L.A. Publisher Gungnir Announces New Animation Studio
L.A.-based publisher Gungnir has revealed plans to open a new animation studio, which will support a dedicated YouTube channel envisioned as the modern equivalent of Cartoon Network.
Gungnir Animation Studio: A New Venture in Entertainment
The newly formed Gungnir Animation Studio is set to develop original animated series and movies for the Gungnir Animation Network. This channel, intended primarily for YouTube, aims to become a pivotal cultural center for animation and pop culture enthusiasts.
Leadership and Collaborations
Matthew Medney, founder and CEO of Gungnir, has spearheaded the creation of the animation division. He is joined by a talented group including producer Rosa Tran (known for Anomalisa and Robot Chicken), writer Eric W. Phillips (famed for his work on For All Mankind and The Umbrella Academy), and VFX supervisor and executive producer Wayne Brinton (renowned for his work on Deadpool and Game of Thrones).
The studio is further supported by an advisory board of industry veterans such as Ellen Goldsmith-Vein, CEO of Gotham Group and producer of Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere; Curtis Lelash, producer of Adventure Time; former CAA agent Barry Kotler; co-founder and CEO of Inkwell Technology Studios, Oliver Luckett; investor Kathy Schlein; and filmmaker Olan Rogers, creator of Final Space.
Strategic Fundraising and Future Goals
The studio has kickstarted a fundraising initiative aimed at expanding their production capacity and extending their reach globally. “This network creation and the opportunity to craft narratives directly for our audience is an extraordinary endeavor that we approach with great seriousness,” Tran commented. “We face a substantial challenge, so let’s lace up our hiking boots and get started.”
Medney expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “We are plunging into the realm of direct-to-fan animation. Our goal is to completely overhaul the traditional approach and establish the Cartoon Network of the digital age. With a powerful team and strong industry connections, we’re set to unleash a new era of fan-driven narratives.”
Phillips, who is collaborating with Gungnir on adapting his dystopian sci-fi novel Wild North for television, shared his excitement: “Creating daring, innovative stories for an unrestricted platform is what every genre writer hopes for. I am thrilled to be part of building this new creative space, which is ideal for both storytellers and audiences.”
Brinton emphasized the innovative approach of the animation division, “We are restoring control to the artists and transforming the industry’s approach to creativity. By optimizing production processes and developing franchises that resonate deeply with viewers, the studio is set to produce original series and films that truly embody the unique visions of their creators—bold, original, and designed for global appeal.”
Gungnir Animation, which encompasses both the studio and the network, operates under the umbrella of Gungnir Publishing. This setup benefits from a strategic partnership with Macmillan Publishers, which facilitates the integration of their stories across various formats including books, animations, merchandise, and live events.
Daniel Hayes is a business journalist with a focus on market trends, startups, and corporate strategies.
His sharp analysis and investigative reports make complex financial topics accessible to all readers.
