Genius Brands appoints Brands with Influence as UK agent

Genius Brands International has appointed award-winning agency Brands with Influence as its exclusive licensing agent in the U.K. for the Company’s portfolio of IP.

Brands with Influence will be responsible for creating licensing, merchandising and retail programmes for Genius Brands’ slate of properties, including the Stan Lee brand, from the legendary Marvel creator, which the global media children’s company manages and controls following a joint venture announced in 2020 with Stan Lee’s POW! Entertainment.

Additional IP from the Genius Brands’ catalogue that Brands with Influence will represent include Stan Lee’s Superhero Kindergarten, starring Arnold Schwarzenegger, Rainbow Rangers, and more.

Genius Brands’ Chief Brand Officer Kerry Phelan says: “Stan Lee is a global icon who inspirational messages of hope, diversity and inclusivity have resonated globally for decades. It is of vital importance to us to find partners that understand our vision for the Stan Lee brand and can be trusted to deliver on Stan’s values and lasting legacy. We are thrilled to bring Brands with Influence on board to develop programmes across the U.K. for Stan Lee and our entire portfolio of brands and look forward to more exciting developments in the months to come.”

Martin Lowde, MD Brands with Influence, says: “Like millions across the world, we are massive fans of the legendary work of Stan Lee – he is the ‘Godfather of Marvel Comics’. We look forward to working with Kerry and the Genius Brands team to create a consumer products programme that honours his legacy, as well as developing unique programmes for their library of original children’s brands.”

Cityneon wins Lumiere Award for VR Machu Picchu experience

Cityneon‘s VR experience, Machu Picchu and the Spirit of the Condor, has won the Best Use of VR category at the 12th annual Lumiere Awards.

The company was honoured alongside many top industry names in global film, television, and gaming studios in the awards ceremony, held at the Beverly Hills Hotel in Los Angeles, California.

Cityneon’s Machu Picchu and the Spirit of the Condor features the first-ever virtual showcase of the UNESCO World Heritage Site in Peru. Through the utilisation of patented VR motion chairs fully equipped with multi-sensory stimulation features such as high-resolution six degrees of freedom (6-DOF) VR headsets, haptic feedback on the backseats, scent dispensers and unlimited 360-degree rotation, the VR experience is featured as the highlight of the company’s Original Artefact IP Experience – Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru.

“We are ecstatic to receive this prestigious award,” says Ron Tan, Executive Chairman & Group CEO of Cityneon Holdings. “This award not only recognises the wonderful potential of virtual reality in capturing the world around us, but it is also a testament to Cityneon’s expertise in innovative technologies that empowers the Group to bring immersive entertainment to a whole new level.”

As a global leader of immersive experiences, Cityneon seeks to capture the imagination of their visitors and deliver compelling experiences that will shape the future of the experience entertainment industry. Their enduring partnerships with global partners such as Disney, Marvel, Hasbro, Universal, Lionsgate, and 20th Century Studios, and the Peruvian and Egyptian governments, drive the company to produce world-class experiences for millions of visitors each year.

Machu Picchu and the Golden Empires of Peru launched last October at the Boca Raton Museum of Art in Florida and the experience will be travelling to Paris at the City of Architecture and Heritage, Palais de Chaillot, on 16 April 2022. The Group also launched the world premiere of Ramses the Great and the Gold of the Pharaohs in Houston, Texas, last November.

Apart from the two artefact IPs, the Group also holds studio IP rights including partnerships with 20th Century Studios for Avatar: The Exhibition, Universal Studios for Jurassic World: The Exhibition, Marvel for Marvel Avengers S.T.A.T.I.O.N. – debuting in Tokyo this April – Lionsgate for The Hunger Games: The Exhibition, and Hasbro for Transformers: The Experience.

Cityneon has also recently announced a partnership with Warner Bros. Themed Entertainment to produce two unique global touring themed art experiences inspired by DC Comics and the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, slated to launch in 2023.

