The production company Les Valseurs announces that Folivari International has become the exclusive global sales agent for the animated series SAMUEL. A true phenomenon in France, Germany, and Spain, SAMUEL has already surpassed 35 million views on arte.tv and social media, captivating a diverse audience and fostering an active community.
Produced by Les Valseurs and Pikkukala, the series was developed in an innovative format that bridges linear broadcasting and social media. SAMUEL resonates with a broad audience, particularly young adults and teenagers, across both traditional television channels and online platforms. It has also made a significant impact on social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, with high levels of audience engagement.
Damien Megherbi, co-founder of Les Valseurs, explains:
We chose Folivari International because we feel closely aligned with Folivari’s DNA and trust their team to unlock the international potential of a unique program like Samuel. This partnership marks a crucial step in developing a new kind of animated series that will lead to the creation of new IPs with international reach.
By partnering with Folivari International for the global sales of SAMUEL, Les Valseurs takes a significant step in their growth strategy. Founded in 2013 by Damien Megherbi and Justin Pechberty, the company has produced several award-winning short films recognized at major festivals, including the Jury Prize at Annecy for WICKED GIRL and a César for Best Animated Short. Les Valseurs is now actively expanding into feature films and series.
Mélissa Vega, Head of Sales and Acquisitions at Folivari International:
We are thrilled to represent such an innovative and creative series as SAMUEL. The success of SAMUEL in Europe highlights its international potential, and we are excited to work with Les Valseurs to bring it to an even wider audience.
Folivari International plans to present SAMUEL at major international markets in 2024, with a tailored launch strategy for each territory, including careful localization and a comprehensive transmedia plan. The series, which has already demonstrated its universal appeal in Europe, aims to conquer new markets, particularly in North America and Latin America, to further strengthen its global presence.
Vega adds:
With SAMUEL, we have the opportunity to promote high-quality content capable of growing over multiple seasons. We firmly believe in SAMUEL’s potential to become a key transmedia franchise on the global stage.
Created and directed by Émilie Tronche, SAMUEL is deeply rooted in a distinct creative vision. Although grounded in French realities, the series tackles universal themes such as childhood and adolescence, life in a small peripheral town, and the subtle expression of emotions through minimalist animation and carefully curated music.
