In January of 2021, Megan Ellison got a call from Erik Lomis, the former head of distribution at her company, Annapurna Pictures, asking if she’d like to take a look at a movie whose filmmakers needed a lifeline. Disney was days away from announcing that it planned to shutter Blue Sky Studios, the 500-person, Greenwich, Connecticut-based animation studio it had inherited in the 2019 Fox acquisition, and with that closure, the Burbank media giant would be dropping Blue Sky’s most promising movie, Nimona.
“I wasn’t really engaging in new film projects at the time, but being curious, I said yes,” Ellison said, in an email.
Ellison watched the hand-drawn storyboard reels, which directors Nick Bruno and Troy Quane had adapted from Nd Stevenson’s 2015 graphic novel, and instantly connected with the title character, a shape-shifter voiced by Chloë Grace Moretz who appears most often as a young woman, but...
“I wasn’t really engaging in new film projects at the time, but being curious, I said yes,” Ellison said, in an email.
Ellison watched the hand-drawn storyboard reels, which directors Nick Bruno and Troy Quane had adapted from Nd Stevenson’s 2015 graphic novel, and instantly connected with the title character, a shape-shifter voiced by Chloë Grace Moretz who appears most often as a young woman, but...
- 2/22/2024
- by Rebecca Keegan
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Thanksgiving weekend featured an animation face-off between a titan of the industry, the 100-year-old Walt Disney Animation Studios, and a relative upstart, Netflix, which only started releasing its own animated features in 2019.
Disney’s holiday movie, “Wish,” was a musical extravaganza featuring the watercolor backgrounds of the studio’s past combined with cutting-edge CGI, while Netflix’s “Leo” was a more budget-conscious musical set in modern-day Florida.
It was a showdown of theatrical versus streaming, legacy studio versus blustery upstart, fairy tale versus contemporary storytelling. And the results were startling.
While “Wish” came in third at the box office with a disappointing $31.6 million, the Adam Sandler-starring “Leo” debuted to 34.6 million views (which is hours viewed divided by total runtime), according to Netflix, which in box office terms equaled a haul of around $500 million for its opening weekend, one insider with knowledge of the situation told TheWrap. “Leo” has been...
Disney’s holiday movie, “Wish,” was a musical extravaganza featuring the watercolor backgrounds of the studio’s past combined with cutting-edge CGI, while Netflix’s “Leo” was a more budget-conscious musical set in modern-day Florida.
It was a showdown of theatrical versus streaming, legacy studio versus blustery upstart, fairy tale versus contemporary storytelling. And the results were startling.
While “Wish” came in third at the box office with a disappointing $31.6 million, the Adam Sandler-starring “Leo” debuted to 34.6 million views (which is hours viewed divided by total runtime), according to Netflix, which in box office terms equaled a haul of around $500 million for its opening weekend, one insider with knowledge of the situation told TheWrap. “Leo” has been...
- 12/11/2023
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
Netflix is laying off 30 staffers from its film animation team in the wake of a restructuring to its leadership for that department.
The team, led by Karen Toliver (VP Animation Film Content) and Traci Balthazor (VP Animation Film Production), aims for better collaboration closer to traditional animation film studios, resulting in 30 different roles that are no longer needed, an individual with knowledge of the decision said.
The move is not expected to lead to a downturn in the overall amount of content that Netflix puts out from its film animation unit.
Netflix had no comment.
Also Read:
Warner Bros. Discovery Begins to Lay Off Hundreds of Workers
Back in July, Toliver was promoted to lead the film animation team and report directly to global film head Scott Stuber. It led to Melissa Cobb and Gregg Taylor shifting to becoming creative producing partners and removing layers from the leadership structure, while...
The team, led by Karen Toliver (VP Animation Film Content) and Traci Balthazor (VP Animation Film Production), aims for better collaboration closer to traditional animation film studios, resulting in 30 different roles that are no longer needed, an individual with knowledge of the decision said.
The move is not expected to lead to a downturn in the overall amount of content that Netflix puts out from its film animation unit.
Netflix had no comment.
