Lupus Films, the animation company behind The Snowman & The Snowdog, has optioned the rights to adapt the classic countryside stories of Brambly Hedge for the screen.
The deal between Lupus Films and the estate of Jill Braklem, the author and illustrator of Brambly Hedge, was brokered by Rockpool Licensing.
The Brambly Hedge series is published by HarperCollins Children’s Books and has sold over seven million copies since the first release in 1980. Focusing on the adventures of a hidden community of mice in the English countryside, the series’ characters have featured on products ranging from china to chocolate, and stationery to figurines.
Now, on the 40th anniversary of its original publication, Lupus Films is set to bring the world of Brambly Hedge to audiences old and new, alongside a refreshed licensing campaign run by Rockpool, which represents the brand globally.
HarperCollins will launch a celebratory publishing programme to commemorate the 40th anniversary in October 2020. Meanwhile, Lupus is initially developing the property as a Christmas special, with further episodes to follow shortly after.
Vickie O’Malley, managing director, Rockpool Licensing, said: “We are really looking forward to bringing a beautiful new version of this classic British brand to life and are actively seeking partners across a variety of categories including gifting, homeware, collectibles, puzzles and paper product.”
Ruth Fielding, joint MD, Lupus Films, added: “The Brambly Hedge characters stand tail to tail with the most classic British literary characters and we cannot wait to delve into the hedgerows and fields of the British countryside to reveal the secrets and folklore of this hidden little community of animals.”
Lizzie Barklem, Brambly Hedge estate, concluded: “We’re delighted to have teamed up with Lupus who have a fantastic track record of translating beautifully illustrated books on to the screen. 2020 is the 40th anniversary of Brambly Hedge so the timing is perfect for introducing the mice to a brand new generation.”
