Ottawa-based animation studio Mercury Filmworks has joined forces with New York City-based prodco Trustbridge Entertainment to develop, produce and distribute 2D-animated preschool series Gustavo (pictured).

The 52 x 11-minute series is based on The World of Gustavo book series by Mexican author-illustrator Flavia Z. Drago, set in a supernatural suburb where three best friends use their powers to save the day.

Robert C. Ramirez (Mickey’s Tale of Two Witches) is attached as showrunner.

Chantal Ling, Mercury’s VP of original series and coproductions, described the show as “the paranormal Peanuts gang meets My Little Ghoulish Pony,” in a statement.

Mercury Filmworks and Trustbridge will debut the series at MIPJunior (Oct. 18 to 20) and MIPCOM (Oct. 21 to 24).

In July, Mercury Filmworks partnered with Angoulême/Paris/Montreal-based prodco Blue Spirit Studios (What If…?) to launch Seraphim, a bespoke animation and production design service with a focus on serving 2D-animated and CG-animated projects.

Image courtesy of Mercury Filmworks