EXCLUSIVE: UK indie Cantilever Media, producer of animated franchise The Amazing Maurice, and sales firm Architect are launching Christmas Inc. to buyers ahead of this year’s Cannes market.

The film marks the second project from the companies’ recently announced joint venture which will see them co-sell and finance animated feature films for the global market.

Christmas Inc. will be produced by Cantilever Media and ReDefine Originals with Kazoo Films taking rights for the UK and Ireland. The project was developed by Moonshot Films, who also serve as co-producer.

Co-written by British screenwriter Chris Anastasi (Madness in the Method) and comedy writer Clare Plested, the film will be directed by Avgousta Zourelidi (Monster High: Electrified). ReDefine Originals, a co-producing creative partner, is the exclusive animation studio for the feature.

The synopsis reads: “With Santa retired to the Bahamas, Christmas is now run by Christmas Incorporated, a glossy, corporate empire led by eccentric billionaire Jerri Ronson, who is set on modernising, streamlining and optimising the festive period. Eager to prove herself, Goldie, Jerri’s ambitious elf assistant, is sent from sunny California to shut down the world’s last traditional toy workshop, hidden deep in the rainy British countryside. There, she discovers a chaotic world of handmade toys, misfit elves and unexpected heart, and begins to realise what really makes Christmas special. Now Goldie must decide where she stands before Christmas loses its magic for good.”

Architect’s Calum Gray said: “Christmas Inc. is super charming, emotional and funny. It’s going to be a pleasure for the whole family. We are delighted to be presenting it to buyers in Cannes.”

Greg Gavanski, Managing Director of ReDefine Originals commented: “We are delighted to be co-producing another fun family adventure with Andrew and the amazing team at Cantilever. Our artists are having a blast bringing this magical new world to life.”

Andrew Baker, CEO of Cantilever Media, added: “Christmas Inc. is a fun animated family film which we are sure will become a timeless, annual favourite. Chris and Clare have written an incredibly funny and warm screenplay and Avgousta’s vision and experience promise to make this an enduring festive film. We are delighted to unveil for Cannes.”