Ankama Animations Acquires Majority Stake in Andarta Pictures to Rescue Ewilan's Quest Adaptation
The deal gives new life to Andarta Pictures, lifting the studio out of financial distress and ensuring the continuation of its ambitious 2D adaptation of Pierre Bottero’s beloved fantasy series.
Ankama Animations Acquires Majority Stake in Andarta Pictures to Rescue Ewilan's Quest Adaptation
French animation studio Ankama, known internationally for its Dofus and Wakfu transmedia universes, has taken a 51% controlling stake in Andarta Pictures, a 2D-focused animation house based in Valence. The announcement, made on August 11, marks a pivotal moment for the embattled indie studio, which officially exits court-supervised recovery proceedings thanks to the investment.
This acquisition ensures the continuity of Andarta’s flagship project, the animated adaptation of La Quête d’Ewilan (Ewilan’s Quest), a best-selling French fantasy novel by Pierre Bottero. Praised for its artistic ambition and narrative fidelity to the original books, the series is already in production and now has renewed momentum with Ankama’s backing.
“This alliance brings together two studios with the same vision: independent, meaningful animation driven by artistic integrity,” said Anthony Roux, founder of Ankama. “Together, we aim to craft bold narrative sagas that blend epic adventure with inner journeys.”
A New Chapter for Two Visionary Studios
While Ewilan’s Quest remains the most visible project in the pipeline, both studios are already looking ahead. The merger promises new formats, original IP development, and transmedia extensions, with Ankama bringing its experience in building rich narrative ecosystems and Andarta contributing its signature artisanal, story-driven craft.
Ankama’s move reflects a strategic investment in premium, auteur-driven animation at a time when French studios are gaining increasing international visibility. With its emphasis on independence, fantasy storytelling, and creative control, this partnership signals that the French animation sector remains not only resilient but actively expanding.