Two animation studios, one based in Mexico and one in Germany, have announced plans to collaborate on an animated family film. The movie, titled “Halloween vs Day of the Dead,” will be produced by Lunch Films of Mexico and Studio 100 International of Germany. It will explore universal themes of friendship and cultural understanding through the lens of the holidays Halloween and Day of the Dead.
Directed by Celso Garcia of Lunch Films, the film will blend 2D and 3D animation styles. Garcia is an experienced animation director known for work with Guillermo del Toro and productions for Netflix and other major studios. Veteran producer Gerry Cardoso will also contribute expertise to the project. The movie is set in a colorful “steampunk” world inspired by both Halloween and Day of the Dead traditions.
The story follows two young characters – Pumpkin, a boy from Halloween Town, and Bony Lu, a girl from the Day of the Dead community. They embark on a quest to heal divisions between their towns, aided by new friends. Garcia said the film aims to “respectfully and beautifully” portray both holidays and bring their cultures together. It will show “the timeless tale of children born into opposing places yet trying to reunite their separate communities.”
Representatives from both studios praised the collaboration’s potential. Thorsten Wegener from Studio 100 called it a “creative journey” blending the partners’ storytelling skills. He believes the animated film, combining vivid visuals and an emotional story, will appeal to families worldwide while celebrating cultural diversity.
The movie is scheduled for release in both 2D and 3D formats. It promises to use the universal themes of friendship, family and self-discovery to showcase traditions from Halloween and Day of the Dead in a unique visual style.
