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Messaging Apps TenCent Turner Broadcasting

Turner and Tencent partner to create a film about an emoticon rabbit

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By Charlotte McEleny, Asia Editor

September 20, 2016 | 2 min read

Turner Asia Pacific and Tencent Pictures are planning on releasing a film about Tuzki, the emoticon rabbit that’s risen to fame on messaging apps, by 2018.

Tuzki

Tencent and Turner are making Tuzki the movie

The film, which will be a mix of CGI and live-action, will be the first feature-length production for the Turner-owned character which turns 10 this year. It follows in the footsteps of other famous digital characters, such as social gaming phenomenon Angry Birds which launched its first major film last year, springing off major brand partnerships such as McDonald’s.

Tuzki has been in a range of short animations but is mainly famous for being an emoticon within messaging apps and services.

Clément Schwebig, Turner’s senior vice president of business development, licensing and China, said: “This announcement is a huge milestone as we look to grow the Tuzki franchise and reinforces Turner’s commitment to its growing business in China. Turner’s dedicated team in Shanghai is really pleased to be working with Tencent Pictures on this project, who themselves are leaders in developing digital IP.

“Through WeChat, Tencent is obviously very familiar with Tuzki, and everyone is excited to see him appear on the big screen. This irrepressible rabbit has already made a strong emotional connection with a generation of young Chinese, and this film will take engagement to the next level,” he said.

Messaging Apps TenCent Turner Broadcasting

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