award.
Operation Ouch! hosts Drs Alexander and Chris van Tulleken are nominated for Presenter awards, as are Sam Nixon and Mark Rhodes of Sam & Mark's Big Friday Wind-Up.
Harriet's Army has nominations for Drama and Writer, while The Dumping Ground, Wolfblood and Katie Morag are all up for Drama awards.
All At Sea...
The programme leads the nominations with nods in the Comedy and Writing categories, while Jessica Ransom is also nominated in the performer category for her turn as Mary, Queen of Scots.
Elsewhere, The Incredible Adventures of Professor Branestawm is nominated in the Comedy category, while star Harry Hill is also a contender.
Meanwhile, Peppa Pig is up for awards in the Preschool: Animation and Writer categories, while Operation Ouch! is in the running for a Factual award.
Operation Ouch! hosts Drs Alexander and Chris van Tulleken are nominated for Presenter awards, as are Sam Nixon and Mark Rhodes of Sam & Mark's Big Friday Wind-Up.
Harriet's Army has nominations for Drama and Writer, while The Dumping Ground, Wolfblood and Katie Morag are all up for Drama awards.
All At Sea...
- 10/22/2015
- Digital Spy
Shaun and his wooly pals are on a mission to make a statement next week when they hit the big screen in Shaun The Sheep Movie.
Lionsgate has released two hilarious Spectre and Mission: Impossible spoof posters before the film opens on August 5.
When Shaun grows bored of his daily routine at Mossy Bottom Farm under the watchful eye of The Farmer and his dutiful dog Bitzer, he conspires with the rest of the flock to take a much-needed day off. Their scheme seems to be working perfectly after they trick The Farmer into falling asleep (by making him count sheep, of course), but their staycation is derailed when he is unwittingly transported via runaway camper trailer to the Big City.
Determined to find The Farmer and bring him home, Shaun and his flockmates embark on a well-intentioned if ill-conceived rescue mission to the nearby bustling metropolis. Their action-packed adventure...
Lionsgate has released two hilarious Spectre and Mission: Impossible spoof posters before the film opens on August 5.
When Shaun grows bored of his daily routine at Mossy Bottom Farm under the watchful eye of The Farmer and his dutiful dog Bitzer, he conspires with the rest of the flock to take a much-needed day off. Their scheme seems to be working perfectly after they trick The Farmer into falling asleep (by making him count sheep, of course), but their staycation is derailed when he is unwittingly transported via runaway camper trailer to the Big City.
Determined to find The Farmer and bring him home, Shaun and his flockmates embark on a well-intentioned if ill-conceived rescue mission to the nearby bustling metropolis. Their action-packed adventure...
- 7/31/2015
- by Michelle McCue
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
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