To support its global endeavours, Cityneon has announced its expansion into Qatar to cater to markets in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa, and the launch of a new R&D facility in Wuxi, China, to further expand its capabilities in entertainment robotics.

 

MGM powers up Vikings: Valhalla licensing programme following successful Netflix debut

On the heels of the recent Netflix series debut of Vikings: Valhalla, MGM is building momentum for the legendary brand with an action-packed licensing programme spanning all merchandise categories. 

Following on from the immense success of Vikings, which transported viewers to the world of Viking warrior Ragnar Lothbrok, and garnered an incredible 625 million cumulative views across its six seasons and 89 episodes, MGM Television’s Vikings: Valhalla is the newest chapter to thrill the franchise’s army of fans.

Set 100 years after the original series, it dramatically tells the stories of the most famous Vikings who ever lived: Leif Erikson and his sister Freydis, Harald Hardrada and Norman King William the Conqueror. Vikings: Valhalla Season One premiered on February 25 and ranks #1 on the Netflix Top 10 for the week of 2/28 with 113.38M hours viewed, making the Top 10 in 90 countries. The series garnered 80.5M hours viewed during its first two days the week prior, bringing it to an impressive 194M hours viewed in its first nine days.

For the original Vikings, MGM created a global licensing programme featuring more than 30 licensees across apparel, collectibles, publishing, novelty, and gaming. Now, MGM is building an expansive licensing programme for Vikings: Valhalla, with an extensive list of partners already signed on for the journey.

New products, available in the US and Europe, span all categories  and include apparel and accessories from Hot Topic, C&A Modas, Marketing Licensed Products, Hybris Productions, TatooedNow!, Nastrovje and Ecell Global. Viking-inspired costumes are also available from Fungilobal Development, along with collectibles, toys/games and decor from GB Eye and Winning Moves International.

These products are all designed with colours and styles specific to each Viking “clan,” making it a true Viking experience for fans of the hit series. MGM is also planning to expand Vikings: Valhalla’s international presence with new partners in South America and Brazil.

Robert Marick, Executive Vice President of Global Consumer Products and Experiences at MGM, says: “The franchise has such a dedicated fan base and we look forward to expanding our licensing programme to create exciting new products that allow people to unleash their inner Viking.”

 

Kartoon Channel! Worldwide expands global reach

Leveraging its strategic investment in Germany’s Your Family Entertainment (YFE) to expand the Kartoon Channel! global footprint, Genius Brands International has announced the launch of the new Kartoon Channel! Worldwide programming block, “Kartoon Genius,” across Latin America and the Middle East & North Africa (MENA) region, reaching 67 countries.

This week, the Kartoon Genius two-hour, Monday – Friday programming block premieres across the MENA region on the pan-regional linear Pay TV channel, fully dubbed in Arabic and English. On March 7, the programming block debuted throughout Central & South America on 24/7 linear, offering content in Spanish and English.

The Kartoon Genius programming blocks offer first-run original content on these platforms and aims to deliver positive entertainment for children and families, underscored by safety and enrichment. Series on the programming block line-up include Stan Lee’s Superhero Kindergarten, Llama Llama, Rainbow Rangers, Warren Buffett’s Secret Millionaires Club, Thomas Edison’s Secret Lab, and more.

Managing Director of Kartoon Channel! Worldwide, Paul Robinson, says: “Positive and uplifting children’s entertainment is more in demand today than ever. Since announcing our commitment to launch the Kartoon Channel! internationally less than three months ago, we are off to a fantastic start with pan-regional launches within the next two weeks across The Middle East, North Africa, Central America and South America on the programme platforms through Genius Brands’ investment in YFE.

“The growth of the Kartoon Channel! over the past two years in the U.S., headed by Jon Ollwerther, has been tremendous.  Despite the global challenges, children’s entertainment is timeless and enduring. We are extremely excited about the many opportunities we have to bring the channel to the rest of the world and to build it into the preeminent entertainment destination for kids.”

