[Press Release] Chinese and Russian Animation together in co-production launch ceremony
[13 September 2017] – On Tuesday September 12th, the Sino-Russian co-production animation project “Krash and Hehe” was successfully launched in Guangzhou, China. High level guests from both China and Russia attended a launch ceremony under the witness of representatives from the State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television of The People’s Republic of China (SAPPRFT), China Central Television (CCTV), China International Television Corporation (CITVC) as well as FUN Union (Hong Kong) and the Riki Group (Russia).
The guests of honour included Liu Yandong, Vice Premier of the People’s Republic of China and Olga Golodets, Deputy Prime Minister for Social Affairs for the Russian Federation. Both leaders gave enthusiastic speeches, in which they described the “Krash and Hehe” project as the perfect blend of Chinese and Russian culture. All parties believe that this co-production project will play an important role in the improvement of the relationship between the two cultures, particularly with children.
Liu Yandong shared in her speech: “Today, I’m very glad to attend the launch ceremony of one of the most important projects of Sino-Russia Media Exchange Year: the Sino-Russian co-production animation “Krash and Hehe”. This is the first co-production animation made by China and Russia. It will become a new highlight of the communication of children from both our countries, and it will make children from both countries very happy”.
Olga Golodets, Deputy Prime Minister for Social Affairs for the Russian Federation shared that this was a very special day, as the two countries continue to work together, forging friendships between the children of both countries, through this project.
Christine Brendle, FUN Union CEO highlights: “It’s an incredible honour to finance and lead the development of this project. We’re seeing great signs of its global potential through the support we’re receiving from our partners and government bodies”.
An introductory video of “Krash and Hehe” was unveiled for the first time during the launch ceremony. A children’s choir also sang the theme song of the project.
The main characters of this co-production animation series “Krash and Hehe” are already favourites in the market – rabbit “Krash” from the well-known “KikoRiki” series in Russia and panda “Hehe” who is an iconic representative of Chinese culture. The story takes place in a toy store where, at night, the toys come to life and embark on an endless series of wild and wacky adventures, echoing with the themes of friendship and fun.
The animation series is co-produced by China Central Television (CCTV) Animation, FUN Union Limited (Hong Kong) and Riki Group from Russia. Its first season will include 52 episodes of 11 minutes and will be made in 3D CGI with 2D inserts. The production will be released in 2019.
Watch the introduction videos to “Krash and Hehe”:
Video 1
Video 2
