NH vod
Case Study: “ViQueens” – The Anatomy of a High-Concept European Animated Feature and Its Global Theatrical Ambition
A behind-the-scenes case study of how “ViQueens” evolved from a bold reimagining of the Viking world into a high-concept animated feature designed for a global theatrical audience. This inventive family film flips traditional Viking tropes on their head by trading brute masculinity for a bold, female-led comedy adventure.
Veslemøy Ruud Zwart, producer and writer from Zwart Arbeid, will share how a small Norwegian team can build a film with the scale, visual impact, and commercial DNA of a global animated blockbuster—while retaining a distinct identity and finding new ways to make the economics work. From navigating international financing structures and global sales strategies with Sola Media to securing top-tier talent, this session delivers a practical roadmap for independent producers leaning on European budgets, striving for global scope, strong storytelling craft, and cinematic excellence.
Key facts about the movie:
Length: approx. 87 minutes
Genre: Family, Adventure, Comedy
Estimated Delivery: Q4/2026
Language: English
Director: Harald Zwart
Production Company: Zwart Arbeid and Karve
Producer: Veslemøy Ruud Zwart
Gimpville: Animation Studio
OPCM: Post Production
Composer: Christophe Beck
Cast: Ella Purnell, Rita Ora, Alan Carr, Steve Speirs, Michele Moran, Anton Lesser
Year of Production: 2026
Read more about the movie: https://viqueensthemovie.com/en/
Time: 17.15-18.30
Speaker
Veslemøy Ruud Zwart
Producer and Writer
Zwart Arbeid
Norway
As writer, producer, and CEO of Zwart Arbeid, Veslemøy Ruud Zwart has led “ViQueens” from concept to full-scale international production. She has shaped the story, secured both talent and substantial financing, defined the creative vision, and personally assembled a team of world-leading partners who are now breaking new ground in animation, marketing, and postproduction.
Having already been sold to several major territories, “ViQueens” is building significant momentum more than a year ahead of its theatrical release.
Moderator
David Kleeman
SVP of Global Trends
Dubit
USA
David Kleeman is SVP of Global Trends for Dubit, a research firm and games studio, and founder of consultancy Playvangelist. As a strategist, analyst, author, speaker and connector, he has led the children’s media industry in developing sustainable, kid-friendly practices for 35+ years. David’s perspective is that for all that changes, children’s development and needs remain constant.
David is advisory board chair to the worldwide children’s TV festival PRIX JEUNESSE and on the board of the US Children’s Media Association. In 2023, he was inducted into the Children’s and Family Emmy Silver Circle, for 25+ years of service.