Jetix Europe has acquired the European pay TV rights to the action-comedy URBAN VERMIN. DECODE Ent.'s CGI series will air on all Jetix Europe Channels starting autumn 2007.
Jetix Europe has also acquired TV distribution (with the exception of France), home video and consumer product rights to the series for Europe. Buena Vista Int'l Television is to service the distribution of television rights to URBAN VERMIN and will launch the 22x26 series at MIP-TV in April 2007.
Produced by DECODE Ent. as a YTV Canada original production, URBAN VERMIN is a battle of good versus evil. Aimed at kids 6-12, the series follows the adventures of two raccoon brothers, Abe and Ken, once the best of friends, now sworn enemies. Whether it's an elaborate attempt to gain control of "the block" by creating a bionic Chihuahua out of garbage, or a smaller scheme to simply embarrass each other, Abe and Ken are caught in a war of petty sibling rivalry that neither of them is prepared to lose.
The concept for URBAN VERMIN WAS developed internally by DECODE's interactive department and was originally a prototype game for console systems. DECODE have produced a host of ancillary digital assets which will be used on Jetix websites across Europe to support the TV launch. This will include the opportunity for kids to watch sneak previews of future episodes.
Paul Taylor, ceo, Jetix Europe, says, "URBAN VERMIN is a strong action-comedy that embodies the Jetix brand values but executes them in a completely new way. Kids will love the combination of wise-cracking animals, dynamic action and 'high-tech' gadgets."
Dominique Bazay, vp distribution, DECODE Ent., says, "This far-reaching agreement goes hand in hand with the multi-territory deal we made with Jetix Europe for Planthis year. We're delighted that Jetix has become such an important client."
Jetix Europe is a leading kids' entertainment company with localized television distribution and consumer products businesses in Europe and the Middle East.
DECODE Ent. is a subsidiary of DHX Media Ltd, a leading international producer and distributor of television programming and interactive content with an emphasis on children, family and youth markets. DHX Media Ltd. shares trade on both London's AIM exchange and the TSX in Toronto.
Rick DeMott
Animation World Network
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