Following its participation in the pitching session at Animation Next: Italy, held as part of MIA Market on 22 October, Polydont Films outlines its vision for expanding its original animated comedy for teens, Mazukta & Shambabukli, beyond the screen into gaming, digital content, publishing, audience-driven experiences and a creative community.
At the heart of Mazukta & Shambabukli is a playful exploration of how worlds are imagined and brought to life. The series’ central characters approach creation in very different ways, leading to disagreements, experiments, unexpected mistakes and comic encounters.
Combining a distinctive visual identity with humour, fantasy and imaginative world-building, the 2D animated comedy is designed for an international audience.
Elena Lyalina, CEO of Polydont Films:
We see teenagers not just as an audience to entertain, but as a community of creators. They have grown up in a culture where creating and sharing worlds — through games and platforms such as Minecraft — is a natural part of self-expression. We believe this spirit can help Mazukta & Shambabukli grow beyond the series into a creative universe shaped by its audience. Some will discover it through the show, others through games, products or the fan community, and some simply because a friend shared something they created.
The show is the starting point. Creativity is what brings people together. Creating is a fundamental human need, and our ambition is to inspire people to rediscover it, express themselves and see the world around them as a canvas for creativity. When people come not just to follow the stories, but to create, share ideas and inspire each other, the community can grow and evolve in its own right.
Currently in production, Mazukta & Shambabukli is planned for delivery in 2027 and consists 26 episodes. The project forms part of Polydont’s expansion beyond preschool audiences, alongside its vertical micro-format Roman Pigeons.