Also Read:
Warner Bros. Discovery Begins to Lay Off Hundreds of Workers
Back in July, Toliver was promoted to lead the film animation team and report directly to global film head Scott Stuber. It led to Melissa Cobb and Gregg Taylor shifting to becoming creative producing partners and removing layers from the leadership structure, while...
- 9/14/2022
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Exclusive: We are hearing from sources that Cattywumpus, the Gore Verbinski-directed animated movie about outer space felines, will be getting shopped around town to other studios.
Verbinski, whose films have grossed 3.76 billion and who won an Oscar in 2012 for the Paramount animated movie Rango, had been working on his latest film at Netflix.
Such is the complex nature of animated film production, where quite often halfway through, stories and plans can pivot. There’s a history of that from movies such as Pixar’s Soul and Dinosaur and DreamWorks Animation’s How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World.
Cattywumpus repped Verbinski’s second animated movie after the Johnny Depp-voiced Western Rango, which grossed 246 million at the worldwide box office.
Netflix, we understand, gave the creative team the option to go shop the movie elsewhere.
Netflix has seen promotions and changeovers in its animation executive suite over the summer.
Verbinski, whose films have grossed 3.76 billion and who won an Oscar in 2012 for the Paramount animated movie Rango, had been working on his latest film at Netflix.
Such is the complex nature of animated film production, where quite often halfway through, stories and plans can pivot. There’s a history of that from movies such as Pixar’s Soul and Dinosaur and DreamWorks Animation’s How to Train Your Dragon: The Hidden World.
Cattywumpus repped Verbinski’s second animated movie after the Johnny Depp-voiced Western Rango, which grossed 246 million at the worldwide box office.
Netflix, we understand, gave the creative team the option to go shop the movie elsewhere.
Netflix has seen promotions and changeovers in its animation executive suite over the summer.
- 9/1/2022
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
When it comes to stop-motion animated features, Henry Selick is in a league all his own. The acclaimed director of beloved films like "The Nightmare Before Christmas," "James and the Giant Peach," and "Monkeybone," is back with his first feature since "Coraline" -- the Netflix film, "Wendell and Wild." Based on Selick and Clay McLeod Chapman's unpublished book of the same name and from a script co-written by Selick and Jordan Peele, "Wendell and Wild" sees two titular demon brothers trying to convince a 13-year-old girl named Kat to summon them back into the land of the living. The film stars Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele as the dastardly duo, and Lyric Ross as Kat.
Stop-motion animation isn't easy, and as the industry becomes increasingly centered on CG, the art style is one we see less and less. /Film's own Jacob Hall paid a set visit with a group of journalists,...
Stop-motion animation isn't easy, and as the industry becomes increasingly centered on CG, the art style is one we see less and less. /Film's own Jacob Hall paid a set visit with a group of journalists,...
- 8/30/2022
- by BJ Colangelo
- Slash Film
Everybody’s gonna be kung fu fighting — a fourth film in the “Kung Fu Panda” series will release in 2024, Universal Pictures announced Friday.
The film, which is slated for a March 8, 2024 release, will be the first film in the “Kung Fu Panda” franchise since 2016, when the DreamWorks Animation series concluded a planned trilogy. The films focus on Po (Jack Black), an excitable panda bear living in a fantasy version of ancient China. In the first film in the franchise, released in theaters in 2008, Po is chosen to become the “Dragon Warrior,” a prophesied kung fu master. Over the course of the film and its two sequels Po trains under the wise Master Shifu (Dustin Hoffman) and overcomes his doubts to grow into a capable hero, defeating several dangerous foes and eventually reuniting with his long-lost birth parents.
The first “Kung Fu Panda” film was DreamWorks’ highest-grossing original animated film, earning...
The film, which is slated for a March 8, 2024 release, will be the first film in the “Kung Fu Panda” franchise since 2016, when the DreamWorks Animation series concluded a planned trilogy. The films focus on Po (Jack Black), an excitable panda bear living in a fantasy version of ancient China. In the first film in the franchise, released in theaters in 2008, Po is chosen to become the “Dragon Warrior,” a prophesied kung fu master. Over the course of the film and its two sequels Po trains under the wise Master Shifu (Dustin Hoffman) and overcomes his doubts to grow into a capable hero, defeating several dangerous foes and eventually reuniting with his long-lost birth parents.
