Veteran Hollywood Scribe to Write Screenplay for Film Scheduled for 2011 Release
Los Angeles, CA (July 21, 2009) — TMNT Productions, in association with Mirage Studios, has signed veteran screenwriter John Fusco to create the script for the upcoming live-action Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles theatrical film targeted for release in 2011. Fusco joins the creative team with producers Scott Mednick (“300,” “Superman Returns”) and Galen Walker (“TMNT”) to re-tell the origin story of the legendary foursome co-created by Kevin Eastman and Peter Laird.
Fusco brings a unique perspective to the classic property, with credits ranging from the original “Young Guns” and its sequel, to “Hidalgo” and last year’s “The Forbidden Kingdom” starring Jet Li and Jackie Chan. He also recently completed the script for a contemporary version of the classic “Seven Samurai” for The Weinstein Company.
In addition to his film industry credits, Fusco brings years of martial arts training and inspiration to the new screenplay. His interest in Korean martial arts began at age 12, and his passion continues today through ongoing study of Shaolin Kung Fu as well as the history and culture behind these ancient practices.
“It is always exciting when you can come aboard a project that bridges the worlds of what you do with what you love,” said Fusco. “I have always been a fan of the Turtles and the world of martial arts is my lifelong passion. I look forward to this great opportunity.”
“John brings to our team the perfect blend of talent, expertise and enthusiasm for the property and the genre,” said Mednick. ”We are committed to bringing to the screen a vital, vibrant and contemporary effort that is the next chapter in this venerable franchise.”
“Working with the original comics created by Peter Laird and Kevin Eastman will allow both the new and first generations of fans to experience the Turtles in a whole new light,” said Walker. “Tapping into the rich of history of these heroic and loved brethren should prove to be a phenomenal collaborative adventure for us all.”
“From the first stages of planning this movie, we were committed to finding a group of the most passionate, creative and experienced individuals who appreciated the history and myth of the TMNT, to craft a new vision of the Turtles for Mirage to share with current fans and to captivate a whole new generation,” said Gary Richardson CEO, Mirage Studios.
Announcement of Fusco’s role comes as the Turtles’ 25th Anniversary “Shell-ebration” culminates its cross-country tour at San Diego Comic-Con where Fusco, Mednick and Walker will join Turtles co-creator Kevin Eastman and Steve Barron (director of the original 1990’s film) and others on a panel to discuss the project and the history of the property on Friday, July 24.
Peter Laird, Gary Richardson, Frederick Fierst, Eric Crown and Napoleon Smith III will serve as executive producers of the film. The project is being funded through Lightbox Productions, LLC.
4Kids Entertainment, master licensing agency for the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles property, will handle all licensing activity on TMNT movie-related merchandise.
Additional information is available on the www.tmnt25.com and www.4kids.tv Websites.
###
About Mirage Studios
Mirage Studios, Inc. is part of The Mirage Group, a group of companies located in Northampton, Massachusetts that owns, manages, nurtures and protects the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles property.
About 4Kids Entertainment
Master licensing agent for Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, 4Kids Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: KDE), is a global organization devoted to the creation, development, production, broadcasting, distribution, licensing and manufacturing of children’s entertainment products, with U.S. headquarters in New York City, regional offices for its trading card business in San Diego, California and international offices in London and Hong Kong.
Additional information is available on the www.4kidsentertainment.com corporate Website and at the www.4kids.tv game station site.
Contact:
Barry Stagg
4Kids Entertainment
(310) 880-3193 (cell)
(646) 822-4275
bstagg@4kidsent.com
Maggie O’Neill
Peppercom
(212) 931-6181
moneill@peppercom.com
| Posted: Tuesday, July 21st, 2009 in Press Release
New Theatrical Film to tell Origin Story of the Legendary Characters
Los Angeles, April 23, 2009 — The Mirage Group has given the green light for development of a live-action major motion picture focusing on the origins of the iconic Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, targeted for release in 2011.
Announcement of the latest (fifth) big screen version of the crime-fighting “heroes in a half-shell” comes on the day the Turtles kick off their 25th anniversary national “Shell-ebration” in New York City with multiple events that include the honor of lighting the Empire State Building in ‘turtle green’ and a unique outdoor presentation of their beloved first “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” film at the Tribeca Film Festival “Drive-In”.
Mirage is partnering with producers Scott Mednick (“300”, “Superman Returns”, “10,000 BC”, and the upcoming “Where the Wild Things Are”) and Galen Walker (who produced the most recent computer-animated “TMNT” theatrical release) to create this live action film. Peter Laird, Gary Richardson, Frederick Fierst, Eric Crown and Napoleon Smith III will serve as executive producers of the film, which is based on the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles characters created by Laird and Kevin Eastman. Mednick and Walker will serve as producers. The project is being funded through Lightbox Productions, LLC.
“It was critical to us to find people who both understood the Turtles franchise and were accomplished film makers who appreciated both the action and humor components of the Turtles’ identity ,” said Gary Richardson CEO, The Mirage Group. “With Galen and Scott we know we’ve found great talent with those essential attributes.”
