Jeep Brand and Genesis Orlando, a digital animation production company, have entered into a licensing and marketing agreement to launch the animated film property, TUGGER, THE JEEP 4X4 WHO WANTED TO FLY. Genesis Orlando created the story, which centers on a Jeep vehicle who dreams of flying like an airplane. The film is being released in connection with the official launch of the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee in fall 2004.
"TUGGER is a great asset to help launch the all-new 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee," said Jeff Bell, vp Jeep and Chrysler Marketing, "The animated character upholds the Jeep brands reputation for innovation and the go anywhere do anything spirit of the Jeep brand."
Principle marketing will be directed through BBDO Detroit, advertising agency for Chrysler Group. Key licensing will be handled through the Joester/Loria licensing group in New York City.
In addition, the Stewart & Stevenson Company "TUG Tractor" of Marietta Georgia and Genesis Orlando have teamed to co-develop a TUGGER spin-off series called TIMMY THE TINY TUG. Additionally, Genesis has signed a production, licensing and marketing partnership with Maxine Clark's "Build A Bear Workshop" of St. Louis. Genesis Orlando is producing the first BUILD A BEAR CG animated film based on the famous BUILD A BEAR characters. The film is set for release in late 2005.
Other Genesis Orlando projects include GEEBEE THE RACER, for Kermit Weeks and his FANTASY OF FLIGHT theme park in Orlando Florida; FUTUREBALL, a sci-fi/action film based on a new sport concept; and THE ADVENTURES OF TOBY DIGZ, a children's adventure series based on the David Hernandez comic novels published by Tommy Nelson Publishing.
A three-year-old CG animation house, Genesis Orlando is a boutique production company that maintains a staff of 25 storyboard artists, writers, modelers, animators and technicians. Founded by an ex-Disney supervising animator with 27 years in the feature animation industry, Genesis has successfully made the jump from outsource animation facility to original content producer. For further information, call (407) 566-1722 or visit www.genesisorlando.com.
Rick DeMott
Animation World Network
Creator of Rick's Flicks Picks
