'Monster Mia' sets wide Halloween release across 2,700 European screens

Monster Mia, animated family feature is preparing for a wide Halloween-season theatrical rollout across Europe, with plans for a coordinated release spanning approximately 2,700 screens following its world premiere at the Annecy International Animation Film Festival.

As per Deadline, the film, directed by Verena Fels and produced by Austria-based Arx Anima, is being positioned as one of the most ambitious independent animation releases of the season, backed by a broad network of international distributors.

Annecy Premiere Marks Key Launch Moment

Monster Mia will make its world premiere at Annecy as part of the festival’s Official Selection, marking a key milestone for the production ahead of its global rollout strategy.

Produced by Arx Anima in collaboration with PENG! BOOM! TSCHAK! Films and Spain’s Arxlight Pictures, the film reflects a growing push in European animation for large-scale theatrical distribution with family-friendly appeal.

Wide European Distribution Network Secured

International sales are being handled by Sola Media, which has secured a wide range of distribution deals across multiple territories.

Recent agreements include releases in France, the United Kingdom, Benelux, Ireland, Latin America, Taiwan, Iceland, Portugal and Turkey, alongside previously announced deals across Europe, the Middle East and Asia.

The coordinated rollout is expected to deliver one of the broadest independent animation releases in Europe this year.

Halloween-Themed Story Targets Family Audiences

The film follows a rebellious young girl who is sent to the mysterious Rotwood Academy after being expelled from school, where she discovers her classmates are monsters.

With only her pet rat for company, she must navigate a strange new world, survive her circumstances and ultimately learn to embrace her identity.

Director Verena Fels said the film explores themes of belonging and self-acceptance through a fantastical setting designed to resonate with children and families.

Festival Launch Builds Industry Momentum

Sola Media has previously launched the project at AFM, where it steadily built international interest through a series of distribution agreements.

The company described Monster Mia as a visually rich, emotionally driven Halloween adventure with strong theatrical potential for global family audiences.

Following its Annecy debut, the film will now move toward its large-scale European rollout, positioning it as a key animated release for the Halloween season.