“The original dozen comics created by Peter Laird and Kevin Eastman are some of the best source material one could hope for,” said Mednick. “We’re excited to bring this story to a whole new generation of moviegoers as well as the legions of fans that have made the Turtles - Leonardo, Michelangelo, Donatello, and Raphael as well as Splinter, April O’Neil, Casey Jones and, of course, the great villain Shredder - a part of their world for 25 years.”
Mednick has begun reaching out to writers and directors and is already in discussion with several high-profile actors interested in portraying Turtles characters they loved as kids.
4Kids Entertainment, master licensing agency for the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles property, will be handling all the movie merchandise licensing.
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles made their public premiere in May 1984 in a comic book published and distributed by Mirage Studios. A hugely successful TV series quickly followed, along with a record-setting licensing program and three successful live-action theatrical films. In 2003, the Turtles were re-introduced to a new generation through a fresh TV series, a computer- animated theatrical movie and new merchandising program. The 25th year of TMNT will provide fans of all ages with the opportunity to experience this evergreen property in a ten-city mobile tour highlighted by the TMNT Party Bus, a rolling museum of TMNT memorabilia.
Additional information is available on the www.tmnt25.com and www.4kids.tv Websites.
###
About Mirage Studios
Mirage Studios, Inc. is part of The Mirage Group, a group of companies located in Northampton, Massachusetts that owns, manages, nurtures and protects the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles property.
About 4Kids Entertainment
Master licensing agent for Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, 4Kids Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: KDE), is a global organization devoted to the creation, development, production, broadcasting, distribution, licensing and manufacturing of children’s entertainment products, with U.S. headquarters in New York City, regional offices for its trading card business in San Diego, California and international offices in London and Hong Kong.
Additional information is available on the www.4kidsentertainment.com corporate Website and at the www.4kids.tv game station site.
| Posted: Thursday, April 23rd, 2009 in Press Release
Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Kick off 25th Anniversary Shell-ebration in Native Home: New York City
New York - April 1, 2009 - A quarter century after their storied rise to fame as the most popular terrestrial reptilian brothers of a generation, the official “Shell-ebration” marking the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) 25th Anniversary kicks off in their New York City home on Thursday, April 23 to start a year-long series of personal interactive experiences for fans across America.
Conceived by Mirage Studios, TMNT rights holder, 4Kids Entertainment, the brand’s master licensing agent, and supported by several licensees and partners, this special event has been designed to say “thanks!” to the millions of fans who’ve demonstrated their appreciation of the quirky quartet since their debut in May 1984. The inaugural event, a Gotham “Galabunga,” begins with a tribute from another American icon, as the Empire State Building’s world famous tower lights will “go green” on April 23 in honor of the four NYC heroes. A special lighting ceremony will take place at 10:00 AM atop the Empire State Building that day where the TMNT will flip a light switch; and once night falls, the city of New York will be cast in a green glow to shell-ebrate Leonardo, Donatello, Raphael and Michelangelo.
Later that evening, the prestigious Tribeca Film Festival will host an outdoor screening of the original TMNT movie, open to 10,000 filmgoers, all invited to participate in a world record-breaking event – for most people assembled as Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (signature masks to be provided to attendees). Also making its premiere at Tribeca is the TMNT Party Bus, a traveling treasure trove of TMNT memorabilia and interactivity for all to enjoy. The Bus will begin a cross-country 10-city tour following the night’s festivities (http://tmnt25.com/road_trip.html).
The original live action TMNT Movie, “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles” (1990), directed by Steve Barron, was selected as the Drive-in movie feature at the Tribeca Film Festival. This star-studded outdoor screening is scheduled for Thursday, April 23 (8:15 PM) at the World Financial Center Plaza (200 Vesey Street). Open to the public, pre-activities starting at 5:00 PM include a pizza party, face-painting, photo opportunities with the Turtles, dancing, and martial arts demonstrations with the TMNT and The American Taekwondo Association. Just as she’s done throughout the years, TMNT friend and confidant – April O’Neil – will join in the fun and be by the Turtles’ side throughout the Galabunga.
“When Kevin (Eastman) and I first came up with the concept for the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles twenty-five years ago, I never imagined how popular they would be”, said Peter Laird, co-creator of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. “The evolution of the Turtle brand has been awesome to watch, and it is mind-blowing to see how Leo, Mikey, Don and Raph have become a part of Americana. I am happy the Shell-ebration is paying tribute to all the fans, young and old, that continue to cherish the Turtles a quarter-century later.”
The Turtles will wrap the rest of their NYC visit by visiting Memorial Sloan-Kettering Children’s Hospital on Friday, April 24, as part of a partnership with the Kids Cancer Connection (KCC), a national organization dedicated to increasing public awareness of childhood cancer and providing valuable patient and family support services.
