Asian Inspiration (TV Kids)

Kuala Lumpur: The Malaysian company Inspidea is coming to MIPCOM with a range of animated properties, led by Ko-Bushi, a co-production with France's SIP Animation. The 78x3-minute series features Japanese feudal warriors who are constantly at odds as they vie to become the next sushi bar mascot.

For Andrew Ooi, the managing director of Inspidea, the working relationship with SIP has been a fruitful one. "Inspidea is strong in animation development and production," Ooi says. "SIP is great at storytelling and animation direction. That comes from having a long history of producing successful animation series. There is also the matter of East meets West. Our differences in culture and experiences help in maximising the impact of K0-Bushi as far as storytelling and design are concerned."

At MIPCOM, a priority will be closing out the financing on the show. Ooi believes broadcasters will take to the property for its "universal comedic appeal. Not having dialogue helps make it internationally marketable. Ko-Bushi, like other shorts, is also attractive for new media platforms like mobile and internet downloads, as well as VOD. They are light entertainment, fast-paced and very very funny."