Sycamore Studios, a kids and family animation studio that brings together a blend of first-class animation and timeless storytelling, has tapped veteran producer Jeremy Latcham (“The Avengers,” “Guardians of the Galaxy”) for the company’s upcoming animated feature, “Zita the Spacegirl,” as an executive producer through his Latcham Pictures banner. Known for producing some of Marvel Studios’ biggest live-action films, “Zita the Spacegirl” marks Latcham’s first foray into animation. Latcham Pictures’ Andrew Pace (“Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves”) will also serve as a producer on the project.
Based on Ben Hatke’s No. 1 New York Times bestselling trilogy, “Zita the Spacegirl” follows an adventurous girl who is propelled into a cosmic adventure when her best friend is abducted by aliens. Zita’s unwavering determination to find her way back home and her courageous sacrifice for others transform her into an intergalactic hero. This beloved children’s graphic novel, published by Macmillan, has garnered over 20 awards and honors, including the prestigious American Library Association Notable Children’s Book, a CYBIL Award and several book of the year awards, including Kirkus and School Library Journal.
“At Sycamore, we believe in telling timeless stories that elevate the vision of our audience,” said CEO Christian McGuigan. “Jeremy brings blockbuster experience, in addition to a deep understanding of how story shapes the heart. We’re thrilled to have him help us bring Zita to life.”
The film, previously announced in December 2024 by Sycamore Studios CEO Christian McGuigan and CCO Timothy Reckart, joins a growing lineup of IP-based features, including “Doctor Dolittle” by Bob Barlen and Cal Brunker (“Paw Patrol: The Movie,” “Paw Patrol: The Mighty Movie”).
Latcham is the producer of “Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves” and “Bad Times at the El Royale.” He serves as a senior adviser to the Wonder Project, where he is developing and producing a slate of films with projects in the works at Amazon/ MGM and Sony Pictures. Latcham also has an overall deal with Hasbro Entertainment, where he is developing a “D&D” sequel and has projects set up at Skydance and Lionsgate. Latcham previously served as senior vice president of production and development at Marvel Studios, where he was an executive producer on “Spider-Man: Homecoming,” “Avengers: Age of Ultron,” “Marvel’s The Avengers” and “Guardians of the Galaxy.” Latcham was also an associate producer on “Iron Man” and a co-producer on “Iron Man 2.”
“Animation opens up a whole new storytelling toolkit, and I couldn’t be happier to launch that journey with Zita the Spacegirl,” said Latcham. “Sycamore Studios brings passion and a level of creativity that truly elevates the project, and their thoughtful approach to storytelling makes them a perfect partner to bring Zita from the page to the screen.”
Latcham is represented by Warren Dern and Kiley Wong at Sloane Offer. The deal was negotiated by McGuigan and Barndon Milostan of Greenberg Glusker.
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