(17 April 2007 6:30 pm)

MUMBAI: Toei Animation's popular animated series Ayakashi has been nominated for an animation award at three European film festivals.The announcement was made by it was announced by Toei Animation Co., Ltd Director of the International Department Kanji Kazahaya.

Ayakashi has been selected for competition in the following categories:

" 31st Annecy International Animation Film Festival '07-TV series category
" 14th Stuttgart Festival of Animated Film'07-Animated series category
" 11th Cartoons on the Bay Film Festival '07-Action & Adventure TV series category

Ayakashi is the an animated TV series that weaves three classic Japanese horror stories, The Yotsuya Kaidan, The Tenshu Tales, and Bakeneko Tale, with cutting edge animation technique. The high target series attracted a maximum rating of 5.0 percent and an average rating of 3.5 percent during its broadcast on Fuji TV's midnight timeslot in 2006.

"We are deeply honoured to be among the nominees at three major European film festivals," said Kazahaya. "These nominations are truly a reflection of the talents and dedication of everyone on the Ayakashi production team."

With headquarters in Tokyo and sales offices in Los Angeles, Hong Kong and Paris, Toei Animation ranks among the world's most prolific animation production studios. Toei Animation's operations include animation development and production, and worldwide marketing and program licensing.