Two iconic characters from the world of children’s films soon celebrate their return to the big screen. It is up to new generations to get to know them, or older viewers to reminisce about previous encounters. Both characters are situated in the horror sphere, although there is a world of difference between the gentle universe of the little ghost Laban and of Nelly Rapp’s horror fantasies.
In 2006, the Swedish little ghost Laban (a character from Inger Sandberg’s books) first appeared on screen in a series of short cartoons. The delightful stories were quickly picked up by the children’s film circuit, and between 2006 and 2010, at least three compilations for the very youngest viewers not only toured the festivals but were also successfully released in cinemas in several European countries. Courtesy of the charming title character: Midnight is the time for ghosts to go to work, but not for little Laban. Scaring people… he doesn’t know how to do that. Moreover, Laban is afraid of the dark!
Now, the little white creature returns with new adventures in LITTLE GHOST LABAN – BACK AGAIN! He lives in Gomorronsol Castle with Mummy and Daddy Ghost, and his daring little sister Labolina, who can mimic all sounds in the world. In the castle, he regularly meets with the King and Queen, and with Laban’s very best friends, Princess Busan and Prince Bus. Directed by Lasse Persson, Laban has lost none of his charm; in this new series of short films (6 x 7′), he is still the cutest ghost in the world!
SF Studios has announced the third and final episode of the Nelly Rapp trilogy to premiere in 2026. NELLY RAPP – THE GATE TO THE UNDERWORLD once again follows the tribulations of the young monster agent. “We’re bringing laughter, tears, and unforgettable villains that will light up the big screen!” says Jonathan Ridings, producer at SF Studios, while REinvent handles international sales. Filming is set to begin in October 2025, and audiences can expect a theatrical release in 2026.
When Nelly Rapp reunites with her mother, she learns that a terrible danger is lurking. An ancient vampire has broken free and plans to open the gateway to the underworld, where a long-dormant evil is waiting to be unleashed. With her friends by her side, Nelly must stop the vampire before disaster strikes. As is common in Nelly Rapp movies, the line between good and evil is often blurred.
SF’s previous Nelly Rapp films, MONSTER AGENT and THE SECRET OF THE BLACK FOREST, were both box office successes in Swedish cinemas. The film is co-produced by Film i Väst and Sveriges Television with support from the Swedish Film Institute and the Swedish Agency for Economic & Regional Growth.