Christian McGuigan and Oscar-nominated filmmaker Timothy Reckart have announced the launch of Sycamore Studios, a new animation studio focused on creating high-quality children’s and family content. McGuigan will take on the role of CEO, managing strategy and business operations, while Reckart will serve as Chief Creative Officer, overseeing creative direction and project development.
Sycamore Studios’ inaugural project is an animated adaptation of Hugh Lofting’s beloved children’s classic, Doctor Dolittle. The screenplay will be adapted by writing duo Cal Brunker and Bob Barlen, known for their successful work on Paw Patrol: The Movie and Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie. Their films have collectively earned over $500 million globally.
McGuigan, previously VP of global content strategy at Omnicom’s Porter Novelli and VP at Participant Media, expressed excitement about creating trusted, timeless entertainment for families. Reckart, who directed the Academy Award-nominated short film Head Over Heels and the Golden Globe-nominated feature The Star, emphasized the importance of quality animation that resonates with children and shapes their experiences.
Brunker and Barlen, represented by Entertainment 360 and Frankfurt Kurnit Klein & Selz, bring extensive experience in animation and storytelling to the project. Sycamore Studios aims to establish itself as a leading brand in family entertainment by blending beautiful animation with meaningful stories.
