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Imagi and Wowwee in Toy Distribution Deal

Imagi Animation Studios today announced that it has established a strategic relationship with Wowwee Ltd., a privately owned, Hong Kong-based company with a worldwide sales and distribution network, to market and distribute toys based on the studio's next two CG-animated feature films, GATCHAMAN and ASTRO BOY. Under the agreement, Wowwee -- the recognized leader in the manufacturing of innovative hi-tech consumer robotic and entertainment products -- will be the exclusive distributor in global markets (excepting Japan and China) for toy lines developed by Imagi and its OEM partner, Wah Shing Toys, Ltd.

The GATCHAMAN and ASTRO BOY toy lines are expected to include action figures, vehicles, playsets, robotic figures, activity toys, and plush. Wowwee is providing some of its proprietary technology for advanced robotics and flying vehicles. In all cases, the designs and play patterns of the toys will closely replicate the look and story line of the films.

"All too often, film-licensed toys fail to live up to kids' expectations, because they fall so far short of what the kids see on the movie screen," said Douglas Glen, Imagi's Co-CEO and Chief Production Officer. "But in the case of GATCHAMAN and ASTRO BOY, the filmmakers are working closely with the toy designers to make toys that are as innovative and feature-rich as the films themselves."

"We're combining the most advanced technology in the toy industry with creative ideas from two great animated action movies," said Eric Lau, Chief Operating Officer of Wowwee Ltd. "Our sophisticated toys will surprise and delight consumers with features and play depth they've never before enjoyed in film based products."

The toys are scheduled to ship concurrently with the theatrical releases of the two CG-animated films in 2009.

Jon Hofferman's picture
Jon Hofferman is a freelance writer and editor based in Los Angeles. He is also the creator of the Classical Composers Poster, an educational and decorative music timeline chart that makes a wonderful gift.
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