Meet the people behind the legendary animated series that has become part of the cultural code
The first episode of the animation series about the adventures of Krash, Chiko, Barry, Olga, and the other inhabitants of Chamomile Valley came out in 2003. Over the next twenty years Smeshariki became the biggest Russian animation franchise, with feature-length films, spin-offs, a huge line of merch, and impressive revenue from the sale of distribution rights to other countries, from China to Mexico. Several generations of kids have grown up with the series, and its ball-shaped characters have become their family. What is the secret of their success? Their ability to explain complex things in a simple way. Smeshariki teaches children how to be friends and how to brush their teeth, but their universe also has a place for existentialism, quantum physics, and Jim Jarmusch references. 20 Years with Smeshariki follows the St. Petersburg-based studio and its big team, from directors to animators and voice actors, during their work on the anniversary season. What you will see is the sweetest and kindest success story in the Russian film industry.
20 years with Smeshariki
directors: Stanislav stavinov, anastasia stavinova
russia, 2023. 104 min.
18+
