By Allison Watkinson
TLL Reporter
Independent animation studio ZAG has partnered with Cross Creek Pictures to produce the animated musical Melody.
Melody will be created and directed by Jeremy Zag. ZAG will debut the film to potential licensing partners at the 2022 Licensing Expo this week in Las Vegas
Cross Creek Pictures is an award-winning, independent production studio. It was founded in 2009 by Timmy Thompson, Tyler Thompson and Brian Oliver. Cross Creek Pictures’ films have grossed over $1.2 billion worldwide and won numerous awards.
Zag is best known as the creator, director, and producer of the global smash-hit Miraculous: Tales of Ladybug and Cat Noir. He is also the CEO and founder of the Zag animation studio.
The feature will be produced by Jeremy Zag, Cross Creek’s Tyler Thompson, Katy Perry, and Michael Gracey. Michael Gracey also served as executive producer on the upcoming, big-budget animated Miraculous Ladybug & Cat Noir: The Movie in collaboration with Zag.
Melody stars the renowned singer, songwriter, and actress Katy Perry, in the title role. Katy Perry will also co-write and perform the songs for the animated feature. Katy Perry is one of the best-selling pop artists of all time. She has sold over 143 million records worldwide.
“I’ve dreamed of making Melody for years with a vision to convey messages of empowerment in a wondrous world full of music and adventure,” said Jeremy Zag.
“As a popstar, Melody is adored by her fans, but as a young artist, she struggles with insecurity. On this journey of self-discovery, she comes to realizes that the key to fulfilment of her life dreams is that she must learn to love herself first.”
“Katy Perry’s journey to stardom is personified in Melody and given her passion throughout her career to be an inspiration to her fans, she is the perfect collaborator for our animated extravaganza.”
The musical feature follows a kind-hearted, insecure singer named Melody. She must overcome the devious plans of Rose Stellar, a jealous pop queen who has vowed to destroy her.
Set in New York City, Melody is an inspirational story of self-discovery that emphasizes kindness, determination, and self-love.
CAA Media Finance represents the worldwide distribution rights to Melody, with Rocket Science co-representing foreign sales.