The first “Kung Fu Panda” film was DreamWorks’ highest-grossing original animated film, earning...
- 8/12/2022
- by Wilson Chapman
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Mike Moon, Director of Adult Animation, is leaving Netflix at the end of this month to pursue other opportunities.
Moon, an animation veteran who had worked across animated film and series at Sony Pictures Animation, Disney Television Animation, and Cartoon Network, joined Netflix over 4 1/2 years ago to build and lead Netflix’s Adult Animation team.
His departure is not related to the recent changes in Netflix’s family animation unit, which included Melissa Cobb stepping down from the leadership position as VP Animation Film, Karen Toliver’s promotion to replace her and the streamer’s slate being paired down with the release of several high-profile projects.
A search is underway for Moon’s replacement as Netflix remains committed to original adult animated content and Vine Studios, its animated series production facility that Moon also spearheaded.
Netflix Acquires Animation Studio Animal Logic
Moon, who started his career as an artist,...
Moon, an animation veteran who had worked across animated film and series at Sony Pictures Animation, Disney Television Animation, and Cartoon Network, joined Netflix over 4 1/2 years ago to build and lead Netflix’s Adult Animation team.
His departure is not related to the recent changes in Netflix’s family animation unit, which included Melissa Cobb stepping down from the leadership position as VP Animation Film, Karen Toliver’s promotion to replace her and the streamer’s slate being paired down with the release of several high-profile projects.
A search is underway for Moon’s replacement as Netflix remains committed to original adult animated content and Vine Studios, its animated series production facility that Moon also spearheaded.
Netflix Acquires Animation Studio Animal Logic
Moon, who started his career as an artist,...
- 7/25/2022
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: After announcing its acquisition of the Australian animation studio Animal Logic during yesterday’s earnings call, Deadline has learned that Netflix is making internal moves that will streamline its coterie of executives who’ll steer the Film Animation division.
Karen Toliver, VP Animation Film, is being promoted to lead the Animation Film team. With that change, Melissa Cobb will move from her role as VP Animation Film but will stay on with Netflix as a producer. Cobb joined the company four years ago and to led the animation team and since then has built the studio from the ground up, attracting filmmakers and delivering a diverse slate of ani films so far.
Also transitioning is Gregg Taylor, the VP Animation Film who’ll also become a producer. He too has been there four years, helping to build the creative team and oversee and shepherd the film slates, most recently The Sea Beast.
Karen Toliver, VP Animation Film, is being promoted to lead the Animation Film team. With that change, Melissa Cobb will move from her role as VP Animation Film but will stay on with Netflix as a producer. Cobb joined the company four years ago and to led the animation team and since then has built the studio from the ground up, attracting filmmakers and delivering a diverse slate of ani films so far.
Also transitioning is Gregg Taylor, the VP Animation Film who’ll also become a producer. He too has been there four years, helping to build the creative team and oversee and shepherd the film slates, most recently The Sea Beast.
- 7/20/2022
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
The nominees list for the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences Board of Governors has been revealed before its June 6-10 balloting.
The candidates are hoping to fill the open seats on the 54-member board. Up to four candidates are set for the open seat at each each branch, which carries three governors with staggered terms per branch.
Board members who have termed out include Academy president David Rubin (from the casting directors branch), Jan Pascale (production designers), Mark Johnson (producers) and Nancy Utley (PR).
Candidates vying for a seat include actress Marlee Matlin, composer Hans Zimmer, and executive Toby Emmerich.
The slate faces some crucial tests once installed, including selecting a new Academy president and new CEO to replace outgoing Dawn Hudson. The Academy also must overcome perceptions created in a rocky year, with its Will Smith Oscars slap incident and the uproar over what categories would make it into the Oscars broadcast.
The candidates are hoping to fill the open seats on the 54-member board. Up to four candidates are set for the open seat at each each branch, which carries three governors with staggered terms per branch.