The TMNT will be busy hitting major attractions including ballparks, museums, science centers, retail locations and conventions in the Party Bus in the following cities:
Philadelphia (April 30-May 2)
Detroit (May 4-6)
Chicago (May 21-25)
St. Louis (June 4-6)
Dallas (June 11-13)
Denver (June 18-20)
Phoenix (June 25-27)
Las Vegas (July 9-11)
Los Angeles (July 16-18)
San Diego (July 22-25)
In addition to a shell-kicking museum with artifacts spanning the TMNT’s history, the TMNT Party Bus experience will include gaming stations, photo opportunities with the beloved turtillian brethren, along with martial arts demonstrations. Images from the NYC event as well as those captured throughout the TMNT Party Bus Tour will be available for download on www.tmnt25.com.
The TMNT made their public premiere in May 1984 in a comic book published and distributed by Mirage Studios. A hugely successful TV series quickly followed, along with three successful theatrical films. In 2003, the Turtles were re-introduced to a new generation through a fresh new TV series, a computer-animated theatrical movie and new merchandising program. The 25th Anniversary of TMNT will provide fans with new, stimulating opportunities to experience the Turtles.
Among the latest branded products coming out in this Shell-ebration year is a new TMNT Video Game from Ubisoft (3rd Quarter ’09), a new line of Turtles toys from Playmates Toys (4th Quarter ’09), and the 7th season Turtles DVD series from LionsGate and retro fashions at Hot Topic (both available now).
“With its rich history and great fan base, the Turtles continue to capture the hearts of millions the world over,” said Alfred R. Kahn, chairman and CEO, 4Kids Entertainment. “We’re delighted to be part of this memorable occasion, and salute Peter Laird, Kevin Eastman and Mirage Studios for this tremendous brand success and sensational reason to ‘Shell-ebrate.’”
To keep up to date of the latest Turtle adventures as they travel across the country, please visit: www.tmnt25.com.
About Mirage Studios
Mirage Studios, Inc. is part of the Mirage Group, a group of companies located in Northampton, Massachusetts that owns, manages, nurtures and protects the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles property.
About 4Kids Entertainment
With U.S. headquarters in New York City, regional offices for its trading card business in San Diego, California and international offices in London, 4Kids Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: KDE) is a global organization devoted to the creation, development, production, broadcasting, distribution, licensing, and manufacturing of children’s entertainment products.
Through its wholly owned subsidiaries, 4Kids produces animated television series and films, distributes 4Kids’ produced or licensed animated television series for the domestic and international television and home video markets, licenses merchandising rights worldwide to 4Kids’ owned or represented properties, operates Web sites to support 4Kids’ owned or represented properties, and produces and markets collectible trading card games. Additionally, the Company programs and sells the national advertising time in “TheCW4Kids” five-hour Saturday morning children’s television block on The CW Television Network.
Additional information is available on the www.4KidsEntertainment.com corporate Website and at the www.4kids.tv game station site.
Tags: Galabunga, Shell-ebration, TMNT, TMNT25, Tribeca Film Festival
| Posted: Thursday, April 2nd, 2009 in Press Release
TMNT’s 25 Years of Turtle Power Highlighted with Panels, Photo Opportunities and Prizes at East Coast’s Largest Pop Culture Convention
NEW YORK – February 2, 2009 – The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles return to their New York City home to “Shell-ebrate” as Mirage Studios, owners of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles brand, Playmates Toys, the Turtles’ longtime master toy licensee, and TMNT licensing agent 4Kids Entertainment, mark the 25th Anniversary of the lean, green, crime fighting machines with a major fan-based commemoration at the New York Comic Con show (booth # 1057) February 6 to February 8, 2009 at the Jacob K. Javits Center in New York.
The Turtles will rise from the sewers and hit the streets and major landmarks in Manhattan prior to New York Comic Con, on Thursday, February 5 (Noon - 5 p.m.) and Friday, February 6 (8:00 a.m. - 1:00 p.m.), to engage with fans, locals and NYC visitors about their TMNT memories and enthusiasm for the brand. Footage of the brothers taking Manhattan will be available at www.TMNT25.com. From there, the Turtles will play a starring role at Comic Con with exciting activities planned for fans including a TMNT photo station, a Ubisoft retro TMNT video game challenge where attendees can win a Nintendo Wii, a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles in Time arcade game tournament to win the title in the Guinness Book of Video Games Record for highest score in one credit, and onsite raffles to win an iPod touch from UCLICK, the Turtles’ mobile content licensee. In addition, there will be signings and booth appearances by TMNT artists and Peter Laird and Kevin Eastman, co-creators of the TMNT, over the course of the show.
Comic Con will be educational for TMNT fans, as well, with panels covering the artistic evolution of the TMNT over the past quarter century, led by Mirage artists on Friday February 6 (5:45 - 6:45 p.m.) in Panel Room 2 (1A07), and another focused on the animation of the TMNT hosted by the producers, directors, writers, and storyboard artists of the current 4Kids TMNT TV series, on Sunday, February 8 (12:15 -1:15 p.m.) in Panel Room 8 (1A23).
