Charades, Mikrofilm and GKIDS are bringing the animated horror film, Pesta.

The film marks writer-director Hanne Berkaakmakes feature debut.

The story is set in 1349 Norway, as the Black Death fuels fear and superstition. A noble girl, Astrid, experiences first love with a musician deemed unholy and dangerous. When the boy is accused of witchcraft, Astrid is pushed to question the truths she has been taught to obey.

The film is currently in development for an expected 2029 release, with Mikrofilm, Charades, Rosalie Films, and Knudsen Pictures producing.

“With Pesta, our goal is to create characters that are complex and relatable to a contemporary young adult audience, even though the story unfolds in a medieval world,” said Berkaak.

He continues, “Catastrophes expose structural illusions a society is built upon, and often have a way of bringing people together. The Black Death is considered one of the greatest disasters in human history. But even in this darkest hour, some people survived. And the world they went on to build became more just and equal.”

“It brings together everything we love about animation — a unique visual language coupled with strong storytelling and a passionate and experienced team around it,” Charades added. “It’s very seldom we come across horrific romances that feel topical and contemporary despite being set in the medieval era.”

Charades will present Pesta at the European Film Market in Berlin as part of the Annecy Animation Showcase.

Variety first reported on Pesta.