Riyadh, October 8, 2024 – Manga Productions, a subsidiary of the Mohammed bin Salman Foundation (Misk), has officially unveiled the trailer for the highly anticipated second season of the acclaimed Saudi anime series, "Future's Folktales." This exciting continuation, titled Asateer2 Future's Folktales, promises to blend rich cultural narratives with innovative storytelling, and is set to launch on November 1.
Produced in partnership with Japan’s renowned Toei Animation studio, the new season will be available for streaming on the Shahid platform and will also air simultaneously on MBC1 throughout the Middle East and North Africa, as well as TV Tokyo in Japan. Additionally, fans in North America, Europe, and Latin America will have access to the series, with specific platforms to be announced later this year.
The newly released trailer introduces viewers to the central characters, Maha and her brothers, Rayan and Sultan, as they navigate daily challenges. Each episode draws inspiration from the folk tales narrated by their grandmother, Asma, seamlessly intertwining traditional stories with futuristic themes. This unique storytelling approach not only entertains but also preserves the essence of cultural heritage.
Fifteen talented Saudi artists and producers from Manga Productions contributed to the character design and creative direction of the series. Their collaborative efforts showcase a vibrant tapestry of traditional Saudi environments and costumes, presenting the rich cultural diversity of the Arabian Peninsula in a way that has never been portrayed before in animated form.
Dr. Essam Bukhary, CEO of Manga Productions, emphasized the significance of the series' global reach, stating that the burgeoning interest in Asateer2 Future's Folktales across various international platforms is a testament to the success of young Saudi talents in creating content that adheres to global standards. “We remain dedicated to producing innovative works that inspire the new generation and enhance Saudi Arabia's position as a beacon of creativity,” he remarked, highlighting the company’s commitment to quality and excellence in all its projects.
Sara Oulddaddah, Creative Director at Manga Productions, further elaborated on the production process for Asateer2, noting that a focus was placed on enhancing internal production capabilities and nurturing local talent. “Through this series, we aim to share our inspiring Saudi culture, history, and imaginative narratives with the world, while also contributing to the growth of Saudi Arabia's creative content industry,” she said.
The new season aims to build upon the remarkable success of the first installment, which captivated audiences and achieved over 100 million views globally. As Asateer2 Future's Folktales prepares to take flight, it embodies a promising fusion of Saudi creativity and Japanese artistry, poised to resonate with viewers worldwide and further enrich the cultural dialogue between the two nations.