Animated Feature 'Pirate Mo' Secures Global Distribution Ahead of AFM Debut
Ulysses Films' animated adventure, 'Pirate Mo and the Legend of the Red Ruby,' has achieved significant global distribution, with sales finalized for more than 50 countries. This considerable success in international markets precedes the film's highly anticipated market debut at the American Film Market, where a new teaser trailer has just been unveiled. The family-friendly feature, adapted from Kirsten Boie’s beloved novel 'Seeräubermoses,' tells the story of a young orphan, Mo, navigating life among a motley crew of buccaneers. Her journey involves confronting the nefarious Peg Leg Olle and seeking out the mythical Blood Red Ruby of Doom to bring peace and balance to her world.
The latest territories to acquire distribution rights for 'Pirate Mo' include Australia and New Zealand, secured by Umbrella Entertainment, Israel through FilmHouse, and Vietnam with Skyline Media. These recent agreements build upon an already impressive list of international partners, showcasing the film's broad appeal. Directed by Florian Westermann, known for his work on 'The Amazing Maurice,' the film promises a captivating narrative that combines elements of daring seafaring exploits with heartwarming themes of camaraderie and destiny.
Earlier sales for the animated production encompassed a diverse array of regions. The Baltics saw distribution rights go to Garsu Pasaulio Irasai, while Just4Kids acquired rights for the Benelux countries. Pro Films will handle distribution in Bulgaria, DonArt Production in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, and Blitz in Ex-Yugoslavia. Greece's distribution will be managed by Rosebud.21, and ADS will release the film in Hungary and Romania. Grand Entertainment for Motion Pictures secured rights for the Middle East, M2 Films for Poland, and Outsider Films for Portugal. Njutafilms will distribute in Scandinavia, Filmarti in Turkey, and Svoekino in Ukraine. Notably, Viva Pictures Distribution will bring the film to audiences across North America, ensuring a wide release in key global markets.
In Germany and Austria, DCM Distribution is set to launch 'Pirate Mo and the Legend of the Red Ruby' in cinemas on April 29, 2027. The screenplay, a collaborative effort between Richie Conroy and director Westermann, meticulously translates the spirit and adventure of Boie's original novel to the screen. The plot centers on Mo, a spirited child who, having been discovered and raised by the benevolent Captain Claas and his eccentric pirate crew, finds her life taking an unexpected turn when she is captured by the notorious Peg Leg Olle. During her captivity, she encounters Hannes, a clever cabin boy, and his avian companion. Together with her adoptive pirate family and their animal companions, Mo embarks on a perilous quest to vanquish Peg Leg Olle and fulfill an ancient prophecy, ultimately seeking the fabled Blood Red Ruby of Doom to restore harmony to their world.
The production of 'Pirate Mo and the Legend of the Red Ruby' is a collaborative venture involving several esteemed animation studios: Ulysses Films, Letterbox Filmproduktion, Isla Molona AIE, Arxlight Pictures, and Arx Anima. The team of producers includes Emely Christians, Sonja Matthes, Michael Lehmann, Holger Ellermann, Dunja Bernatzky, Kris Staber, Nicolás Matji, and Edmon Roch. This ambitious project has also garnered support from various cultural and film funding bodies, including ICAA, OEFI+, DFFF, MOIN Film Fund Hamburg Schleswig-Holstein, FFA, BKM, OEFI, ICEC, and Creative Europe MEDIA Slate Funding, underscoring the film's potential and its broad industry backing.
This animated feature, a vibrant tale of adventure and courage, has successfully garnered widespread international interest, securing distribution in over fifty countries. The film's imminent premiere at the American Film Market, coupled with the release of its captivating teaser, positions it as a significant release in the animated family film genre. With its compelling storyline, memorable characters, and a dedicated production team, 'Pirate Mo and the Legend of the Red Ruby' is poised to enchant audiences worldwide.
