Toonz Media Group and 1st Place Strike Anime Production Pact
Indian animation studio Toonz Media Group has entered a partnership with Japanese IP developer 1st Place to produce anime and 3D CGI projects at reduced costs. The deal aims to address a talent shortage in Japan's anime industry, where studios are struggling to meet rising global demand from platforms like Netflix and Prime Video. Toonz, known for work on Marvel's Wolverine and X-Men films, will expand its role in international anime production. 1st Place founder Kumiko cited a "significant talent shortage" in Japan as a driver for the collaboration. The announcement was part of a broader global briefs roundup that also included 'Hunted' format deals in Sweden, Belgium, and Botswana; ITV renewing 'Ant & Dec's Limitless Win' through late 2027 with two more seasons and Christmas specials; Irish shows 'Birdsong', 'The Cable That Changed the World', and 'Hardy Bucks' selling to European broadcasters including BBC, Arte, and RAI; and David Beckham's Studio 99 hiring Jessica Ludgrove as VP of Production.