Manga Productions Unveils Trailer for Second Season of Saudi Anime Series Future's Folktales

Riyadh, October 7, 2024 (Saudi Arabia Breaking News) - Manga Productions, a subsidiary of the Mohammed bin Salman Foundation (Misk), has just released the official trailer for the highly anticipated second season of Future's Folktales, also known as Asateer2 Future's Folktales. This Saudi anime series, produced in collaboration with Japan’s renowned Toei Animation studio, will make its debut on November 1 on Shahid and MBC1 in the Middle East and North Africa, and on TV Tokyo in Japan. The series will also reach audiences in North America, Europe, and Latin America, with streaming platforms for these regions set to be announced by the end of the year.

The trailer introduces viewers to the series' beloved characters—Maha and her brothers Rayan and Sultan—who navigate daily challenges under the guidance of their grandmother Asma. Blending futuristic themes with traditional Saudi folktales, Asma’s stories provide inspiration and solutions to the family’s obstacles, bridging Saudi heritage with modern storytelling. The production features contributions from 15 Saudi artists and producers from Manga Productions, who played pivotal roles in character design and creative direction, weaving the rich cultural textures and traditional environments of the Arabian Peninsula into the animation.

Dr. Essam Bukhary, CEO of Manga Productions, expressed pride in the

international reach of Asateer2 Future's Folktales, underscoring its significance as a landmark project in Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning creative industry. "The growing global interest in the distribution of Asateer2 Future's Folktales across various international platforms is clear evidence of the success of our young talents in creating content that meets international standards and can compete on the global stage," he said. Bukhary emphasized Manga Productions' commitment to producing innovative content that reflects Saudi culture and resonates worldwide, positioning Saudi Arabia as a leader in the global creative landscape.

Creative Director Sara Oulddaddah highlighted the role of the new season in enhancing Saudi Arabia’s production capabilities, noting that the series provided a platform for local talents to work closely with international partners at every stage of production. "Through Asateer2, we aim to continue sharing our inspiring Saudi culture, history, and fantasy with the world, while contributing to the growth of Saudi Arabia's creative content industry," Oulddaddah stated. This season promises to offer an even deeper connection to Saudi heritage through a variety of traditional costumes and settings, rendered with intricate detail and artistry.

The second season builds on the success of the first, which amassed over 100 million views worldwide, capturing audiences with its unique blend of heritage and futuristic storytelling. As Saudi Arabia continues to expand its influence in the global media and entertainment sectors, Manga Productions is at the forefront, merging local talent with world-class animation expertise from Japan. This collaboration not only enhances Saudi Arabia’s position in the international creative market but also celebrates the cultural exchange between two nations known for their storytelling traditions.

With Future's Folktales, Manga Productions invites audiences from across the globe to experience Saudi culture in a new and dynamic way, celebrating the past while imagining the future. As it gains momentum on the world stage, the series stands as a testament to Saudi Arabia's dedication to showcasing its rich heritage, fostering creative talent, and cultivating cultural understanding through the universal language of animation.