Cannes Queer Animated Comedy ‘Jim Queen’ Scores New Sales at Busan

The animated comedy 'Jim Queen,' which made its debut at the Cannes Film Festival, is continuing its global expansion. Following its first Asian screening at the Busan International Film Festival, the film has secured a new wave of international distribution deals. Global Constellation, the sales arm of the pan-European studio Vuelta, has successfully closed agreements with Prorom to bring the film to the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, and Bulgaria. Additionally, HBO has acquired the first-window pay-TV and SVOD rights for the Eastern European region.

The film's reach extends far beyond these new territories. Folkets Bio has picked up the rights for Sweden, while AS Fidalgo will handle Norway, and Films4You will manage distribution in Portugal. In South America, CDI/LAT-E has acquired the rights for Argentina, Chile, Uruguay, and Paraguay. Negotiations for a South Korean release are currently underway, signaling the film's growing appeal in diverse markets. These new acquisitions build upon an already impressive list of international partners, including distributors in Italy, Germany, Spain, Israel, Australia, Canada, and Brazil.

Set in the vibrant gay scene of Paris, 'Jim Queen' follows the story of Jim, a gym-obsessed influencer whose life is turned upside down by a mysterious virus known as 'Heterosis.' This virus causes gay men to convert to heterosexuality, leading to Jim's sudden social collapse. Abandoned by his followers and peers, Jim finds an unlikely ally in Lucien, a loyal admirer. Together, they embark on a journey through the Marais district to find a renegade doctor who might hold the cure to their predicament.

The film features the English-language voices of Jordan Firstman and Matteo Lane. The creative team behind the project, including writers Nguyen, Athané, Simon Balteaux, and Brice Chevillard, brings a wealth of experience from acclaimed works such as 'The Summit of the Gods' and 'Ernest & Celestine.' Produced by the Paris-based adult animation studio Bobbypills, the film is noted for its distinctive, cartoonish aesthetic and fast-paced, absurd humor, which critics have compared to the style of 'South Park.'

'Jim Queen' has already proven its commercial viability. After its June 17 release in France, it debuted at number three on the box office charts, trailing only major blockbusters like 'Toy Story 5.' It has since surpassed 385,000 admissions and generated over $3 million in revenue. As the film prepares for a 2027 U.S. release, Global Constellation is currently evaluating several offers to ensure the best possible launch for the American market. The film stands as a testament to the growing demand for adult-oriented animation that blends social satire with high-energy storytelling.