Brandgenuity to rep Too Hot to Handle in US and Canada

UK-based licensing agency Brands with Influence has tapped Brandgenuity to serve as the exclusive licensing agency in the US and Canada for blockbuster reality dating show, Too Hot to Handle.   

Brandgenuity will build a robust lifestyle licensing programme for Netflix’s steamiest show. Now in its third season, Too Hot to Handle, produced by Fremantle labels Thames and Talkback, follows serially single contestants on a tropical getaway. The catch? A total sex ban. If they can keep to it, virtual assistant “Lana” is ready to issue rewards and big prize money.

Brands with Influence chose Brandgenuity for the agency’s strategic approach and entertainment experience. “Their team had seen the show and like the rest of us, are addicted. We loved that,” says Martin Lowde, Managing Director of Brands with Influence. “But we also knew that they will be able to help us get to market quickly and in a totally brand-aligned way.”

With season three a Top 3 show in the US (Top 10 in 64 countries) and with more than 20 million followers across its contestants’ social platforms, Too Hot to Handle is arguably the buzziest reality series around. Season three dropped in January 2022 and instantly rocketed again to the streamer’s hot list, racking up over 72 million hours viewed globally.

“We love everything about this show and we know it’s going to be in high demand by licensees, since it’s so top-of-mind for Gen Z viewers,” says said Allison Lort, Vice President, Business Development at Brandgenuity. “Brandgenuity will seek partners in categories including swim and resortwear, beauty, beach gear, accessories and branded collaborations. The agency is confident they can leverage the spicy look and feel and carefree attitude of the show and its memorable content.”

For licensing opportunities, contact info@brandgenuity.com

 

Time Bomb Comics partners with Anderson Entertainment for new anthology

Time Bomb Comics has announced a new partnership with Anderson Entertainment in a deal brokered by Larkshead Licensing. The first publication, Spectrum, will be a 44-page comic anthology featuring three cult titles from the mind of prolific creator Gerry Anderson: New Captain Scarlet, Space Precinct and Terrahawks.

Gerry Anderson’s work was a huge part of the British television landscape from the 1960s to the 1990s, and his shows remain popular with science fiction fans across the globe. The three titles included in Spectrum span the genre from alien fighting to space-based police procedural.

New Captain Scarlet was a reboot of the original 1960s show broadcast in the 1990s. Using CGI as an evolution of the original Supermarionation puppetry, the show followed the titular Captain Scarlet in his battle against the invading Mysteron aliens.

Terrahawks used an altered version of the Supermacromation style, refined with 1980s technology and incorporating latex hand-puppets. The series sees a ragtag group of humans defend Earth after the destruction of NASA.

Finally, the 1990s Space Precinct was a live action series that incorporated puppetry in creating realistic and sophisticated alien characters. A police procedural set in space, it was known for its groundbreaking special effects.

The creative teams for the new anthology are Steve Tanner (writer), Pete Woods (artist) and James Grey (letters) on New Captain Scarlet; Richmond A Clements (writer) and James Gray (art and lettering) on Space Precinct; and Dan Whitehead (writer), Ste Pickford (artist) and James Grey (lettering) on Terrahawks. The cover will be drawn by Steve Pugh, known for his work at DC, Marvel, Dark Horse and 2000AD.

Every aspect of the publication has been personally approved by Jamie Anderson, Managing Director and CCO of Anderson Entertainment, and son of Gerry Anderson. The collaboration is also perfectly timed as it coincides with Time Bomb Comics’ 15th anniversary year and marks an exciting development for the company.

Time Bomb Comics’ chief, Steve Tanner, says: “Spectrum marks the first licensed title released through Time Bomb Comics and I’m delighted it features characters and concepts that are truly warmly recognised around the world.

“Like many of my generation I grew up enjoying the television shows created by Gerry Anderson, and I’m thrilled that we’ve partnered with Anderson Entertainment to create new stories featuring some of his most iconic shows.

New Captain Scarlet, Space Precinct, Terrahawks and Time Bomb Comics – what a combination!”

