Like a Photon Creative Unveils Seven-Film Animated Slate, Partners with Sola Media
Like a Photon Creative, the Australian animation powerhouse behind the successful 'The Pout-Pout Fish,' is embarking on an exciting new chapter with the announcement of seven upcoming animated feature films. This ambitious slate, backed by Elevate Production Finance and Alceon Entertainment Partners, signifies a major expansion for the studio. Sola Media has secured the international distribution rights for all seven features, while Maslow Entertainment will handle distribution in Australia and New Zealand. This venture is projected to create a substantial number of employment opportunities, with an estimated 1,000 jobs in Australia and Ireland, underscoring the studio's growing influence in the global animation industry. The studio's CEO, Kristen Souvlis, is set to attend the American Film Market (AFM) to further discuss these developments.
Like a Photon Creative Unveils Seven-Film Animated Slate, Partners with Sola Media
On November 5, 2026, at 7:10 PM PT, Like a Photon Creative, the acclaimed Australian animation studio, revealed an impressive roster of seven new animated feature films. This significant announcement comes as the studio prepares for the American Film Market (AFM), where CEO Kristen Souvlis will represent their expanded vision.
The first feature to enter production is 'Familiar,' an original concept developed in-house. This film will be a co-production with the Irish company Elephant Goldfish, with production slated to commence in March 2027. 'Familiar' is set at Ironclaw Academy, a unique institution where the animal companions of sorcerers, known as familiars, undergo rigorous and often chaotic training. The narrative centers on Josie, a spirited young cat navigating the challenges of the academy.
Kristen Souvlis emphasized the studio's commitment to creating high-quality content that resonates with families. She stated, "Families consistently return to our films, and we are dedicated to producing projects that earn that trust, featuring compelling stories and broad appeal. 'Familiar' is the inaugural title in our expanding pipeline of seven new features. Sola Media has a proven track record with our productions, and together, we see a remarkable opportunity to bring Australian and European content to a global audience."
In an innovative approach to audience engagement, Like a Photon Creative plans to develop short-form direct-to-consumer content for each of the seven features. This material, distinct from the films themselves, will be bundled with the movies and distributed across various online and social platforms, aiming to build brand awareness and marketing momentum well in advance of the theatrical releases.
This new slate follows the success of 'The Pout-Pout Fish,' which Sola Media also distributed internationally. Adapted from the beloved children's book series, the film achieved notable success, ranking ninth at the U.S. box office and becoming the fourth highest-grossing Australian film of 2026. It also reached the top spot on Amazon Prime Kids and climbed to number six among all Prime viewers. Maslow Entertainment released the film in Australian cinemas on January 1, with Viva Kids handling the U.S. release on March 20.
Sola Media will continue its partnership by overseeing the international distribution of the studio's upcoming film, 'The Neverending Pillow Fort.' This feature, the first from Crayola Studios, is produced in collaboration with MIMO Studios and directed by Allison Brownmoore, with a release anticipated in early 2027. The voice cast boasts an impressive lineup, including Elizabeth Cullen and Sofia Rose as best friends Maggie and Abby, alongside Guy Pearce, David Tennant, Teresa Palmer, and Marsai Martin.
Solveig Langeland, Managing Director of Sola Media, praised Like a Photon Creative's storytelling approach, which consistently blends humor and heart, supported by exceptional voice casting. She expressed pride in their shared accomplishments and enthusiasm for the future of their collaboration. Langeland highlighted the studio's strategic move into co-productions with Ireland and their forward-thinking method of building brands through direct-to-consumer content, which she believes will significantly enhance their upcoming slate.
Beyond film production, Like a Photon Creative has also partnered with Screen Queensland for the Escalate: Feature Focus Writers Initiative. This program will enable six Queensland-based screenwriters to develop scripts for potential 3D animated features, utilizing concepts provided by the studio. Writers' rooms for this initiative are scheduled to commence in February 2027.
Since 2017, the studio has supported and produced 10 3D animated features for global theatrical release, including 'The Wishmas Tree,' 'Combat Wombat' and its 2023 sequel, 'Daisy Quokka: World’s Scariest Animal,' 'The Sloth Lane,' and 'The Lost Tiger.' They also created the Sanctuary City multiverse for Universal Content Group.
Founded by Langeland in 2004, Sola Media operates independently from its offices in Stuttgart and Munich, despite its acquisition by Embracer Group's Plaion in 2020. The company continues to be led by Langeland and co-managing director Moritz Peters.
This extensive slate of animated features from Like a Photon Creative, combined with strategic partnerships and innovative content distribution, marks a pivotal moment for the studio. It demonstrates a clear vision for growth, a commitment to quality storytelling, and a keen understanding of how to engage modern audiences. The focus on job creation also highlights the positive economic impact of such creative ventures. It's inspiring to see an Australian studio expanding its global footprint and fostering international collaborations, bringing diverse animated stories to screens worldwide.
