Annecy Buzz: Xilam's 'The Wolf' Greenlit for Psychological Thriller

Academy Award-nominated Xilam Films has greenlit its adult animated psychological thriller, "The Wolf," with production commencing soon for an expected April 2027 delivery. This feature film is an adaptation of Jean-Marc Rochette's graphic novel of the same name.

Benjamin Massoubre and Fursy Tessier, who previously collaborated on "I Lost My Body," are co-writing and directing "The Wolf." The film's voice cast features César Award winner Roschdy Zem and Cannes Film Festival 2026 shared 'Best Actress' winner Virginie Efira.

Set in the Alps, "The Wolf" tells the story of Gaspard, a shepherd haunted by loss who seeks vengeance after a wolf attacks his flock. The film explores themes of sorrow and guilt, promising a combination of dramatic force and thematic depth.

International sales are handled by Goodfellas, with ARP distributing in France. Crunchyroll has pre-bought worldwide SVOD rights, excluding China and Japan, marking a significant move for the platform into European author-driven animation.

Beyond "The Wolf," Xilam Films is presenting a robust slate at the Annecy Animation Film Festival, including the feature "Lucy Lost" and the series "The Doomies" and "Submarine Jim." The studio, employing over 400 individuals, was ranked France's leading animation studio for 2018-2023.