Marvel Studios Nabs Animation Studio Squeeze for ‘What If…?’ Disney Plus Series
More animated original content is coming to Disney+ thanks to Marvel Studios. According to Variety, Marvel Studios has commissioned Quebec-based animation studio Squeeze to create five episodes of “What If…?,” the first animated series in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
The show follows from the comic book series of the same name, which “explores alternative histories for key characters and supporting characters from the Marvel Cinematic Universe,” Variety stated. “Each episode will explore a pivotal moment from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, and turn it on its head, leading the audience into uncharted territory.”
“Marvel was looking for a world-class animation studio to come up with a fresh and unique style that would be in keeping with their brand essence,” Squeeze CEO and co-founder Denis Doré stated. “We really clicked, right from our initial talks in Los Angeles last year, and they loved our proposal. I’m thrilled that our artists’ creativity and talent resonated so strongly in Hollywood.”
The first series, which will launch in 2021, is made up of 10 episodes.
The news comes as fellow competitor Netflix has been ramping up their animated series portfolio. Just last week, news came out that the streaming giant signed a deal with Oscar-winning writer Taika Waititi to write, direct and executive produce two original animated series based off of Roald Dahl’s books, according to The Hollywood Reporter.
Waititi will create the first series based on the world of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” and for the second, he will take an entirely original spin on the beloved Oompa-Loompas.
The company also got two Oscar nominations for best animated feature this year— “Klaus” and “I Lost My Body” — and “Klaus” was seen in 30 million homes during its first month, per the streamer.
In November, Netflix signed a multiyear licensing deal with Nickelodeon for original animated movies and television series. Specials will be based on “The Loud House” and “Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle.”