Board members who have termed out include Academy president David Rubin (from the casting directors branch), Jan Pascale (production designers), Mark Johnson (producers) and Nancy Utley (PR).
Candidates vying for a seat include actress Marlee Matlin, composer Hans Zimmer, and executive Toby Emmerich.
The slate faces some crucial tests once installed, including selecting a new Academy president and new CEO to replace outgoing Dawn Hudson. The Academy also must overcome perceptions created in a rocky year, with its Will Smith Oscars slap incident and the uproar over what categories would make it into the Oscars broadcast.
- 6/2/2022
- by Bruce Haring
- Deadline Film + TV
Karen Toliver has joined Netflix as vice president of animated film, Variety has learned exclusively.
The former Sony Pictures Animation senior vice president will join the streamer in March reporting to Melissa Cobb, VP of the kids and family division. She’ll be responsible for two to three animated features annually and will work alongside fellow animation VP Gregg Taylor.
“It has been an absolute dream working with Kristine Belson and her game-changing team at Sony Pictures Animation. The experience has been instrumental in shaping how I approach producing. Storytelling in animation continues to evolve and expand, and I am excited to join the team at Netflix to continue to break new ground,” Toliver told Variety.
Toliver is credited with the development of the Oscar-nominated “The Mitchells vs. the Machines,” as well as a producer on the Oscar-winning short “Hair Love.” Prior to Spa, she had a long run at...
The former Sony Pictures Animation senior vice president will join the streamer in March reporting to Melissa Cobb, VP of the kids and family division. She’ll be responsible for two to three animated features annually and will work alongside fellow animation VP Gregg Taylor.
“It has been an absolute dream working with Kristine Belson and her game-changing team at Sony Pictures Animation. The experience has been instrumental in shaping how I approach producing. Storytelling in animation continues to evolve and expand, and I am excited to join the team at Netflix to continue to break new ground,” Toliver told Variety.
Toliver is credited with the development of the Oscar-nominated “The Mitchells vs. the Machines,” as well as a producer on the Oscar-winning short “Hair Love.” Prior to Spa, she had a long run at...
- 2/10/2022
- by Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Netflix has promoted executives Kira Goldberg and Ori Marmur to lead a new film team that will be focused on developing more big-budget, commercial films.
Goldberg and Marmur had previously reported to Tendo Nagenda, but now their team will continue to work closely and in parallel with his, with Nagenda continuing to lead a separate team that’s still focused on four-quadrant movies.
Goldberg and Marmur’s titles will remain VP of Studio Film, but their roles and responsibilities have increased, all with the eye of more growth in Netflix’s film slate. As a result, they’ll be tasked with hiring more people and more film executives.
Moving forward, Nagenda’s group is overseeing production and release of upcoming Netflix films such as “The Harder They Fall,” “The Gray Man” and “Knives Out 2,” while Goldberg and Marmur are overseeing “Don’t Look Up,” “Tick, Tick…Boom!,” “Red Notice,” “The Adam Project” and more.
Goldberg and Marmur had previously reported to Tendo Nagenda, but now their team will continue to work closely and in parallel with his, with Nagenda continuing to lead a separate team that’s still focused on four-quadrant movies.
Goldberg and Marmur’s titles will remain VP of Studio Film, but their roles and responsibilities have increased, all with the eye of more growth in Netflix’s film slate. As a result, they’ll be tasked with hiring more people and more film executives.
Moving forward, Nagenda’s group is overseeing production and release of upcoming Netflix films such as “The Harder They Fall,” “The Gray Man” and “Knives Out 2,” while Goldberg and Marmur are overseeing “Don’t Look Up,” “Tick, Tick…Boom!,” “Red Notice,” “The Adam Project” and more.
- 7/16/2021
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Netflix is implementing some important leadership changes as it works to create more broadly entertaining film projects.
As part of that shift, executives Kira Goldberg and Ori Marmur have both been promoted and will head up a team tasked with developing and producing big-budget and four-quadrant films. Their team will be autonomous from the one led by Tendo Nagenda, who is also mandated with making commercial fare. Both Goldberg and Marmur previously reported to Nagenda. Under the new order, their teams are expected to continue to work closely together.
