Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an animated series or feature film cost?
On average across the European Union, an animated series costs around €5,000,000. Feature-length animated films in Europe, meanwhile, have an average budget of €7,200,000, and can often reach as high as €10,000,000. Of course, there are exceptions—small-scale productions that are made for around €3,000,000.
In the credits of animated series and at the end of feature films, you can see hundreds of names—and that is the main reason animation is so expensive. An animated film takes between 3 and 5 years to make, involving hundreds of artists, animators, colorists, and others. Each of these artists, in turn, has invested years of hard work and study to learn how to draw, animate, and use the necessary animation software.
Source of information on animated series – Cartoon Forum 2025 – https://www.cartoon-media.eu/assets/files/Cartoon-Forum/2025/CF2025-Final-report-web.pdf
For feature films – Cartoon Movie 2024 – https://www.cartoon-media.eu/assets/files/Cartoon-Movie/2024/Cartoon-Movie-2024-Final-Report.pdf
Can't you use AI?
Animation derives its primary value from the copyrights associated with the production. When using AI to generate images, it is impossible to claim copyright, as AI models rely on vast amounts of data without official permission and without paying royalties to their creators. For this reason, in 2025, Disney and Warner Bros filed multimillion-dollar lawsuits against some of the software companies behind these models, seeking compensation for copyright infringement.
Consequently, generative AI cannot be used in the creation of commercial animated productions—the copyright status simply would not be clear. Furthermore, we consider it unethical to use the work of thousands of colleagues without their permission and without them receiving royalties or compensation for the use of their work.
That is why Studio Zmei does not use generative AI models at any stage of production—everything we do is created by real people.
I'd like to do an internship with you. How do I apply?
I am a designer/animator. How can I apply for a job in the Studio?
At the bottom of this page, you’ll find application forms –
https://studiozmei.com/our-history/
You can also follow us on social media, where we announce when we’re expanding our teams.
I want to get into animation/design. Where should I start?
Stanislav Tsvetkov, co-director of Studio Zmei and Head of the animation department, has a completely free YouTube channel where he explains the basic principles and techniques of animation – https://www.youtube.com/@animacionna.rabotilnica
There are also many online schools and courses on design and drawing in general, such as these:
https://www.youtube.com/c/ProkoTV/videos
https://schoolism.com/
The most important thing is to have a desire to learn and try different things, but also to be consistent. Becoming good at drawing takes time and effort—but it’s worth it. There are plenty of resources online for screenwriting, producing, and so on, and you can also study at a specialized university or school. We’d love for you to show us your progress and see you as interns and animators at Studio Zmei.
I have an idea for an animated film or series. Can you help me bring it to life?
At this time, Studio Zmei is prioritizing projects developed in-house by the studio’s team. If you are looking for a producer, you may contact one of the other studios that are members of the Association of Bulgarian Animation Producers (ABAP).
What happened to "The Golden Apple"???
After exhausting all funding options in Bulgaria and failing to raise the necessary budget for an entire series, “The Golden Apple” became a French-Bulgarian co-production between the French studio Dandelooo and Studio Zmei. The project is currently being developed as a feature film, and we have never stopped refining the concept, style, and plot. Follow Studio Zmei’s social media channels to be the first to hear news about the production. In the “Portfolio” section, you can read more about the production’s development to date.
Get in touch with us
If you have any questions, need additional information, or would like to contact our team, please do not hesitate to write to us. We will be happy to help you!
