MIAM! Distribution's New Acquisitions: A Festival of Fresh Voices

MIAM! at the Heart of European Animation

As the dust settled from Unifrance Rendez-Vous yesterday, MIAM! Distribution stepped into the spotlight with an exciting lineup that not only showcases their strategic acumen but also reinforces their position as a vital player in the European animation landscape. The company's latest acquisitions — two animated TV series and one 52-minute TV special — are more than just business moves; they're statements of artistic intent.

"Our acquisition strategy is driven by a desire to work with independent producers and creators who bring distinctive voices and fresh perspectives," says Hanna Mouchez, CEO of MIAM! Distribution. "Through these three projects, we explore themes that are central to our editorial vision: identity and belonging, diversity and representation, and the confidence to find your own place in the world."

With this new slate, MIAM! continues its tradition of championing creators whose work stems from lived experiences and cultural authenticity. The company's approach is refreshing in an industry often dominated by formulaic content — they're betting on storytelling that resonates deeply with global audiences.

The First Wave: 'Sevens' – A Rugby Anthem for Girls

At the forefront of MIAM!'s latest offerings is Sevens, a 13×22-minute kids' animated series inspired by real-life rugby player Séraphine Okemba. This series isn't just about sport; it's a vibrant celebration of female strength, solidarity, and sisterhood.

The story centers around Rose, an average middle-school girl who decides to start a girls' rugby team at her school. As she navigates the challenges of building trust and teamwork among her peers, Sevens explores how sport can empower young people, build confidence, and challenge gender norms.

Okemba herself adds poetic insight: "Rugby is a sport built on values. Within a team, players learn solidarity, mutual support and trust in yourself and others. They learn to trust themselves, and to trust others."

The show is co-directed by award-winning talents Guillaume Lorin and Vinnie Ann Bose, bringing cinematic depth to a series that will air on France Télévisions. With an expected delivery by the end of 2028, this series represents more than entertainment — it's a movement toward inclusive representation.

Queerstory: Rediscovering Forgotten Queer Legends

Next up is Queerstory, a bold 20×6-minute doc series that delves into queer myths and legends often overlooked in history. Created by Iris Miské, this series uses humor, historical sources, and expert commentary to bring forgotten queer stories back into the spotlight.

From the truth behind Thor's hammer to Princess Badoure from One Thousand and One Nights, Queerstory restores these legends to their rightful place in our collective memory. Miské's voice is unapologetically sharp, blending graphic design with pop culture references that speak to a wide audience.

Miské states, "Queer people have always existed, all around the world. In these times where LGBTQIA+ identities are globally threatened, 'Queerstory' builds a bridge between the past and the present, giving life to our queer ancestors, and arguments to fight bigotry."

This series will be delivered in May 2027 by Hauteville Productions and set to premiere on Slash, France Télévisions' digital platform dedicated to young adults. Queerstory isn't just educational — it's a cultural reset for inclusivity.

Dad & Me: A Journey of Belonging

The final addition is the 52-minute coming-of-age TV special, Dad & Me, produced by Have a Nice Day Films and Les Astronautes. This poignant tale follows Alyona, a Russian girl who moves to Paris with her father. Facing language barriers and cultural challenges, she finds her voice through friendship and self-expression — especially in rap.

Director Olesya Shchukina, adapting her own childhood story, says, "Whatever your age, you always need courage to build a new life in a new country, town, or even neighborhood. I wanted to talk about this experience and its complexity, so both kids and adults could relate."

With support from French funds including Pictanovo, CICLIC, Région Sud, Procirep, France's CNC National Film Board, and Les Films du Préau, Dad & Me is currently in production and will premiere on France Télévisions in July 2027.

The MIAM! Vision: Beyond the Numbers

These three productions join MIAM!'s existing catalog of 33 programs, showcasing the group's deep commitment to artistic originality, sustainable production models, and technological innovation. Founded in 2016, MIAM! has become a powerhouse in international distribution and licensing for animated content, with hits like Edmond and Lucy, The Tinies, and Goat Girl.

What sets MIAM! apart isn't just its roster of titles — it's the way they curate stories that speak to universal truths. These acquisitions signal a broader cultural shift in animation, where narratives are no longer limited by genre or demographic but are rooted in emotional resonance and shared experience.

Why It Matters

In a world where content can feel generic or performative, MIAM!'s new slate offers something rare: authentic storytelling with real-world impact. These animated series aren't just meant to entertain — they're designed to educate, empower, and inspire.

Whether it's a young girl finding her voice in rugby, a queer teenager exploring history, or a child navigating a new country, these stories remind us that every journey matters, especially when told with heart, humor, and humanity.

As we look ahead to 2027 and beyond, MIAM!'s vision — one of inclusivity, cultural richness, and creative independence — continues to shape the future of global animation. It's not just about what they're distributing; it's about how they're reshaping the narrative.