Just as Disney announced the closure of its Tokyo-based animation facility, word leaked out in Japan that Sony Pictures Entertainment would unveil its own animation division in Tokyo specializing in original local-language productions. And just like that, 103 animators and staffers that will be cut loose from Disney after wrapping the WINNIE THE POOH spinoff, THE HEFFALUMP MOVIE, may soon find a new home at Sony.
A Sony spokesperson confirmed the startup, which represents the seventh international unit that produces films in local languages. The plan is to make two animated features a year, with Sony Pictures Entertainment serving as exporter.
Bill Desowitz, former editor of VFXWorld, is currently the Crafts Editor of IndieWire.
