Introduction:

In today’s globalized world, the animation industry thrives on cross-border collaborations. In the last few years studios have been able to rely on large advances from broadcasters to finance production.  This year that situation has started to change and there is a need to find other means to finance production.  As a result co-productions, particularly those facilitated by official production treaties between countries, have re-emerged as a powerful means to pool resources, share expertise, and create compelling content. In this article we give a simple outline of animation co-productions 101 and identify how official production treaties can pave the way for successful collaborations.

Understanding Animation Co-Productions:

Animation co-productions involve the joint production of an animated project between two or more studios in different countries. This collaborative approach allows each participating studio to contribute creatively, financially, and technically, and importantly access any financial support the region has to offer.  By combining resources and expertise, animation co-productions open up new avenues for creativity and storytelling while expanding market reach. 

The Role of Official Production Treaties:

Official production treaties play a crucial role in facilitating animation co-productions between countries. These treaties establish a legal framework and provide guidelines for the collaboration, addressing key aspects such as intellectual property rights, financing, distribution, and cultural exchange. They foster trust, ensure transparency, and provide a solid foundation for seamless cooperation between the partnering countries.  They are a great starting point and tool to build your financing model around. 

Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) Protection:

One of the essential elements covered by official production treaties is intellectual property rights. These agreements outline the ownership and protection of intellectual property assets, ensuring that each participating country’s creative contributions are acknowledged and safeguarded. By addressing IPR concerns, animation co-productions can proceed with confidence, encouraging a harmonious working relationship.

Financial and Funding Considerations:

Financing an animation project can be a significant challenge. Official production treaties often provide provisions for financial support, grants, tax incentives, and co-production funds. These mechanisms help mitigate financial risks and encourage investment in the co-production. By pooling financial resources, countries can share the financial burden while maximizing the potential return on investment.

Distribution and Market Access:

Animation co-productions offer a unique advantage in terms of distribution and market access. By combining the networks and expertise of multiple countries, the co-produced content can gain access to a broader audience base across participating territories. Official production treaties often address local content restrictions, allowing the production to be recognised as official content in a particular region even if some of the work has been completed outside that territory.  

Accessing new Talent:

Animation co-productions also allow for the blending of diverse storytelling traditions, animation styles, and creative influences.  The range of talent that a production can access is greatly increased by entering into a co-production.   This cultural exchange not only enriches the content but also strengthens relationships and promotes mutual understanding between countries.

Conclusion:

Animation co-productions supported by official production treaties have re-emerged as a driving force in the global animation industry. By leveraging the strengths and resources of multiple countries, these collaborations create exceptional animated content that resonates with audiences worldwide. Through the legal framework provided by official production treaties, intellectual property rights, financing, distribution, and cultural exchange are effectively addressed, ensuring smooth and fruitful collaborations.

If you are interested in learning more or gaining support for your co-production efforts East Bridge Creative are experienced in the process, have strong relationships in place and are always ready to offer any support required.  Our focus is on relationships that form a bridge between Asia and western aligned companies.  Please contact us here anytime if you have any questions.  .