The famous French graphic novel character will return in a new limited animation series set to debut in 2023.
Netflix has just announced they’re partnering with leading French publisher Hachette’s Les Editions Albert René to produce a CG animated limited series based on the classic Asterix graphic novel character. French writer and director Alain Chabat will direct; Alain Goldman (Legende Films) will produce. The announcement was made on the streaming giant’s blog by Dominique Bazay, Netflix’s director of original animation.
The new series, set to debut in 2023, will be adapted from “Asterix and the Big Fight,” where the Romans, after being constantly embarrassed by Asterix and his village cohorts, organize a brawl between rival Gaulish chiefs and try to fix the result by kidnapping a druid along with his much-needed magic potion.
Chabat is no stranger to the property; he wrote and directed Mission Cléopâtre (2002), the most successful of Asterix’s numerous appearances on screen and the third highest-grossing feature film in French history.
“I’m French Canadian, and like most francophones around the world, I grew up with Asterix, his sidekick Obelix, and loyal companion Dogmatix,” Bazay wrote. “I watched the animated specials and read the books religiously. If you’d told the 8-year-old me that one day I’d help bring these characters to life… I wouldn’t have believed you!”
“I have been talking with Celeste Surugue at Albert René for years about how to bring Asterix to Netflix,” he continued. “We built a great relationship of trust and mutual respect around our love for these characters.”
According to Bazay, since the first Asterix graphic novel was introduced in 1961, 38 volumes have been released in 111 languages and dialects, with the 39th due later this year. There have also been 15 feature films dating back to 1967.
“These stories tell the saga of the pugnacious warrior and his irreverent village companions who keep a tiny corner of ancient Gaul free from bumbling Roman invaders. Each new volume and movie is eagerly awaited by fans, especially in France, Italy, Germany and Canada. I’ve always felt the unique tone of Goscinny and Uderzo’s humor is timeless. It's why Asterix is so special - it appeals to all ages and crosses all borders. I’m excited to introduce Asterix, Obelix and Dogmatix to a whole new generation of fans around the world,” he added.
Source: Netflix
Dan Sarto is Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Animation World Network.
