London, UK -- Entertainment One (eOne) revealed that it has secured the UK licensing rights to the new 3D animated feature Justin and the Knights of Valour which the firm’s theatrical division will distribute in UK cinemas from August 2013. The deal underscores eOne’s strategy to maximise the expertise of its licensing arm to secure L&M rights to its theatrical and home entertainment acquisitions.
Hannah Mungo, Head of UK Licensing at Entertainment One comments, ‘We’re extremely excited to be presenting licensing opportunities for Justin and the Knights of Valour which will form part of our slate at BLE this year. The property already benefits from a comprehensive style guide to inspire potential licensees and we’re looking forward to developing some solid licensing and promotional partnerships that will build a strong foundation for the licensing programme.’
Set in a magical world of childhood dreams, Justin and the Knights of Valour is a heart-warming tale about friendship, honour and courage, which sees a young boy become a man as he embarks on a quest to become a knight. The $30 million CGI production hails from the acclaimed Oscar nominated studio KANDOR Graphics and features an all star line-up of voice talent including Freddie Highmore, Antonio Banderas, Charles Dance, Rupert Everett, Barry Humphries David Walliams, Julie Walters, and Saoirse Ronan.
Justin and the Knights of Valour has already secured international pre-sales in over 120 countries worldwide, including Spain, Russia, China, Latin America, Middle East, Israel and South Korea. eOne will be supporting the UK theatrical launch with a heavyweight marketing campaign across all media platforms that will drive awareness of the film when it hits cinema screens next summer. To coincide with the film release, eOne is now looking for licensing partners to fulfil major categories including toys, publishing, apparel and promotions. Merchandise will be targeted at boys and girls between 5 and 11 years old.
Hannah Mungo continues, ‘Film licensing will be a key priority for the business going forward as we look to tie-in merchandise rights to the eOne theatrical and home entertainment acquisitions that have licensing potential.’
Source: Entertainment One