‘Masha And The Bear’ Creator Oleg Kuzovkov Re-Acquires The IP, Launches New Studio, Plans Feature Film

Oleg Kuzovkov is returning to the world of Masha and the Bear, one of YouTube’s most-watched animated properties, with a new independent studio and the franchise’s first feature film now in pre-production.

Kuzovkov, who created the original series in the late 1990s, has launched Studio MiM LLC following the expiration of his licensing agreement with Animaccord. According to the studio, Kuzovkov has regained exclusive creative control of the characters and plans to develop a new slate of animated features built around a reimagined version of the property.

In a release, the creator explained:

I’m truly touched by this opportunity to expand the world of Masha and the Bear to its first long-form feature. It’s an exciting creative challenge – one that I wholeheartedly embrace – and my wonderfully creative and excited team is equally energized and eager to bring it to life with the same spirit, humor, and heart that made the old series so beloved

The first film is expected to be completed by the end of 2028. Studio MiM says the project will move away from the previous television incarnation while maintaining the character-driven comedy and handcrafted CG aesthetic that helped make the series a global success.

Produced by Animaccord since 2008, Masha and the Bear became one of the most widely viewed children’s properties online. One episode surpassed 4.6 billion YouTube views, earning recognition as the platform’s most-watched non-music video. It has also proved a hit for Netflix, appearing on most-watched lists alongside franchises such as CoComelon, PAW Patrol, Gabby’s Dollhouse, and Peppa Pig.