The 4th edition of CartoonNext reaffirmed its role as a catalyst for innovation and exchange with animation industry professionals. Various topics such as the emergence of A.I., cross-platform media, licensing & franchise-building, and, of course, What's Next for the animation industry were discussed by talented speakers during inspiring keynotes, panels & case studies.
PARTICIPATION NUMBERS
We were happy to welcome 269 participants from 24 countries. Among them, 33 speakers & experts were attending. 14 keynotes, panels & case studies, as well as 8 pitching sessions were presented during the event.
WHAT'S TO TAKEAWAY FROM CARTOONNEXT 2025
“It doesn’t do anything unless we ask it to”
The rise of A.I. was the central topic at CartoonNext 2025. Keynotes and panels, led by professionals from Unity & Polarity Reversal, explored the many questions it raises. While everyone is still trying to grasp its implications, one thing is clear: we can’t ignore it—it’s set to transform society in profound ways. A.I. won’t replace creators; it’s a tool, not a substitute.But the real question is: how can we, as an industry, integrate it meaningfully? Some may find themselves reaching for more than they ever thought possible; but is that newfound potential real, or just an illusion? It’s important to remember that A.I., for now, is just mimicking what already exists. It still lacks a true understanding of creativity and what it means to be original.
Creativity at the heart of the event
This question was raised during different keynotes, panels & case studies featuring voices from ARTE, ZDF, Mikrofilm, PUBLIKUM and Sacrebleu, centered on what truly distinguishes humans from machines. The dominant theme in the responses was clear: emotions. Creativity is deeply human because it makes people feel. Artists and creators channel their emotions, experiences, and personal stories into their work, it becomes an extension of themselves. As representatives from these companies expressed, humans strive to stay unique and to build meaningful connections with one another through their creations. The future is there for creativity to thrive.
“Transmedia is not only a place to land but also a place to start”
With the likes of Roblox, Webtoons, Minecraft, and VR/AR, speakers from Excurio, ONO, Bura Games, Movimenti Prod & Kalank explained how cross-platform media is increasingly recognized as a legitimate and powerful form of creative expression within the industry. Embracing the present means adapting to new ways of connecting with audiences, especially those who may not respond to more traditional formats. These emerging tools open doors for young, forward-thinking creators to unleash their imagination and approach storytelling from fresh perspectives, ones that may resonate with entirely new audiences.
Multiplatform projects
The projects pitched this year originated from 7 European countries. The main targets were Children (4) and Young Adults/Adults (3) while the last project targeted a Pre-School audience. A wave of bold, imaginative projects burst onto the scene, each powered by rich transmedia storytelling, from animated series and films to digital-first gems, immersive games (mobile, video, live), compelling books, genre-blending music, and cutting-edge AR/VR adventures.
Emerging talents eager to learn
The Coaching Programme is the place to be for young talents from local schools to attend masterclasses and training sessions. For the 2nd year in a row, a Portfolio Review session was organised where groups of students met professionals from the region. A Mini-Pitch Workshop also took place where 6 projects were pitched to a professional jury. More information about the winners and their prizes is available on our website
Connect under the sun
CartoonNext is also the occasion to build your network while enjoying regional food and beverages. What better way to connect with other professionals from the industry than sharing laughter and anecdotes. In addition to our social events, networking moments such as one-to-one meetings and coffee breaks were organized for animation professionals who wish to meet with other participants.
SAVE THE DATE
CartoonNext 2026 will take place from 8 to 10 April 2026.
OUR UPCOMING EVENTS
- Cartoon Forum (15-18 September 2025 in Toulouse, France)
- Cartoon Springboard (28-30 October 2025 in Madrid, Spain)
- Cartoon Business (12-14 November 2025 in Brussels, Belgium)
MANY THANKS TO OUR PARTNERS
The main partners of CartoonNext are Creative Europe - MEDIA, Région Sud Provence Alpes Côte d'Azur, Aix Marseille Provence Métropole, SudAnim and Ville de Marseille.