In addition, to bring their newer and younger fans some live TMNT magic, the Turtles will participate in New York Comic Con’s Kids Day on Sunday, February 8. Activities will include martial arts demonstrations by the TMNT and the black belt instructors of Tiger Schulmann’s Mixed Martial Arts in the BattleZone located in the Galleria, a panel hosted by the Turtles’ newscaster sidekick, April O’Neil, who’ll host a tribute to the TMNT brand and pay tribute to the 25th Anniversary with an interactive skit. The panel will be from 1:30 - 2:30 p.m., followed by the skit at 2:45 p.m. – both in the Galleria. Throughout the day, kids will have the chance to practice mixed martial arts moves, meet the TMNT, and win TMNT prizes from Playmates Toys, TMNT master toy licensee. A full schedule of TMNT events at the show can be found at TMNT25.com.
“New York is the home of the Turtles, and we are eager to get them back to their roots for our fans. A lot has changed since their debut in 1984, but the TMNT have never forgotten their comic origins or their fans, said Gary Richardson, CEO of Mirage Studios. “New York Comic Con is only the beginning of a very exciting year for the TMNT and we can’t wait to leave our mark on NYC.”
New York Comic Con is the first major event in the year-long Shell-ebration that began on January 1, when the TMNT launched a nostalgic, interactive Web site dedicated to their 25th Anniversary. The site includes an online sweepstakes, open until March 17, 2009, where one lucky prize winner will receive an original, limited edition TMNT bronze statue and a trip for two to New York City (including airfare, hotel and spending money).
About Mirage Studios
Mirage Studios, Inc. is part of the Mirage Group, a group of companies located in Northampton, Massachusetts that owns, manages, nurtures and protects the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles property.
About 4Kids Entertainment
With U.S. headquarters in New York City, regional offices for its trading card business in San Diego, California and international offices in London, 4Kids Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: KDE) is a global organization devoted to the creation, development, production, broadcasting, distribution, licensing, and manufacturing of children’s entertainment products.
Through its wholly owned subsidiaries, 4Kids produces animated television series and films, distributes 4Kids’ produced or licensed animated television series for the domestic and international television and home video markets, licenses merchandising rights worldwide to 4Kids’ owned or represented properties, operates Web sites to support 4Kids’ owned or represented properties, and produces and markets collectible trading card games. Additionally, the Company programs and sells the national advertising time in “TheCW4Kids” five-hour Saturday morning children’s television block on The CW Television Network.
Additional information is available on the www.4KidsEntertainment.com corporate Website and at the www.4kids.tv game station site.
About The Playmates Toys Company
For over 40 years, Playmates Toys, Inc., has been among the most well respected and innovative marketing and distribution companies in the global toy industry with a proven history in both the creation of innovative and imaginative products as well as the development and management of profitable, long-term brand franchises. Core licensed
character and entertainment brands include DISNEY(r) PRINCESSES and classic characters, DISNEY FAIRIES, Paramount Studios/CBS “Star Trek”, Warner Bros. “TERMINATOR: SALVATION” and 4Kids Entertainment/Mirage Licensing’s “TEENAGE MUTANT NINJA TURTLES” and 4Kids Entertainment/”YU-GI-OH.” From its offices in Hong Kong, China and the United States, Playmates designs, develops, markets and distributes its products in over 60 countries worldwide.
About Ubisoft
Ubisoft is a leading producer, publisher and distributor of interactive entertainment products worldwide and has grown considerably through a strong and diversified line-up of products and partnerships. Ubisoft has teams in 28 countries and distributes games in more than 55 countries around the globe. It is committed to delivering high-quality, cutting-edge video game titles to consumers. For the 2007–08 fiscal year Ubisoft generated sales of 928 million euros. To learn more, please visit www.ubisoftgroup.com.
| Posted: Monday, February 2nd, 2009 in Press Release
New Website and Fan Sweepstakes Launches New Years Day Highlighting the Past, Present and Future of the TMNT
NEW YORK – December 31, 2008 – It’s official, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are turning 25 in 2009, and are ready to Shell-ebrate in style. To kick off this big milestone, Mirage Studios, Inc., owners of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles brand, and 4Kids Entertainment Inc., announced today the New Year’s Day launch of the TMNT25 Website (www.tmnt25.com), an interactive Website dedicated to the 25th Anniversary “Shell-ebration” of the TMNT and the fans who have supported the Turtles throughout the years.
The Shell-ebration will serve as an acclamation of the impressive accomplishments the TMNT have achieved over the years, including four of the highest-grossing independent theatrical motion pictures of all time, top 10 all-time worldwide sales of toy action figures, and record-setting video game sales. However, it will also mark the beginning of the next chapter in TMNT history.
