Miramax has acquired a trio of classic animated stories produced by former Beatle legend Sir Paul McCartney. TROPIC ISLAND HUM, TUESDAY and RUPERT & THE FROG SONG are scheduled to be released on DVD and video in spring 2004 as part of Miramax's Family Home Entertainment. McCartney and Miramax co-chair Harvey Weinstein most recently collaborated on THE CONCERT FOR NEW YORK CITY, which raised $35 million for the victims of 9/11.
McCartney worked with long-time collaborator Geoff Dunbar to create additional special effects in order to enhance the animation. In addition, newly recorded live-action footage -- featuring McCartney himself -- will be included.
"While the world knows Paul as a creative, musical genius, he is also a master of animation and I'm thrilled to be working with him again," said Weinstein. "In keeping with the great Disney tradition, these three titles are breathtaking and will be a real treat for families to watch together."
"I've loved animation since I was a little kid and I'm proud that Harvey and Miramax are handling the release of these three little gems," said McCartney.
Jeff Tahler, vp of acquisitions, is overseeing the project for Miramax in New York and Colin Vaines, evp of European production and development, is handling the project for Miramax in the U.K.
Stuart Ford, evp and co-head of Miramax International, negotiated the agreement on behalf of the company. Lee Eastman of Eastman & Eastman negotiated the agreement on behalf of McCartney.
Bill Desowitz, former editor of VFXWorld, is currently the Crafts Editor of IndieWire.
