Variety reports Simon Crowe’s SC Films International has acquired Filipino superhero adventure Zsazsa Zaturnnah vs. the Amazonistas of Planet X, an animated feature directed by Avid Liongoren.
This boarding looks set to push Filipino animation into the global spotlight. This trailblazing project pairs well with a highly respected animation sales company. SC Films has already been linked to high-profile French production companies and their animated features.
“Zsazsa continues SC Films interest in the wonderful world of animation. Basically, we just loved the unique pitch and believe it’s not only a fun story but an important one too. Avid is a real talent,” said Crowe.
Based on the Philippine LGBTQ graphic novel written by Carlo Vergara, the film follows Ada, a meek, lovesick salon owner who pines for his attractive neighbor Dodong while confiding in co-worker Didi. Things drastically change when a comet crashes on Earth, and Ada is coerced into swallowing it whole. Once ingested, Ada transforms into the voluptuous and headstrong superhero, Zsazsa, tasked with taking on a group of interplanetary Amazonistas trying to eradicate men from Earth.
Liongoren brings this story to life with explosive 2D animation. He already showcased his talents on a previously Netflix acquisition project, You Animal.
“While my main goal is to tell a funny and entertaining story, my advocacy is also to showcase Filipino animation talent to the world. The Philippines is a go-to nation for animation service work but, sadly, we are not known for ideating and producing animated films,” Liongoren said.
He added: “There’ve been less than 10 animated feature films in the entire 100 year history of Philippine cinema. My team and I hope to continue adding to our nation’s feature animation filmography and establishing Filipino animators as not just service providers, but creators.”
The film centers on an Asian LGBTQ superhero to redefine superhero tropes, using its campy and relatable edge. It has received support from the Filipino state agency FDCP’s ICOF Fund.
“Zsazsa has a unique freshness that will differentiate itself, as there never was such an irreverent LGBTQ animated feature,” Priot said.
Zsazsa looks toward a 2024 Cannes or Toronto debut.
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