The new Website is a nostalgic, highly-interactive work of art that showcases the brand’s impressive past, and features Shell-ebration events taking place during the year so Turtle fans can keep their calendars updated. A few key sections of the site include: Turtle-Power (a 411 on the Turtles), Shell-ebration (special TMNT25 sweepstakes, wallpaper and more), Road Trip ( information on cities where the TMNT will visit in 2009), Get Turtle-ized (a personality quiz to see which TMNT character fans most align with), Green Team (blogs and podcasts from the road, as well as the TMNT’s cause-related activities),TMNT Gear (a showcase of TMNT products), Splinter’s Dojo (where fans can register for insider news and opportunities ) and April’s Newsroom (live updates on all Shell-ebration news).
“TMNT25.com is a place where fans can go to relive 25 years of our shell-kicking ninja action, as well as get updated on the events being held throughout 2009,” said Gary Richardson, CEO, Mirage Studios. “The site is dedicated to keeping in touch with the most important people – our fans. We hope that with this resource, our fans will be plugged-in throughout the year as we party together in true TMNT style.”
Additionally, to engage TMNT fans even more, an online sweepstakes will run from January 1, 2009 until March 17, 2009. The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Totally Tubular 25th Anniversary Sweepstakes (click here to enter to win: www.tmnt25.com)
is one of several sweepstakes that will take place during the year. One lucky prize winner of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Totally Tubular 25th Anniversary Sweepstakes will receive an original, limited edition TMNT bronze statue and a trip for two to New York City (including airfare, hotel and spending money).
The “Shell-ebration” will provide new and old fans alike with bodacious, new multi-experiential opportunities to interact with this iconic brand including Comic-Con shows on both coasts (New York Comic-Con Feb. 6 - 8 and San Diego Comic-Con July 23 - 26), “Galabungas”, large-scale consumer and media celebrations planned for New York City and San Diego, a mobile tour (Party Bus) commemorating 25 years of the TMNT that will hit key cities across the country, screenings of the original TMNT movie, and more.
The Party Bus will kick off the mobile tour at the end of April at the NYC “Galabunga.” The Party Bus will include a video gaming station, photo booth where attendees can take pictures with the TMNT, games and prizes, and an interactive museum that will showcase memorabilia from TMNT history.
About Mirage Studios
Mirage Studios, Inc. is part of the Mirage Group, a group of companies located in Northampton, Massachusetts that owns, manages, nurtures and protects the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles property.
About 4Kids Entertainment
With U.S. headquarters in New York City, regional offices for its trading card business in San Diego, California and international offices in London, 4Kids Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: KDE) is a global organization devoted to the creation, development, production, broadcasting, distribution, licensing, and manufacturing of children’s entertainment products.
Through its wholly owned subsidiaries, 4Kids produces animated television series and films, distributes 4Kids’ produced or licensed animated television series for the domestic and international television and home video markets, licenses merchandising rights worldwide to 4Kids’ owned or represented properties, operates Web sites to support 4Kids’ owned or represented properties, and produces and markets collectible trading card games. Additionally, the Company programs and sells the national advertising time in “TheCW4Kids” five-hour Saturday morning children’s television block on The CW Television Network.
Additional information is available on the www.4KidsEntertainment.com corporate Website and at the www.4kids.tv game station site.
| Posted: Wednesday, December 31st, 2008 in Press Release
CRT/tanaka Interactive and Kicking Cow Promotions Inc. Join Team to Execute TMNT25 Website and Cross-Country Mobile Tour
NEW YORK – October 29, 2008 - With approximately two months remaining until the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles kick off their 25th year in 2009, brand owner, Mirage Studios, Inc., and licensing agent 4Kids Entertainment have added to two new partners to its TMNT Shell-ebration family. CRT/tanaka Interactive and Kicking Cow Promotions Inc. have come on board to enhance the multi-dimensional plans for 2009, building and executing the TMNT mobile tour and the fan-based www.tmnt25.com Web site respectively.
To pay tribute both to the original fans, who are now young adults, and the 25-year history of TMNT, the CRT/tanaka Interactive team will work hand-in-hand with Mirage, 4Kids Entertainment and Peppercom Strategic Communications to build out the existing TMNT25 teaser site and develop a full blown micro-site. The site will include a number of interactive functions from a photo gallery to downloadable wallpapers and a personality test that determines which Turtle character users most identify with. The site will also spotlight 25th anniversary-oriented products and related links to help fans track down these awesome items.
“Our decision to bring CRT/tanaka’ on board for the Shell-ebration was motivated by their expertise and clear knowledge of and enthusiasm for the Turtles,” said Gary Richardson, CEO, Mirage Studios. “CRT/tanaka made a powerful impression with their comic-book inspired proposal and Turtles-inspired video. They brought a great vision, a strong team and a love for all things Turtles to the table.”
Additionally, Kicking Cow Promotions Inc., a full-service event and promotional marketing company will work with Peppercom to manage all elements of the Turtles’ Party Wagon nationwide mobile tour. Kicking Cow’s role will include re-creating the real-life Party Wagon, implementing innovative marketing strategies at each tour stop and managing ongoing fan communications.
