In the following interview with ttvnews, Marijo Arnaiz, Senior Sales Manager, Toonz Media Group, talks about how the group is devoted to curating content for global audiences, with timeless themes and the rich storytelling traditions of Asia.
When it comes to kids’ content, especially for younger viewers, it’s important that shows and movies appeal to the whole family, presenting stories that can engage little ones and older generations alike.
An expert in the production and distribution of kids’ content, Toonz Media Group is deeply committed to crafting compelling stories that resonate with children and families worldwide.
And being located in India, the group also explores the rich storytelling traditions of Asia to share them with global audiences.
In the following interview with ttvnews, Marijo Arnaiz, Senior Sales Manager at Toonz Media Group, shares details about the group’s content highlights and their mission to provide titles that can captivate and inspire young minds and families alike.
What is your current outlook on the kids’ content industry? What do you believe will be the main trends in terms of genres and productions for 2025?
The kids’ content industry enjoys a dedicated viewership across all genres, with animation remaining one of the most beloved formats. However, children’s content has evolved beyond pure entertainment, with infotainment gaining significant traction.
Across these verticals, animation plays a crucial role, bridging education and engagement. The animation industry is no longer limited to children’s entertainment—it is increasingly recognized as family-friendly content. Infotainment, in particular, is emerging as a powerful medium for imparting knowledge in innovative ways, with parents embracing these modern approaches over conventional learning methods.
At Toonz Media Group, we are deeply committed to crafting compelling stories that resonate with children and families worldwide. We actively explore the rich storytelling traditions of Asia, including India, with the vision of sharing them with global audiences. Inclusivity remains at the heart of our narratives, with timeless themes such as friendship, loyalty, diversity, female empowerment, and environmental conservation continuing to captivate and inspire young minds and families alike.
What are the main challenges of producing kids’ content today? What do you look for when it comes to selecting projects for your catalog?
We take pride in showcasing a diverse portfolio, constantly exploring new genres and pushing creative boundaries. Our passion lies in great storytelling, and even in distribution, we actively seek content that excites and engages children and families on a global scale.
Given that our content is designed for young audiences, we are highly selective and responsible in our curation. We stay attuned to emerging trends in the industry, adopting a holistic approach to content creation and acquisition. Beyond storytelling, we also assess a project’s potential for expansion into gaming, licensing, and merchandising, ensuring its appeal extends across multiple platforms.
Which are the star titles from your current catalog for the international market?
We offer a diverse and dynamic catalogue in the TV show category, which includes popular titles such as Witch Detectives, CID Squad, Gabrielle and the Guardians, Mech Car, Zoonicorn, and Aquateam Sea Adventures. In addition, we are developing an exciting new show, Issa’s Edible Adventures, inspired by renowned chef and television personality Aliya Leekong. We also have Paddy Paws by Keith and Emily Chapman in development.
In the feature film category, we have several thrilling projects in the works, including Pierre the Pigeon Hawk and Minibots. Our feature film slate is further enriched by critically acclaimed titles like Bartali’s Bicycle, Emma’s Big Adventures, and Zombie Town, showcasing our commitment to high-quality, engaging content for global audiences.
Unlike older generations, who accessed content solely on linear TV, having content available whenever-wherever they want is the norm for kids today. How do you think the streaming evolution has changed the business of how kids content is distributed?
The rise of streaming has revolutionized kids’ content distribution, shifting from traditional linear TV to an on-demand, data-driven model. Unlike older generations who followed fixed schedules, today’s children expect content anytime, anywhere, prompting platforms to prioritize accessibility and engagement. Subscription-based revenue models have replaced traditional advertising, intensifying. Launching original franchises remains challenging. Data analytics now play a crucial role, allowing platforms to track viewing habits and personalize recommendations, ensuring sustained engagement. Unlike linear TV, streaming services have expanded global reach, fostering cross-cultural collaborations, with regions like India gaining recognition for their talent pool. Ultimately, the shift to streaming ensures that kids’ content remains dynamic, relevant, and accessible while catering to modern audience expectations and industry advancements.
In this regard, which platforms and territories do you currently work with? Which regions do you believe have the biggest potential for your content to grow in?
We have a strong presence across Europe, the U.S., and LATAM, and are now focusing on identifying and tapping into untapped markets, particularly in the Middle East and Africa, which hold significant potential. We are eager to explore these regions and introduce our stories to new audiences. Additionally, we are expanding our content offerings to include live-action and hybrid formats, bringing fresh and innovative perspectives to the screen.
How do you see kids’ content and younger audiences evolving in the coming years?
Kids’ content is evolving rapidly, driven by technological advancements that require an open mind and a readiness to embrace change. The future of kids’ content will not be limited to animation alone; the integration of gaming, visual effects, AR/VR, and transmedia is shaping the next generation of entertainment. Young audiences, who are the first to embrace innovation, are driving these changes, and subsequent businesses must adapt to keep pace. Advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning are already reshaping the animation industry. AI-powered tools are streamlining workflows, automating repetitive tasks, and assisting in complex processes such as character rigging and in-betweening, making animation more efficient. These innovations allow animators to focus on the creative aspects of their work, unlocking new possibilities for storytelling and engagement.
