Animation gets new focus at Ventana

Obituary: Buenos Aires' Expotoons showcases growth industry -- Buenos Aires' Expotoons, Ventana Sur's second sister event, rolls out its third edition this year, as Latin America's animation industry grows. "Ventana Sur has sparked enormous interest among Latin American countries, which see us as a window to the world of animation," says Expotoons artistic director Maggie Stagnaro. The aim of the mart is to strengthen ties within the region "so we can develop and present Latin America as a block to the international market." The four-day event opens with adventure comedy "Planet 51." A competition will showcase new works, and a market will provide opportunities for co-production, distribution and financing, as well as sales deals. Cartoon Connection, a European training program, will hold its first event at Expotoons. Latin America is expanding with co-production and animation service deals. Argentina's Illusion Studios, for example, is partnering with India's Toonz Animation for "Gaturro," a ... (link)