Jamie Anderson adds: “Seeing these three Anderson titles getting a new lease of life is a real thrill for me. The Time Bomb team has done a fantastic job of building out the worlds, keeping an authentic feeling to the stories, and making stunning-looking strips. I can’t wait for Anderson fans across the globe to enjoy these new stories.”

Spectrum will be opening for pre-order sales on Kickstarter in April with publication later in 2022.

Super Wings fan stars in special episode on Tiny Pop

Alpha Animation and Tiny Pop have partnered for a first-ever initiative which offered a lucky Super Wings fan the chance to star in their very own Super Wings episode.

Finnley Hignett, age 5, from Powys, Wales entered the on-air competition, and won the ultimate “money can’t buy” Super Wings prize. He secured himself a starring role within the popular preschool show, and will make his debut as an animated character alongside Jett and friends in a bespoke episode entitled ‘Super Wings’ Super Sidekick’. The duo travel to Shanghai on a special delivery in an episode which teases new themes from the upcoming Season 6, and features new characters including a high-speed train called Tony.

Leading commercial kids’ channel Tiny Pop will premiere the special episode on Sunday 6 March at 12 noon and 5.30pm before it moves to the Pop Player.

Claudia Dalley, Head of Programming for Pop channels, says: “We are thrilled to partner with Alpha on this innovative and industry-leading initiative. It has been fantastic to offer UK fans a true “money can’t buy” prize opportunity to star alongside their favourite characters and we are looking forward airing this very special episode”.

Super Wings first hit UK screens back in 2017 and is now in its sixth consecutive year with dual broadcast partners Tiny Pop and Cartoonito. The popular animated series follows fun-loving Jett and his friends as they deliver packages around the world. It helps preschoolers learn about different cultures and languages, with every episode highlighting the important values of teamwork, friendship and problem solving.

Antoine Erligmann, Vice President International Media, Alpha Animation, adds: “We are delighted to partner with Tiny Pop on this unique, unprecedented and exciting opportunity to engage fans. It is testament to our global Super Wings animation team in developing such bespoke localised content, and bringing this special episode to life for our prize winner Finnley.”

Super Wings Season 6 launches this year on both Cartoonito and Tiny Pop with 40 new episodes. It features a brand new “World Guardians” theme which tasks the Super Wings crew with protecting the environment.

The master toy range from Alpha includes new transforming characters, updated collector packs and a new World Aircraft that transforms into a huge robot, as seen in the animation.

The Tiny Pop special episode complements a series of promotional activations planned to support the franchise in 2022. Super Wings is supported with significant marketing investment extending across multiple platforms, including linear TV sponsorship, digital pre-roll, parental social media, kids’ press and paid influencer activity.

 

Spin Master renews deal with Warner Bros for DC-inspired toy lines

Spin Master announced today that it has renewed its global licensing agreement with Warner Bros Consumer Products (WBCP) and DC for the iconic Batman franchise and other DC Super Heroes.

Spin Master first joined forces with WBCP in 2018 as the toy licensee for DC in the action figure, playset, roleplay and vehicle categories for the period of 2019-2022. The company has now extended the relationship for a four-year term, beginning in 2023 through to 2026.

“It’s been an honour to work with Warner Bros Consumer Products on this heroic and innovative line of action figures, vehicles and playsets, bringing the adventures and stories of Batman, DC Super Heroes and Super-Villains into fans’ homes around the world,” says Chris Beardall, Spin Master’s President, Toys, and Chief Commercial Officer. “The timing of this renewal is perfect as we head into a blockbuster year for DC, with its incredible slate of feature films hitting the big screen in 2022 coinciding with custom toy collections for each. Our innovative approach to toy design combined with our meticulous attention to detail has helped to achieve record-setting sales for Spin Master’s DC toy line.”

“DC is one of the most iconic brands in the world, and we’re excited to continue our partnership with Spin Master to bring the characters and stories to life through inspired toy collections,” adds Sam Bushy, Senior Vice President and General Manager North America and head of e-commerce for WBCP.

