Global kids’ content distributor Jetpack Distribution has acquired the worldwide rights for three brand-new pre-school animated shows from the award-winning Northern Ireland-based animation outfit, Paper Owl Films.
Comprising 26 two-minute episodes (with series two in development), Ladybird & Bee (pictured) tells the charming stories of the natural world as seen from the perspective of two tiny best friends, with viewers learning things about them and their habitats along the way. Commissioned by Irish public service broadcaster RTÉjr, Ladybird & Bee launched in Irish in March, and will launch in English on 4 October.
With 52 eleven-minute episodes planned and due to go into production late 2023, Mr Dog is based on the best-selling books by Ben Fogle about a globe-trotting pooch who solves other animals’ problems in lovable, funny and often mischievous ways.
Finally, Florida – also comprising 52 eleven-minute episodes and set to be produced in late 2023 – highlights the wonders of engineering, and features a girl (the Florida of the title) who has come to live with Aunt G in her GEM (Gadgets of Everyday Marvel) shop, where the ‘gems’ are wonders of human invention and creativity. With imagination and plenty of optimism, Florida and her friends help these unwanted objects find a new purpose in the world.
“These shows from Paper Owl Films make delightful, quirky and unique additions to our preschool catalogue,” says Jetpack’s CEO, Dominic Gardiner. “They are gently introducing young children to concepts such as teamwork, helping others, using creativity, exploring the world around you and looking at everyday objects in new ways. All are set in locations that preschoolers will find fascinating and intriguing. Something that we love to encourage in young audiences.”
Jetpack Distribution was founded in 2014 and it has gone on to become a leading global distributor of kids shows including Master Moley, Clangers, Chuggington, Mighty Little Bheem, Wolf, Talking Tom and Friends, Yoko, Dennis & Gnasher Unleashed and Kitty is Not a Cat. The company distributes an extensive catalogue of award-winning kids’ properties through a wide variety of channels, from traditional broadcasters to digital platforms.
Paper Owl Films’ Creative Director, Gráinne Mc Guinness, says: “We’re honoured that Jetpack is distributing these shows that are very close to our hearts. Paper Owl Films is committed to delivering memorable content that has a positive impact on young preschoolers – whether that’s as simple as a giggle or helping them learn valuable lessons through fun and funny content. This ranges from the beauty of natural biodiversity balance with best ‘beasties’ Ladybird and Bee, madcap animal rescues with Mr Dog, or being inspired by Florida’s confidence and commitment to a better world for everyone she meets.”