The staffing change is slightly confusing, because it comes with much broader responsibilities, but no new titles. Goldberg and Marmur were both promoted to vice presidents of original studio film last year. It’s being done because Netflix is ramping up its output dramatically. The studio will release more than 70 films this year, the equivalent of a movie a week. Traditional...
As part of that shift, executives Kira Goldberg and Ori Marmur have both been promoted and will head up a team tasked with developing and producing big-budget and four-quadrant films. Their team will be autonomous from the one led by Tendo Nagenda, who is also mandated with making commercial fare. Both Goldberg and Marmur previously reported to Nagenda. Under the new order, their teams are expected to continue to work closely together.
The staffing change is slightly confusing, because it comes with much broader responsibilities, but no new titles. Goldberg and Marmur were both promoted to vice presidents of original studio film last year. It’s being done because Netflix is ramping up its output dramatically. The studio will release more than 70 films this year, the equivalent of a movie a week. Traditional...
- 7/16/2021
- by Brent Lang and Matt Donnelly
- Variety Film + TV
Emmy-winning creator and director of “The Book of Life” and “El Tigre” Jorge Gutierrez and his longtime partner, in life and in work, Sandra Equihua hosted one of this year’s most highly anticipated Work in Progress sessions at this year’s Annecy Animation Festival on Wednesday. In the hour-long panel and subsequent Q&a, the pair served up an all you can eat smorgasbord of details which had until now been scant on their upcoming Netflix limited series “Maya and the Three.”
Gutierrez started off by describing a Netflix dinner with many of the people who would go on to form Netflix Animation, where he was asked by Melissa Cobb to, “Pitch us something you don’t think you can get made anywhere.”
“Immediately the tombs of my ancestors all over Mexico began shaking and they said, ‘This is the time, the time to pitch Maya!’” he remembered fondly.
Gutierrez started off by describing a Netflix dinner with many of the people who would go on to form Netflix Animation, where he was asked by Melissa Cobb to, “Pitch us something you don’t think you can get made anywhere.”
“Immediately the tombs of my ancestors all over Mexico began shaking and they said, ‘This is the time, the time to pitch Maya!’” he remembered fondly.
- 6/15/2021
- by Jamie Lang
- Variety Film + TV
“Vivo,” an animated movie that boasts new music from “Hamilton” creator Lin-Manuel Miranda, is coming to Netflix.
The family friendly film was initially scheduled to release in theaters on June 4. But Sony Pictures, the studio that originally backed “Vivo,” has instead offloaded the project to Netflix. It’s unclear when it will debut on the streaming service.
Sony Pictures will retain all rights in China, along with home entertainment and linear television rights everywhere else, following periods of exclusivity on Netflix.
Netflix recently signed a lucrative deal with Sony, which gives the streamer exclusive U.S. rights to the studio’s theatrical releases in the first pay TV window. In addition, Netflix has a first-look deal with Sony’s offerings. However, the pact doesn’t commence until 2022 so it doesn’t include the sale of “Vivo.”
“Vivo” was directed by “The Croods” filmmaker Kirk DeMicco and co-directed by Brandon Jeffords.
The family friendly film was initially scheduled to release in theaters on June 4. But Sony Pictures, the studio that originally backed “Vivo,” has instead offloaded the project to Netflix. It’s unclear when it will debut on the streaming service.
Sony Pictures will retain all rights in China, along with home entertainment and linear television rights everywhere else, following periods of exclusivity on Netflix.
Netflix recently signed a lucrative deal with Sony, which gives the streamer exclusive U.S. rights to the studio’s theatrical releases in the first pay TV window. In addition, Netflix has a first-look deal with Sony’s offerings. However, the pact doesn’t commence until 2022 so it doesn’t include the sale of “Vivo.”
“Vivo” was directed by “The Croods” filmmaker Kirk DeMicco and co-directed by Brandon Jeffords.
