WW2 New York Adventure: ‘Children of Liberty’ Animation by ‘Ernest & Celestine’ Producers!

Urban, a Paris-based sales company, has recently joined the production of “Children of Liberty,” an animated adventure set in New York. This project involves the Oscar-nominated producers known for their work on “Ernest & Celestine.”

The film is an adaptation of Robert H. Lieberman’s novel “The Nazis, My Father and Me” and is produced by Didier and Damien Brunner of Folivari. The direction of the film is handled by Rémy Schaepman and Léahn Vivier-Chapas.

Robert H. Lieberman, who was born in the Bronx to parents who survived the Holocaust, collaborated on the screenplay. His novel received acclaim upon its release, even being highlighted by the New York Times for its keen observation of humor amidst troubling times. Set in 1941 New York, just before America’s entry into WWII, the narrative centers on 12-year-old Steven. He finds himself lost in the bustling environment of Manhattan’s Grand Central Station and becomes suspicious that his father may be a Nazi spy. With the assistance of Miriam, a 14-year-old Jewish refugee, Steven embarks on a perilous journey through New York’s complex streets. As Europe is engulfed in war, they uncover dangers and secrets that test their notions of family and friendship, ultimately altering their childhoods permanently.

Damien Brunner, CEO of Folivari, commented that “‘Children of Liberty’ addresses themes of friendship, heritage, memory, and a burdensome past.”

“This film has personal resonance reflecting our family’s own history, filled with fractures and secrets emerging through silence,” Brunner elaborated, describing the film as a war narrative seen through the innocent eyes of children, which brings a unique perspective of courage, truth, and sometimes hope.

Didier Brunner, a prominent figure in French animation, boasts several Oscar nominations for his works including “The Old Lady and the Pigeons,” “The Triplets of Belleville,” “The Secret of Kells,” and “Ernest and Celestine.”

“Children of Liberty” is expected to be released in the fall of 2026 and has garnered support from notable co-producers in the animation field such as Luxembourg’s Studio Melusine (known for “Richard the Stork”) and Tchack (“Mars Express”). The distribution in France will be managed by KMBO.

Frédéric Corvez, CEO of Urban, praised Folivari’s exceptional ability to craft family-oriented animated content that blends adventurous storytelling with innovative animation techniques. He remarked that “Children of Liberty” exemplifies this tradition and addresses complex historical themes that continue to echo in modern American discourse.

Urban is also promoting other notable projects, including the CGI-animated “Space Cadet,” which premiered in North America at Toronto, and “If we don’t burn, how do we light up the night” set to appear at San Sebastian. Additionally, the French romantic comedy “The Doll” featuring Vincent Macaigne and Cécile de France is part of their lineup.