“Taking the Turtles on the road in 2009 is a key element of our campaign and something our fans have been clamoring for,” added Richardson. “To execute the mobile tour in true Turtles fashion, we knew we needed a partner that would bring energy, creativity, and a spirit that embodied TMNT, and we found that partner in a Cow. From a buzz building, fan engagement perspective, Kicking Cow has a proven track record of successful tour execution. We look forward to their next big ‘road show,” this one starring the Turtles.”
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles made their world premiere in May 1984 in a comic book created by Peter Laird and Kevin Eastman published and distributed by their company, Mirage Studios. A hugely successful TV series quickly followed, along with three successful theatrical films. In 2003, the Turtles were re-introduced to a new generation through a fresh animated television series, a CGI-animated theatrical movie and new merchandising program. The 25th year of TMNT will provide fans with radical, new multi-experiential opportunities to experience and celebrate this iconic brand.
About Mirage Studios
Mirage Studios, Inc. is part of the Mirage Group, a group of companies located in Northampton, Massachusetts that owns, manages, nurtures and protects the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles property.
About 4Kids Entertainment
With U.S. headquarters in New York City, regional offices for its trading card business in San Diego, California and international offices in London, 4Kids Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: KDE) is a global organization devoted to the creation, development, production, broadcasting, distribution, licensing, and manufacturing of children’s entertainment products.
Through its wholly owned subsidiaries, 4Kids produces animated television series and films, distributes 4Kids’ produced or licensed animated television series for the domestic and international television and home video markets, licenses merchandising rights worldwide to 4Kids’ owned or represented properties, operates Web sites to support 4Kids’ owned or represented properties, and produces and markets collectible trading card games. Additionally, the Company programs and sells the national advertising time in the four-hour “4KidsTV” block which airs on nearly 200 affiliated FOX television stations Saturday mornings, as well as in the five-hour “TheCW4Kids” Saturday morning block on The CW Television Network.
Additional information is available on the www.4KidsEntertainment.com corporate web site and at the http://www.4kids.tv/ game station site.
| Posted: Wednesday, October 29th, 2008 in Press Release
SAN DIEGO, July 24, 2008 – Mirage Studios, Inc.and 4Kids Entertainment, Inc. announce the launch of an exclusive Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) Website, created for the fans who have made everyone’s favorite heroes in a half-shell a staple in pop culture for a quarter of a century. TMNT25.com, unveiled today at Comic-Con International, is the official destination for the Turtle’s 25th Anniversary Shell-ebration in 2009. Fans will have the opportunity to register on the site to receive up-to-the-minute 25th Anniversary information and locations for special events, as well as the chance to win rare collectibles and prizes and much more, via the downloadable Turtles widget.
In addition to the launch of the site at Comic-Con, show attendees will have the opportunity to participate in a pre-Shell-ebration Sweepstakes, which they can enter by collecting stamps on a specially crafted TMNT25 passport at several participating partner booths: (4Kids Entertainment/TC Digital Games LLC (Booth #3351), uclick LLC (Booth #1217), and National Entertainment Collectibles Association (NECA) (Booth #4345). Once all the stamps are collected and the passport tear-sheet is handed in, fans are entered to win a number of special prizes including a signed NECA TMNT collectible toy set, a Raphael costume from Disguise, Inc. and a mobile phone from uclick.
Additionally, by participating in the pre-Shell-ebration Sweepstakes, fans will be automatically entered in an online TMNT Cyber Sweepstakes, where they will have the chance to win rare copies of Gobbledygook, the limited Mirage Studios comic series which previewed the Turtles back in 1984, each signed by Turtles co-creators Peter Laird and Kevin Eastman.
“Launching the TMNT25 Website is an exciting first step for Mirage Studios in the multi-faceted Shell-ebration of our historic milestone,” said Gary Richardson, CEO of Mirage Studios. “This will be the go-to place for our fans to log on to reminisce in Turtles’ multi-media history, as well as receive the latest news on all the exciting anniversary initiatives in which they can participate.”
Peppercom, a strategic communications agency, and its experiential marketing division, Peppercommotions, will manage www.TMNT25.com, as well as the various Shell-ebration events.
“We’re confident that the TMNT25 Website will help generate a strong buzz for fans and serve as an important promotional resource for Turtles’ licensees, partners and retailers,” said Rosalind Nowicki, Executive Vice President, Marketing & Licensing, 4Kids Entertainment. “The Shell-ebration will bring back nostalgic memories, as well as create exciting new experiences for TMNT fans of all ages.”
Throughout 2008 and 2009, the TMNT25 team will host several interactive initiatives for fans during the action-packed anniversary, including nationwide tours, events and activities including “Galabungas” – TMNT-style parties in key U.S. cities – to celebrate the TMNT phenomenon throughout the years; and a mobile reunion tour that will travel across the country bringing families and friends together to participate in TMNT-themed events.
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles made their world premiere in May 1984, in a comic book created by Peter Laird and Kevin Eastman and published and distributed by Mirage Studios. A hugely successful TV series quickly followed, along with three successful theatrical films. In 2003, the Turtles were re-introduced to a new generation through a fresh animated television series, a CGI-animated theatrical movie and new merchandising program. The 25th year of TMNT will provide fans with radical, new, stimulating opportunities to experience the Turtles.
