Warner Bros. Pictures, The Weinstein Co. and Imagi Animation Studios agreed upon principal terms for the worldwide distribution of the feature films GATCHAMAN and ASTROBOY. The new pact builds on the success of TMNT, Imagi's first theatrical motion picture, also distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures and The Weinstein Co. TMNT opened in March 2007 at the top of the U.S. box office.
"Imagi is breaking new ground with big action pictures done entirely in CG animation," said Jeff Robinov, President, Production, Warner Bros. Pictures. "It's an exciting new genre, with the potential of attracting big mass market audiences."
"TMNT had the kind of beautifully choreographed action sequences you'd expect from Hong Kong animators," said Harvey Weinstein. "The next two films will confirm Imagi's reputation as the world's leading action hero animation studio."
GATCHAMAN, scheduled for release in early 2009, originated in Japan in the early 1970s as the television series SCIENCE NINJA TEAM GATCHAMAN. Aired in the U.S. as BATTLE OF THE PLANETS and G-FORCE, it soon became a widely popular syndicated TV series.
The GATCHAMAN feature is set in a future world grappling with environmental and technological issues. The story focuses on five reluctant heroes whose remarkable genetic code makes them Earth's only hope of defeating extraterrestrial invaders. Kevin Munroe (TMNT) is the director, with Lynne Southerland producing.
ASTROBOY was created by the "god of manga," Japan's Osamu Tezuka, in the early 1950s. The animated television series first aired in 1963 in Japan and found great acclaim and success around the world. In the U.S., it quickly became a top-syndicated children's show. The iconic character's fame grew in the 1980s and 2003 with two new ASTROBOY TV series.
Slated for release later in 2009, the new ASTROBOY feature tells the story of a powerful robot boy created by a brilliant scientist in the image of the son he has lost. AstroBoy journeys to find acceptance in the human world, and ultimately discovers true friendship as he uses his incredible powers to help others and save Metro City from destruction. Colin Brady (TOY STORY 2, EVERYONE'S HERO) directs, and Maryann Garger is the producer.
Rick DeMott
Animation World Network
Creator of Rick's Flicks Picks
