The hugely popular collectibles MIJOS will be getting its own animated direct-to-video via Dean Valentine's First Family Ent. (FFE), reports VARIETY. Craig Bartlett (HEY ARNOLD) and Joseph Purdy (RECESS) will be writing the screenplay. MGM Home Ent. will distribute the DVDs through its exclusive first-look deal with FFE. Production should begin on the first DVD in the beginning of next year.
The urban Latino toy line was created by HomieShop founder David Gonzales. Since their introduction in 2000, the figurines have sold more than 10 million units, starting as vending machine toys and eventually being picked up by major retailers such as Wal-Mart, Kmart and Target. The franchise has since spawned four books published by Scholastic and a line of clothing at Wal-Mart and footwear from Buster Brown & Co.
"We believe there is an untapped market for family entertainment which speaks directly to the Hispanic community and we are excited to bring this popular brand to life," said Valentine, the chairman of First Family Entertainment.
First Family Ent. was launched in 2004 by Valentine, former UPN ceo and ex-president of Walt Disney Television and Walt Disney Television Animation; former MGM Home Ent. president Richard Cohen; and former evp/chief strategic officer of Artisan Ent., Nicholas Van Dyk. Its plan is to create niche-oriented DVD-based family entertainment.
Rick DeMott
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