Warner Bros Pictures’ The Batman opens in cinemas on March 4, 2022, and Spin Master’s The Batman toy line-up is available at major toy retailers now.

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LMI to develop UK and Eire licensing programme for The Little Prince

Ahead of the 2023 80th anniversary of the first edition of classic children’s book The Little Prince, LMI will be seeking new partnerships to develop a successful consumer products programme for the UK and Eire for the original illustrations – which are now available for licensing – as well as additional publishing projects including colouring books and activity books.

With more than 200 million books sold globally in 500 languages, the original publication has extended to a cinematic movie, a 3D animated Netflix series, a game with more than 100 million downloads, a theme park attraction, multiple global exhibitions, standalone stores, and a stage show musical.

A new pre-school TV series of 52 x 11 minutes is currently in development. The series, set for a 2023 release, is lead by BAFTA & NFT nominated writer Simon Nicholson, whose many credits include PJ Masks, Paw Patrol, Bob the Builder and Thomas and Friends.

Andrew Maconie, CEO LMI, says: “We are delighted to be working with POMASE [the owner of The Little Prince] and feel that together we can develop some innovative partnerships with key licensees.”

Thomas Rivière, great-grandnephew of Antoine de Saint Exupery and responsible for the estate of Saint Exupéry, adds: “It’s fantastic to be working with Andrew and the team to extend The Little Prince programme to the UK & Eire. LMI are a welcome addition to our expert team of global agents.’’

For further information contact Andrew Maconie, enquiries@lmiuk.com/01425 403430.            

New products and partners for Sinking Ship’s Dino Dana

Canada’s Sinking Ship Entertainment (SSE) has announced that the company’s Dino Dana franchise will continue to stomp across the world with new products and partners.

The upcoming offerings include a Dino Dana audio book published by Recorded Books, a new Dino Dana activity book published by Mango Publishing, and new Dino Dana dinosaur figures – Zuul, Nanotyrannus, and Stygimoloch – released by Safari Ltd., with realistic, accurate details and innovative augmented reality features, set to launch in 2022.

Dino Dana, an Emmy Award-winning series created and directed by Sinking Ship’s J. J. Johnson, follows Dana, a 10-year old girl who loves dinosaurs. Her life changes forever when she’s given a Dino Field Guide, which not only teaches her new things about dinosaurs, but gives her the power to imagine dinosaurs into real life.

Developed as a follow-up to the Dino Dan series, Dino Dana is produced by Sinking Ship Entertainment in association with TVOkids and Amazon Prime. The series premiered in the US and UK on Prime Video in May 2017 and was followed by the release of Dino Dana the Movie, presented by Téléfilm Canada, on Prime Video in September 2020.

“The loving reception to Dino Dana from kids and families across the world has been incredible to see,” says Kate Sanagan, Sinking Ship’s Head of Sales and Distribution. “Education, curiosity, and spreading joy are at the core of Dino Dana and we are always looking for new ways to expand the franchise’s positive impact. From books to toys, we cannot wait to share all of the new and exciting Dino Dana products and partners throughout the year.”

The Dino Dana expansion comes on the heels of another big year for the franchise. Last June, the Museum of Discovery and Science (MODS) in Florida debuted the Dino Dana Experience. The fully immersive experience, complete with Dino Dana the Movie, a touring exhibit, an AR experience and a camp guide, garnered 652 million impressions with an audience reach of 778,000 during its opening weekend. It was the museum’s highest paid attendance in 2021 and had record breaking sales at the retail gift shop. Other museums, including Orlando Science Center, Science Museum of Minnesota, Kentucky Science Center, and Peoria Riverfront Museum, have picked up and begun showing Dino Dana The Movie.

Dino Dana also recently secured additional broadcast partners in Latin America, including Canal Once in Mexico as well as Senal Colombia and Canal Capital in Colombia. Additionally, the Dino Dana Field Guides have sold over 75,000 copies internationally to date. Additional information on the specific timing of the releases will be shared at a later date.