The enchanting French animated fantasy film, “Sirocco and the Kingdom of Winds,” has been acquired by GKIDS for distribution in North America. This much-anticipated collaboration is set to hit theaters in 2024, offering audiences a truly magical experience.
A Journey Into a Fantastical World
Released in France on December 13, “Sirocco and the Kingdom of Winds” made a grand entrance as the opening night feature at the esteemed 2023 Annecy International Animation Film Festival. It also captivated audiences during its U.S. premiere at the 2023 Animation is Film Festival. This imaginative tale takes us on an exhilarating journey with adventure-seeking sisters, Juliette and Carmen, who find themselves transported into Juliette’s beloved fantasy book.
An Unforgettable Adventure
As these sisters metamorphose into humanoid cats, they become immersed in a mystical realm filled with flying divas, technicolor dragons, and other mind-bending creations. There, they encounter the enigmatic blue-haired wizard, Sirocco, who possesses the power to control the winds. While attempting to reunite and return to the real world, Juliette and Carmen discover it’s not so simple to leave behind their newfound magical friends and the captivating wonders that await them.
GKIDS Takes the Stage
GKIDS president David Jesteadt expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating, “We have eagerly awaited ‘Sirocco and the Kingdom of Winds’ for years, ever since we caught a glimpse of its mesmerizing visuals. Beyond its stunning animation, ‘Sirocco’ presents a timeless fairy tale that we are certain will enchant American audiences.”
Kinology, responsible for international sales, brokered the deal between GKIDS and the filmmakers. Grégoire Melin, CEO of Kinology, praised the collaboration, saying, “We are thrilled to join forces once again with GKIDS for this cinematic gem that pays tribute to animation masterpieces, including Hayao Miyazaki’s remarkable work, which GKIDS has expertly brought to audiences with his last masterpiece, ‘The Boy and the Heron.'”
GKIDS, renowned as the North American distributor of Studio Ghibli films, continues to cultivate a reputation for bringing exceptional animated films to discerning audiences.
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