Canadian Animation Spotlight Berlin: Fifteen Dogs, Eliak, Beshader

Variety

by Roberto Prieto

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Canadian Animation Spotlight Berlin highlighted the rising global influence of Canadian animation, showcasing its economic and cultural impact. The event, co-hosted by Telefilm Canada and Kaboom, featured Aneta Ozorek emphasizing that animation is no longer a niche medium but a dominant force in international film markets. With $270 million generated from animation projects since 2017 and over 83% of sales coming from international markets, Canada’s animation sector has become a key player in the global entertainment industry. Joyce Richards, advisor at Telefilm Canada, noted that funding requests for Canadian animated projects have doubled in seven years. This growth is further supported by co-production agreements with over 60 countries, allowing Canadian filmmakers to access international financing and distribution opportunities. These partnerships are particularly valuable for high-cost animation projects, enabling them to compete on a global scale. The spotlight also featured three standout Canadian animation projects: *Fifteen Dogs*, *Eliak*, and *Beshader*. *Fifteen Dogs*, based on André Alexis’s novel, explores themes of identity and consciousness through the story of

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Originally published on Variety on 2/14/2026