Nickelodeon has partnered with media content company, Chorion, to present OLIVIA, a new children's animated television series based on the best-selling books by acclaimed author/illustrator Ian Falconer.
The new CGI series (52x11 and one 44 minute special) will be animated by Academy Award-nominated Irish animation studio Brown Bag Films. Nick Jr. will present 26 half-hour episodes in the U.S. and sales for the international territories will be made at MIP this month.
"Olivia is one of our most exciting properties and we are thrilled that our enthusiasm for the brand is shared wholeheartedly by our partners at Nickelodeon," said Nicholas James, ceo of Chorion. "We are committed to delivering the very best quality entertainment to audiences globally, and we could not have better partners in that endeavor."
"Olivia is that rarest of creatures: a children's publishing phenomenon with an established international appeal," said Brown Johnson, evp/exec creative director, Nickelodeon Preschool. "We are delighted to be partnering with Chorion on this new series and look forward to introducing the television adventures of the world's most precocious, yet lovable piglet to new fans in the U.S."
The first OLIVIA picture book by U.S. author and acclaimed THE NEW YORKER illustrator Falconer was published in 2000 to rave reviews. Since that time, the series has sold an impressive 2.5 million copies worldwide in 21 languages.
Olivia is a sophisticated yet charming piglet with a flair for the dramatic. Her character is one of boundless energy, self-confidence and exuberance and the new series will see these traits reflected faithfully in Falconer's trademark humor and unmistakable, minimalist, illustrative style.
The production marks a key growth pillar for Chorion's development and production of literary-based entertainment properties with global appeal. As part of its strategy, the company will also develop a significant online presence for the brand alongside a refreshed and revamped licensing and merchandising program.
Chorion acquired the non-publishing rights to OLIVIA in 2005. It is handling worldwide television sales, and will be showcasing OLIVIA at MIPTV.
Chorion is a media content company that owns and manages an extensive portfolio of classic and contemporary premium copyrights with worldwide appeal. The company comprises three divisions: Children's, Literary Estates and TV and Film. The Children's division directs global entertainment and merchandising for Chorion-owned brands including NODDY and MR. MEN. For more information, visit www.chorion.co.uk.
Rick DeMott
Animation World Network
Creator of Rick's Flicks Picks