About Mirage Studios
Mirage Studios, Inc. is part of the Mirage Group, a group of companies located in Northampton, Massachusetts that owns, manages, nurtures and protects the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles property.
About 4Kids Entertainment
With U.S. headquarters in New York City, regional offices for its trading card business in San Diego, California and international offices in London, 4Kids Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: KDE) is a global organization devoted to the creation, development, production, broadcasting, distribution, licensing, and manufacturing of children’s entertainment products.
Through its wholly owned subsidiaries, 4Kids produces animated television series and films, distributes 4Kids’ produced or licensed animated television series for the domestic and international television and home video markets, licenses merchandising rights worldwide to 4Kids’ owned or represented properties, operates Web sites to support 4Kids’ owned or represented properties, and produces and markets collectible trading card games. Additionally, the Company programs and sells the national advertising time in a four-hour “4KidsTV” block which airs on nearly 200 affiliated FOX television stations Saturday mornings. Beginning in September 2008, the Company will also program and sell the national advertising time in the five-hour Saturday morning block on The CW television network.
Additional information is available on the www.4KidsEntertainment.com corporate web site and at the www.4kids.tv game station site.
The information contained in this press release, other than historical information, consists of forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Exchange Act. These statements may involve risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in such statements. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking statements are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations will prove to have been correct. Important factors beyond the Company’s control, including general economic conditions, consumer spending levels, competition from toy companies, motion picture studios and other licensing companies, the uncertainty of public response to the Company’s properties and other factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the Company’s expectations.
| Posted: Thursday, July 24th, 2008 in Press Release
NEW YORK – June 11, 2008 – Mirage Studios and 4Kids Entertainment continue to build excitement around the 25th Anniversary of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) and the subsequent 2009 Shell-ebration plans, with a significant element announced today at Licensing Expo — the building of a 2008 TMNT25 teaser site for fans.
The TMNT25 Website (www.tmnt25.com) will go live at the kickoff of ComicCon San Diego in late July. In an effort to build buzz and engage loyal fans as the TMNT approaches its 2009 anniversary, Mirage Studios and 4Kids Entertainment have contracted design company, Zype, to develop a teaser Website. The site will give fans the opportunity to register for Shell-ebration news and updates and enter into a sweepstakes for special 25th Anniversary prizes. The teaser site will transition into a full interactive Website as the TMNT 25th Anniversary approaches.
“Getting the TMNT25 Website up is an essential first step as we build our plans for the TMNT 25th Anniversary Shell-ebration,” said Gary Richardson, CEO of Mirage Studios. “We want our fans to be the first to know about the exciting anniversary initiatives, and get them engaged now to maximize the potential of our 2009 plans.”
Strategic communications agency, Peppercom, and its experiential marketing division, Peppercommotions, will manage the building of the site and its launch at ComicCon with onsite activities and giveaways for TMNT fans.
”We hope to establish some great traction and buzz with the implementation of the new Website,” said Rosalind Nowicki, Executive Vice President, Licensing & Merchandising, 4Kids Entertainment. “We are looking to build off this initiative and find additional ways to engage the TMNT audience and enhance their excitement leading up to the TMNT 25th Anniversary Shell-ebration.”
Throughout 2008 and 2009, the TMNT25 team will look to expand the brand’s reach through additional and ongoing licensing partnerships and marketing activities. The Shell-ebration will include an innovative communications program supporting nationwide tours, events and activities emblematic of the property.
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles made their public premiere in May 1984 in a comic book published and distributed by Mirage Studios. A hugely successful TV series quickly followed, along with a record setting licensing program and three successful theatrical films. In 2003, the Turtles were re-introduced to a new generation through a fresh TV series, a computer- animated theatrical movie and new merchandising program. The 25th year of TMNT will provide fans of all ages with exciting new opportunities to experience this evergreen property.
About Mirage Studios
Mirage Studios, Inc. is part of the Mirage Group, a group of companies located in Northampton, Massachusetts that owns, manages, nurtures and protects the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles property.
About 4Kids Entertainment
With U.S. headquarters in New York City, regional offices for its trading card business in San Diego, California and international offices in London, 4Kids Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: KDE) is a global organization devoted to the creation, development, production, broadcasting, distribution, licensing, and manufacturing of children’s entertainment products.
Through its wholly owned subsidiaries, 4Kids produces animated television series and films, distributes 4Kids’ produced or licensed animated television series for the domestic and international television and home video markets, licenses merchandising rights worldwide to 4Kids’ owned or represented properties, operates Web sites to support 4Kids’ owned or represented properties, and produces and markets collectible trading card games. Additionally, the Company programs and sells the national advertising time in a four-hour “4KidsTV” block which airs on nearly 200 affiliated FOX television stations Saturday mornings. Beginning in September 2008, the Company will also program and sell the national advertising time in the five-hour Saturday morning block on The CW television network.
