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An Australian animation studio that worked on blockbuster films including Happy Feet, Peter Rabbit 1 & 2 and more has been acquired by Netflix to support the streaming giant’s ambitions in the animated film world.
Based in Sydney, Animal Logic will join the Netflix stable for an undisclosed amount, bringing with it 30 years of experience in producing visual effects and animation.
It builds on an already strong partnership between the two companies, with Animal Logic involved in a full slate of films in the works for Netflix including The Magician’s Elephant, directed by Wendy Rogers, and the recently announced The Shrinking of the Treehorns, directed by Ron Howard.
“Netflix has been investing in animation over the past few years and this furthers our commitment to building a world-class animation studio,” Netflix vice president of studio operations Amy Reinhard said.
“Animal Logic is a leading animation studio with innovative technology that will strengthen our existing business and increase our long-term capacity in the animation space, so that we can better entertain our members around the world.”
Led by CEO and co-founder Zareh Nalbandian, the Animal Logic teams and leadership will remain operating under the Animal Logic brand fulfilling the production of existing and ongoing commitments while continuing to collaborate and work with longstanding studio partners.
The deal - subject to regulatory approvals and expected to close later this year - will not preclude Netflix from working with other animated studios in the future, but it will see the two companies work closely on the streaming service's largest animated film titles.
Animal Logic will also remain independent and continue to collaborate with other filmmakers and major studio partners to develop and produce animated films and visual effects.
"After 30 years of producing great work with great people, this is the perfect next chapter for Animal Logic," Nalbandian said.
"Our values and aspirations could not be more aligned with Netflix, in working with diverse content makers, producing innovative and engaging stories for audiences around the world.
“Our collective experience and talent will open new doors for all our teams and will empower a new level of creativity in animation.”
In addition to creating animated films, Animal Logic also specialises in visual effects and has previously contributed to films including The Matrix, Moulin Rouge!, 300, and The Great Gatsby.
“The strength of our partnership across a number of projects is testament to our shared creative vision,” Animal Logic COO Sharon Taylor said.
“Solidifying our future together felt like a mutually beneficial, natural progression and I am so excited to continue to build on our success together.”
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