- 4/26/2021
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Netflix has licensed all global rights, sans China, to Sony Pictures Animation’s Vivo. The movie, directed by Oscar nominee Kirk DeMicco (The Croods) and co-directed by Brandon Jeffords (Cloudy With a Chance of Meatballs 2) with new songs written and performed by Tony-winning Hamilton creator Lin-Manuel Miranda, was recently scheduled for a theatrical release on June 4. The new drop date on Netflix is still to be determined.
I understand this is a similar deal to Netflix’s pickup of Sony’s Kevin Hart movie Fatherhood whereby Netflix gets the first window, which is streaming, and Sony will retain home entertainment and linear TV rights to all other territories, including China theatrical, after the pic’s exclusive run on the streamer.
Note the recent licensing of Sony’s Vivo by Netflix is outside the streamer’s new multi-year $1 billion deal with the Culver City studio. That deal commences in 2022, as previously reported,...
I understand this is a similar deal to Netflix’s pickup of Sony’s Kevin Hart movie Fatherhood whereby Netflix gets the first window, which is streaming, and Sony will retain home entertainment and linear TV rights to all other territories, including China theatrical, after the pic’s exclusive run on the streamer.
Note the recent licensing of Sony’s Vivo by Netflix is outside the streamer’s new multi-year $1 billion deal with the Culver City studio. That deal commences in 2022, as previously reported,...
- 4/26/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Ava DuVernay is getting into animation with “Wings of Fire,” a Netflix animated event series based on the best-selling children’s book series by Tui T. Sutherland, the streaming service said Tuesday.
Here’s the synopsis for the “Wings of Fire” TV series, which will consist of ten 40-minute episodes:
“A bitter war has raged for generations between the dragon tribes who inhabit the epic world of Pyrrhia. According to prophecy, five young dragons will rise to end the bloodshed and bring peace back to the land. Raised and trained in secret from the time they were hatched, the Dragonets of destiny – Clay, Tsunami, Glory, Starflight, and Sunny – embark on an evolving quest that will bring them face to face with their true selves and the overwhelming scope of this savage war they are destined to bring to an end.”
Dan Milano (“Glitch Techs”) and Christa Starr (“Mystery Science Theater 3000...
Here’s the synopsis for the “Wings of Fire” TV series, which will consist of ten 40-minute episodes:
“A bitter war has raged for generations between the dragon tribes who inhabit the epic world of Pyrrhia. According to prophecy, five young dragons will rise to end the bloodshed and bring peace back to the land. Raised and trained in secret from the time they were hatched, the Dragonets of destiny – Clay, Tsunami, Glory, Starflight, and Sunny – embark on an evolving quest that will bring them face to face with their true selves and the overwhelming scope of this savage war they are destined to bring to an end.”
Dan Milano (“Glitch Techs”) and Christa Starr (“Mystery Science Theater 3000...
- 4/20/2021
- by Jennifer Maas
- The Wrap
Ava DuVernay’s animated adaptation of family fantasy books Wings of Fire is taking off at Netflix.
The streamer has greenlit ten episodes of the animated series, which comes from DuVernay and her Array Filmworks and Warner Bros. Animation.
It comes a year after it emerged that the Queen Sugar creator and When They See Us was developing the project.
Wings of Fire, written by Tui T. Sutherland, will be adapted into ten 40-minute episodes. Dan Milano (Glitch Techs), Christa Starr (Mystery Science Theater 3000), Justin Ridge (Star Wars Resistance) are showrunners and exec producers with Milano and Starr adapting.
DuVernay, Tui T. Sutherland, Sam Register and Sarah Bremner also exec produce.
The series is centered around a bitter war that has raged for generations between the dragon tribes who inhabit the epic world of Pyrrhia. According to prophecy, five young dragons will rise to end the bloodshed and bring peace back to the land.
The streamer has greenlit ten episodes of the animated series, which comes from DuVernay and her Array Filmworks and Warner Bros. Animation.
It comes a year after it emerged that the Queen Sugar creator and When They See Us was developing the project.
