Astérix and Obélix are back on screens, delighting fans with a new animated mini-series directed by Alain Chabat, now available on Netflix. The series, titled Astérix et Obélix: le combat des chefs, is adapted from the iconic comic album of the same name by René Goscinny and Albert Uderzo. Released on April 30, 2025, the series has generated significant excitement among audiences, particularly in France, where the beloved characters have long been cultural icons.
This new adaptation features five episodes, each ranging from 30 to 40 minutes. The plot centers around the druid Panoramix, who forgets the recipe for the magic potion just as Abraracourcix, the chief of the indomitable Gauls, is challenged to a duel by the Romans. This premise sets the stage for a comedic and adventurous narrative that promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Produced by the Toulouse-based animation studio TAT Productions, known for its work on Les As de la Jungle, the series saw the involvement of approximately 380 animators over a four-year period. TAT was chosen by Chabat for its expertise in animation, and the studio has successfully brought the vibrant world of Astérix and Obélix to life.
As the series launched, it was made available in 190 countries and dubbed into nearly 40 languages, including Arabic, Korean, Hebrew, and Mandarin. This extensive localization effort was a collaboration with Editions Albert René, the rights holders to the original comic series. Céleste Surugue, the director general of Editions Albert René, emphasized the importance of preserving the humor and cultural references in the translations, stating, "Netflix did a great job ensuring that the humor traveled well across languages."
Chabat, who also voices Astérix, is joined by a talented cast that includes Gilles Lellouche as Obélix, Thierry Lhermitte as Panoramix, and Laurent Lafitte as César. The series aims to appeal not only to long-time fans of the franchise but also to new audiences, especially in English-speaking countries where Astérix has traditionally had a limited presence.
In addition to the animated series, Editions Albert René is releasing collector's editions of the original 1966 album, Astérix le Gaulois. This album was a significant success upon its release, selling 60,000 copies, while Le Combat des chefs sold 600,000 copies. The re-release is intended to celebrate the legacy of the characters and their enduring popularity.
Despite being a French phenomenon, Astérix has sold over 400 million copies worldwide and is the most translated comic strip globally, available in 120 languages and dialects. This new series is expected to broaden the franchise's appeal, particularly in markets like the United States and the United Kingdom, where the characters have often been relegated to art-house screenings.
In crafting the series, Chabat has incorporated new characters such as Metadata, Potus (short for President of the United States), and Fastanfurious, which reflect contemporary references while maintaining the essence of the original stories. The series also delves into the origins of the characters, providing emotional depth to the narrative. Chabat explained, "We wanted to anchor Astérix and Obélix deeply in their childhood to understand their unbreakable friendship, which is challenged in this adventure."
Fans can expect to see familiar elements from the comics, but with a fresh twist. The animation blends 3D and 2D techniques, creating a visually appealing experience that honors the original comic's aesthetic. Chabat's humor, which has resonated with audiences for years, remains a cornerstone of the series, ensuring that it stays true to the spirit of Goscinny and Uderzo's work.
The series' launch is not just a return to the screen for Astérix and Obélix; it represents a significant moment in the ongoing evolution of the characters. As Chabat noted, "It’s very important that humor travels," highlighting the universal appeal of the stories. The series is set to become a trending topic on Netflix, as it captures the hearts of both young and old viewers alike.
As we celebrate this new chapter in the Astérix saga, fans are also looking forward to future comic adventures, with the next installment, Astérix en Lusitanie, scheduled for release on October 23, 2025. With the continued success of the franchise and the enthusiastic reception of the new series, it seems that the indomitable Gauls will remain a staple of popular culture for years to come.
