LA-based production studio and distributor Viva Pictures has entered into a strategic alliance with Kazoo Films, Cantilever Media’s newly launched distribution company. The non exclusive agreement will see both companies jointly acquiring animated feature films for family audiences, with Viva Pictures handling distribution in the US and Kazoo taking UK rights.
Selected films will be acquired on a case-by-case basis, with the two companies collaborating on marketing and promotional efforts to maximise reach in both territories.
Andrew Baker CEO of Kazoo Films said:
Having identified a gap in the market for a film distribution company that focuses solely on animated feature films in the UK, we are excited to be entering this strategic agreement with Viva Pictures, which has an incredible track record and reputation as a distributor in the US. Together we can identify films which will work on both sides of the Atlantic and we can pool resources to ensure the best possible marketing and promotion in both territories. We already have a hugely successful relationship with Viva for the incredible work they did on Maurice and we are looking forward to working together on upcoming films.
Viva Pictures has a strong history releasing kids and family movies in the US, both theatrically and on all the major digital streaming platforms including Hulu, Peacock, and Amazon Prime. Its current portfolio includes the upcoming release of Night of the Zoopocalypse in theaters March 7, along with HITPIG! and The Amazing Maurice, produced by Kazoo Film’s parent company Cantilever Media.
The multi-award-winning The Amazing Maurice, which has grossed over $24 million at the box office worldwide, is one of Viva Pictures’ most successful launches of a European movie in the US, releasing in over 1,700 screens across the country. The two companies will be working together again on The Amazing Maurice 2, with Viva Pictures handling sales for the upcoming film in the US.
The first film they will collaborate on is on the Clive Barker inspired, Night of the Zoopocalpyse, directed by Rodrigo Perez-Castro and Richard Curtis and produced by Steven Hoban’s Copperheart Entertainment. The two companies will be sharing assets and marketing materials for the film which Viva Pictures is releasing on March 7 and Kazoo will release in the Autumn around Halloween.
Victor Elizalde, CEO of Viva Pictures said:
Our alliance with Kazoo Films marks an exciting step forward for Viva Pictures as we expand our reach into the UK. By combining Kazoo’s deep market expertise with our established success in the US, we can strategically acquire and champion animated films that resonate with broad family audiences. We’ve already seen the impact of our collaboration on The Amazing Maurice, and this partnership allows us to build on that momentum, delivering more high-quality, engaging stories worldwide. We couldn’t be more excited that what began as casual discussion over breakfast at Kidscreen, is now coming to fruition exactly one year later.
