‘Mavka’ Producer Animagrad Studio’s Ukrainian Animated Satire ‘Family Squad’ Unveils First Teaser (EXCLUSIVE)

Animagrad Studio, the Ukrainian animation powerhouse behind the global hit “Mavka. The Forest Song,” has unveiled the first teaser for its latest project, “Family Squad,” Ukraine’s first satirical animated feature.

This 2D animated dramedy, aimed at young adult audiences, marks a collaboration with acclaimed Ukrainian filmmaker Antonio Lukich (“My Thoughts Are Silent,” “Luxembourg, Luxembourg”).

The teaser introduces viewers to the film’s protagonist, Serhii Punko, a 30-year-old misfit whose life takes an unexpected turn when a celestial mix-up by Miki, a feline angel of death, sends him to heaven. Serhii’s journey back to the land of the living leads him to the frontlines and the Chop Pirates, a group of former smugglers from Transcarpathia. The story promises a blend of love, betrayal and self-discovery.

Originally conceived as the YouTube project “Nasha Faita,” creators Mykhailo Krapenko, Pavlo Mandzych, and Ivan Bon are making their feature animation debut with “Family Squad.” Lukich serves as creative producer on the story that aims to blend humor, irony and social commentary.

Anna Eliseeva (“Mavka. The Forest Song”) produces alongside Maite Woköck (“My Fairy Troublemaker”), with “Mavka” alum Chris Koskinen as art director. Director Konstiantyn Fedorov, another “Mavka” alum, helms the project.

The film has attracted international attention, with German studio Telescope Animation joining as a co-development partner. The European Solidarity Fund For Ukrainian Films (ESFUF) has also lent its support.

“Mavka. The Forest Song” has been released in 148 countries and grossed more than $21 million worldwide. Ukraine’s Film.UA Group, which owns the studio, announced earlier this year that it’s developing a live-action “Mavka” film. A 3D animated series based on the movie’s folklore is also in the works.  

Watch the teaser here: