Digital Domain, Galloping Horse to co-produce animated feature

The two companies signed a co-production agreement and distribution deal for mainland China today (April 12).

Beijing Galloping Horse confirmed that the two companies are co-financing the family-oriented film as the first project under their partnership announced last December.

The Legend Of Tembo will tell the story of a baby African elephant that is captured and shipped to India. The film will be the first family-friendly animated feature from Digital Domain’s subsidiary, Tradition Studios. Beijing Galloping Horse will market and distribute the film in mainland China.

“Consumer demand in China for family-focused, feature animation films is surely robust and we are thrilled to have Tembo validated in this market by a strong regional partner that is willing to invest so heavily in its outcome,” said John Textor, chairman and CEO of Digital Domain Media Group.

A source from Beijing Galloping Horse said the film is in the process of applying for a permit as a US-China co-production. Give its family theme, the film is expected to clear the approval process.

The two companies announced in December 2011 that they are setting up a joint venture in China – Digital Domain Galloping Horse Studio – which will provide visual effects, animation and production services for motion pictures, television and related media. 

According to Beijing Galloping Horse, the partners will hold a joint event at the upcoming Beijing International Film Festival to reveal more details of their co-production plans.