iFIND Pictures, a top media production company from France, has partnered with Magic Carpet Studios, one of Africa’s leading animation studios based in Nigeria, to create an animated short film titled Leon and the Professor.
This film, which combines 2D and 3D animation, is a landmark collaboration that reflects both studios’ dedication to innovative storytelling and celebrates the deepening cultural and creative connections between France and Nigeria.
The plot of Leon and the Professor follows a young man named Leon and a quirky professor as they embark on an adventure that explores science, mystery, surrealism, and friendship. This narrative not only showcases African creativity and world-class animation but also highlights values shared by France and Nigeria, merging local African storytelling with universal themes that resonate globally.
This project represents the first major collaboration between iFIND Pictures and Magic Carpet Studios, marking a significant step forward in cultural exchange between the two nations. The partnership exemplifies how art and storytelling can bridge geographical divides, creating a platform that strengthens Franco-Nigerian ties through shared artistic expression.
Leon and the Professor has already gained international recognition and is set to premiere at the prestigious Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) in 2024. AFRIFF, which runs from November 3rd to 9th, draws filmmakers, industry professionals, and enthusiasts worldwide, and Leon and the Professor will be showcased as part of the festival’s short film segment, symbolizing a new chapter in global African storytelling.
Francis Nebot, CEO of iFIND Pictures, expressed pride in having the film showcased at AFRIFF, recognizing the importance of collaboration between France and Nigeria in advancing creative partnerships. He emphasized that Leon and the Professor demonstrates the potential of animation to bring dynamic and meaningful African stories to life on the international stage.
His words:
“We are honored to have Leon and the Professor recognized at AFRIFF, a festival that celebrates African cinema and international collaboration. This project signifies the growing creative partnerships between France and Nigeria, as well as our shared commitment to bringing dynamic stories to life through animation.”
Similarly, Ferdinand Adimefe, CEO of Magic Carpet Studios, highlighted the significance of this partnership as part of the studio’s mission to bring African narratives to global platforms. Adimefe noted that the film is a testament to the powerful impact of cross-cultural collaboration, uniting France and Nigeria in a shared vision of creativity and discovery.
“Our partnership with iFIND Pictures reflects our vision to expand African storytelling across global platforms. Leon and the Professor is a project that not only embodies creativity and discovery but also signifies the power of cross-cultural collaboration between France and Nigeria. We are thrilled to showcase it at AFRIFF.”
This collaboration between iFIND Pictures and Magic Carpet Studios illustrates the increasing role of cross-continental partnerships in elevating African storytelling on a global scale. Through the combined strengths of both studios, Leon and the Professor leverages cutting-edge animation and world-class storytelling, underscoring the value of international cooperation in the arts.
The project also received crucial support from the French Embassy in Nigeria, which has actively fostered the growth of the Nigerian animation industry. Since 2022, the embassy has hosted a Nigerian pavilion at the MIFA event in Annecy, promoting Nigerian studios. The embassy’s support has made Leon and the Professor the first Franco-Nigerian co-production in animation to be selected for a major international festival, a milestone in Nigerian animation’s global presence.
