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Rainmaker Announces 'Ratchet and Clank' Feature

3D CG-animated theatrical feature film based on the iconic PlayStation video game franchise enters production for worldwide 2015 release.

Los Angeles, CA -- Fresh off itshittheatrical film release Escape From Planet Earth, animation studio Rainmaker Entertainment has joined with noted independent production company Blockade Entertainment to produce Ratchet and Clank, a CG-Stereoscopic animated theatrical feature film based on the bestselling PlayStation video game franchise published by Sony Computer Entertainment America LLC (SCEA) and developed by acclaimed game developer Insomniac Games. Primary production has begun at Rainmaker’s studio in Vancouver, Canada.

Planned for release in early 2015, the film will be directed by Jericca Cleland and produced by Blockade’s CEO Brad Foxhoven and VP of Development David Wohl, with Rainmaker President Michael Hefferon serving as Executive Producer and Rainmaker’s Kim Dent Wilder and Kylie Ellis serving as Supervising Producer and Producer, respectively. Key talent from the game will also reprise their roles in the film, including James A. Taylor as Ratchet, David Kaye as Clank and Jim Ward as Qwark. Screenwriter and Senior Writer for Insomniac Games, TJ Fixman (One Night on the Hudson, currently in production), penned the screenplay that will maintain the signature dialogue and irreverent humor, both of which have become staples of the franchise.

Ratchet and Clank tells the story of two unlikely heroes as they struggle to stop a vile alien named Chairman Drek from destroying every planet in the Solana Galaxy. Ratchet is the last of his kind – a foolhardy “lombax” who has grown up alone on a backwater planet with no family of his own. Clank is a pint-sized robot with more brains than brawn. When the two stumble upon a dangerous weapon capable of destroying entire planets, they must join forces with a team of colorful heroes called The Galactic Rangers in order to save the galaxy. Along the way they’ll learn about heroism, friendship, and the importance of discovering one’s own identity.

First released in November 2002, the Ratchet and Clankfranchise has been a massive success, quickly becoming one of the most popular titles in the SCEA portfolio. The game has gone on to sell 26 million copies worldwide.

 “Ratchet and Clank is a world-renowned video game franchise that appeals to a broad audience. By working closely with SCEA and Insomniac, we will remain true to the game's expansive mythology while also creating a story that will capture the imagination of those who will be new to this incredible world,” said Foxhoven.

“Following fast on the heels of our studio’s success with Escape From Planet Earth, we are excited to launch into production on the eagerly anticipated Ratchet and Clank feature film together with our partners Blockade Entertainment, SCEA and Insomniac Games. Rainmaker is dedicated to pursuing top brands for our theatrical feature properties – and pursuing production associations with top creative entertainment companies to develop and produce them for worldwide release,” said Hefferon.

“We’ve always thought Ratchet and Clankwould be a fantastic all-ages movie and are thrilled our intergalactic heroes will finally get their chance to shine on the big screen,” said Ted Price, founder and CEO of Insomniac Games. “Insomniac is especially honored to play a hands-on role with the film’s production, including the screenplay, consulting on character development and animation, and adding support to the film's marketing.”

Co-financing was arranged by Film Financial Services (FFS) and includes Rainmaker as the lead investor along with China’s CNHK – part of the Wanda family of companies.

Source: Rainmaker Entertainment

Jennifer Wolfe's picture

Formerly Editor-in-Chief of Animation World Network, Jennifer Wolfe has worked in the Media & Entertainment industry as a writer and PR professional since 2003.

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