Miam! Distribution Dives into Adult Animation with ‘Mare the Mermaid’

In the enchanting realm of animated storytelling, France’s Miam! distribution has ensnared the rights to the captivating new adult animated series “Mare the Mermaid” from Silex Animation, a title generating significant buzz since its debut at the Cartoon Forum 2023. This audacious series, commissioned by France Télévisions for their daring platform Slash, promises to make waves when it arrives in the fourth quarter of 2026.

With an alluring premise, “Mare the Mermaid” explores the trials of Princess Pelagie, a mermaid princess yearning to break free from the constricting expectations of her royal life. Cast out from a world of shimmering castles and glittering sea balls into the bustling currents of college life, she adopts the persona of Mare, determined to dodge her mother’s authoritarian gaze and the relentless spotlight of reality television. The synopsis hints at a whimsical journey filled with secrets and misadventures, urging readers to imagine a young mermaid navigating the gargantuan tides of identity and self-acceptance in an ocean teeming with obstacles.

Judith Nora, co-founder and producer at Silex, describes the moment she first encountered the project as a serendipitous delight—an email pitch that ignited instant enthusiasm. It’s a rarity, she notes, to find young adult series that blend compelling writing with female-centric narratives, making “Mare” a precious gem in the animated sea. Directing this imaginative venture is the talented Samuel de Ceccatty, whose flair for comedic storytelling and an eye for cultural nuances will breathe life into the series, aided by a team that harmoniously marries live-action insight with animated vision.

De Ceccatty, a French-American filmmaker, draws upon his diverse heritage, envisioning a series that resonates profoundly with its audience. He is determined to carve out a niche, believing there exists a substantial appetite for local adult animation in France—a market ripe for nuances that encompass the essence of modern society. “Mare” isn’t just an animated tale; it’s a fresh interpretation of adult themes saturated with humor, vulnerability, and quirks that echo traits found in contemporary influencers and reality stars.

As Nora weaves in influences from popular live-action series like “Sex Education,” the show is poised to deliver a rich tapestry for viewers—one where comedy escalates in a realm that contrasts traditional animation aesthetics. The vivid charm of Parisian architecture will create a backdrop that symbolizes the show’s heart: a blend of romantic quirkiness and urban reality, as the protagonists navigate the waters of youthful exploration and self-discovery.

To steer “Mare” towards international shores, the creative team is committed to universal accessibility, ensuring jokes resonate in English while building upon whimsical wordplay in the original French scripts. In a globalized world where cultural exchanges are ceaseless, Miam! aims to catapult this series to international acclaim, mirroring their successful strategy with their prior hit, “Brazen.”

With an eye poised on the horizon, Miam! is set to showcase “Mare the Mermaid” at key industry markets such as the Unifrance Rendez-Vous in Le Havre and Mipcom, eager to share this shimmering creation that embodies the essence of relatable, modern tales—stories that celebrate identity, sexuality, and the bonds of friendship. As the tide of anticipation builds, the mermaid beckons, ready to dive into a world where laughter and authenticity reign supreme.