National Geographic Television & Films (NGT&F) Kids Programming and Production unit has commenced production on the made-for-DVD animated special, TOOT & PUDDLE: I'LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS, also available to domestic and international broadcasters as a one-hour format. Based on Holly Hobbies TOOT & PUDDLE franchise and animated by Grand Slamm Childrens Films, TOOT & PUDDLE: I'LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS is scheduled to launch during the 2006 holiday season.
Geared toward families and kids 3-8, TOOT & PUDDLE: I'LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS is the tale of the two piglet pals, Toot and Puddle, who must overcome severe winter weather, canceled flights and other unexpected delays to celebrate the holidays together. Globe-trotting Toot, who has been in Scotland for his Great Aunt Pegs 100th birthday celebration, promises Puddle that he'll make it back to Woodcock Pocket for Christmas. Meanwhile, Puddle the backyard explorer and his little cousin Opal, experience their own Christmas adventure.
We are excited to bring these adventurous animated characters to the screen, with the help of a talented artist like Holly Hobbie and such a well-respected animation studio as Grand Slamm, said Tara Sorenson, vp, development for National Geographic Kids' Programming and Production.
TOOT & PUDDLE: I'LL BE HOME FOR CHRISTMAS is a classic story of adventure for kids and we look forward to presenting an enticing sneak-peek to prospective buyers MIPTV as we make plans to expand the brand into additional formats, said Donna Friedman Meir, president, Kids Programming and Production for NGT&F.
Kids Programming and Production is an independent production entity of NGT&F. Established in 2003, NGT&Fs Kids group brings the renowned National Geographic brand to childrens entertainment through the development and production of animated and live-action, entertainment-driven programming that excites kids to explore their world. NGT&Fs Kids group will work with all major broadcast outlets in the U.S. and abroad. For more information, visit www.nationalgeographic.com.
Grand Slamm Children's Films (GSCF) is a small independent production company specializing in 2D animated films, mainly for children. For more information, visit www.gscfilms.com.
Rick DeMott
Animation World Network
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