Additional information is available on the www.4KidsEntertainment.com corporate web site and at the www.4kids.tv game station site.
| Posted: Wednesday, June 11th, 2008 in Press Release
NEW YORK – April 15, 2008 – Award-winning strategic communications agency Peppercom and its experiential marketing division Peppercommotions, have joined forces with Mirage Studios and 4Kids Entertainment to develop and execute the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles’ 25th Anniversary Shell-ebration. The team will create a year-long nationwide campaign - engaging new and established partners, audiences and media - for the official 2009 milestone of the iconic Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT) brand.
Mirage Studios, the independent American comic book company founded in 1983 by Turtles’ creators Peter Laird and Kevin Eastmann, and 4Kids Entertainment, TMNT master licensing agent and co-producer of the current animated TMNT series which airs on its 4Kids TV™ branded program block on FOX, will work with Peppercom to engage the millions of original and first-time Turtles fans in numerous events highlighting the history, spirit and continuing popularity of the brand. The Shell-ebration will encompass a broad range of initiatives, experiential events, digital and viral interactivity and cause-related activities close to the Turtles’ hearts.
“This is a remarkable moment in Mirage Studios’ evolution, as well as in the Turtles’ place in pop culture history. In this moment, we can reflect on how the world has embraced our four distinctive, heroic, fun characters for 25 years, and recognize that they are still evolving and relevant,” said Gary Richardson, CEO of Mirage Studios. “Peppercom’s deep understanding of consumer brands and its imaginative approach made them the clear choice to support us in celebrating this extraordinary event.”
”The Turtles are woven into the fabric of global culture, the result of the world’s love affair with these irascible, irreverent and captivating characters,” said Alfred P. Kahn, chairman and CEO, 4Kids Entertainment. “We’re proud to represent them and look forward to sharing great successes together in the next 25 years.”
Throughout 2008 and 2009, the TMNT25 team will look to expand the brand’s reach through additional promotional and licensing partnerships and marketing activities. The Shell-ebration will also include an innovative communications program supporting nationwide tours, events and activities emblematic of the property. This is Mirage and 4Kids’ way of thanking lifelong fans for their appreciation of the Turtles.
“To say that we are excited to be a part of the anniversary of one of the world’s favorite entertainment properties is an understatement,” said Maggie O’Neill, senior director of Peppercommotions. “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is an iconic brand that has been a mainstream success for 25 years. Now, we have the opportunity to celebrate by bringing together the young-adult alumni audience with today’s young fans, exemplifying the evolution and staying power of this foursome.”
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles made their public premiere in May 1984 in a comic book published and distributed by Mirage Studios. A hugely successful TV series quickly followed, along with a record setting licensing program and three successful theatrical films. In 2003, the Turtles were re-introduced to a new generation through a fresh TV series, a computer- animated theatrical movie and new merchandising program. The 25th year of TMNT will provide fans of all ages with exciting new opportunities to experience this evergreen property.
About Mirage Studios
Mirage Studios, Inc. is part of the Mirage Group, a group of companies located in Northampton, Massachusetts that owns, manages, nurtures and protects the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles property.
About 4Kids Entertainment
With U.S. headquarters in New York City, regional offices for its trading card business in San Diego, California and international offices in London, 4Kids Entertainment, Inc. (NYSE: KDE) is a global organization devoted to the creation, development, production, broadcasting, distribution, licensing, and manufacturing of children’s entertainment products.
Through its wholly owned subsidiaries, 4Kids produces animated television series and films, distributes 4Kids’ produced or licensed animated television series for the domestic and international television and home video markets, licenses merchandising rights worldwide to 4Kids’ owned or represented properties, operates Web sites to support 4Kids’ owned or represented properties, and produces and markets collectible trading card games. Additionally, the Company programs and sells the national advertising time in a four-hour “4KidsTV” block which airs on nearly 200 affiliated FOX television stations Saturday mornings. Beginning in September 2008, the Company will also program and sell the national advertising time in the five-hour Saturday morning block on The CW television network.
Additional information is available on the www.4KidsEntertainment.com corporate web site and at the www.4kids.tv game station site.
About Peppercom
Peppercom, Inc. is a strategic communications firm headquartered in New York, with offices in San Francisco, Chicago and London. Its business approach to strategic communications drives new opportunities for clients. In addition to providing innovative public relations, Peppercom offers PepperDigital(SM), which helps clients integrate emerging media tools with traditional communications programs. Peppercom is also known for its crisis management program Crisis Rx(SM) and Pain-Based Selling(SM) program, and Peppercommotions, which helps clients create, manage and execute live events and sponsorships. In 2005, the agency created GreenPepper to help traditional and renewable energy companies engage with the environmental community and develop communication strategies. Peppercom is the recipient of the “Small Agency of the Year – 2006” award from PR Week and was named “Innovative Agency of the Year – 2006” from The Holmes Report. Information about the agency and its unique service offerings may be found at www.peppercom.com.
| Posted: Tuesday, April 15th, 2008 in Press Release