Wings of Fire, written by Tui T. Sutherland, will be adapted into ten 40-minute episodes. Dan Milano (Glitch Techs), Christa Starr (Mystery Science Theater 3000), Justin Ridge (Star Wars Resistance) are showrunners and exec producers with Milano and Starr adapting.
DuVernay, Tui T. Sutherland, Sam Register and Sarah Bremner also exec produce.
The series is centered around a bitter war that has raged for generations between the dragon tribes who inhabit the epic world of Pyrrhia. According to prophecy, five young dragons will rise to end the bloodshed and bring peace back to the land.
- 4/20/2021
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Netflix not only grabbed a ton of Oscar nominations for its live-action films, it also grabbed three noms for animated fare including “Over the Moon” and “A Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon.” They scored in the animated feature category alongside Disney/Pixar’s “Soul” and “Onward,” and GKids/Apple TV Plus’ “Wolfwalkers,” while “If Anything Happens, I Love You” is the frontrunner in animated shorts.
It’s an impressive haul for a part of the streaming giant that is relatively new.
“It’s hard to even find the words to describe how thrilling it is,” says Melissa Cobb, VP of kids and family entertainment at Netflix. She is an animation veteran who was brought over from DreamWorks in 2017 to lead the division.
“I started there about 3½ years ago, and for filmmakers to choose to entrust their film, but also their time — three or four years of their life that it...
It’s an impressive haul for a part of the streaming giant that is relatively new.
“It’s hard to even find the words to describe how thrilling it is,” says Melissa Cobb, VP of kids and family entertainment at Netflix. She is an animation veteran who was brought over from DreamWorks in 2017 to lead the division.
“I started there about 3½ years ago, and for filmmakers to choose to entrust their film, but also their time — three or four years of their life that it...
- 4/1/2021
- by Carole Horst
- Variety Film + TV
A day after Nancy Kanter’s last day at Disney, Netflix announced an overall deal with the former EVP, Content and Creative Strategy for Disney Channels Worldwide, who launched and built Disney’s preschool TV channel Disney Junior.
Under the pact, Kanter will develop and produce animated and live-action projects — both feature films and series — targeted at kids and families through her company Available Light Productions.
For Netflix, brining on board Kanter, one of the most respected executives in the kids and family space, is part of a big push in family entertainment as the streamer is taking on the leading SVOD player in the space, Disney+.
“We’re very fired up about catching them in family animation — maybe eventually passing them, we’ll see, a long way to go just to catch them — and maintaining our lead in general entertainment that’s so stimulating,” Netflix’s founder and co-ceo...
Under the pact, Kanter will develop and produce animated and live-action projects — both feature films and series — targeted at kids and families through her company Available Light Productions.
For Netflix, brining on board Kanter, one of the most respected executives in the kids and family space, is part of a big push in family entertainment as the streamer is taking on the leading SVOD player in the space, Disney+.
“We’re very fired up about catching them in family animation — maybe eventually passing them, we’ll see, a long way to go just to catch them — and maintaining our lead in general entertainment that’s so stimulating,” Netflix’s founder and co-ceo...
- 2/1/2021
- by Nellie Andreeva
- Deadline Film + TV
Former Disney Channels Worldwide executive Nancy Kanter has signed an overall deal with Netflix.
Under the deal, Kanter and her Available Light Productions banner will develop and produce animated and live action projects, both feature films and series, for kids and families audiences on Netflix.
“Throughout my career I’ve challenged myself to think differently, imagine bigger and aim higher,” Kanter said. “I am delighted at this opportunity to partner with the innovative creators and executive team at Netflix who value those same aspirations, and I look forward to working with them to create new stories that will inspire the minds and touch the hearts of kids and families everywhere.”
Kanter worked at Disney for 20 years, but her departure was announced last April. She most recently served as executive vice president of content and creative strategy for DIsney Channels Worldwide. She established the Disney Junior brand in her time at the company,...
Under the deal, Kanter and her Available Light Productions banner will develop and produce animated and live action projects, both feature films and series, for kids and families audiences on Netflix.
“Throughout my career I’ve challenged myself to think differently, imagine bigger and aim higher,” Kanter said. “I am delighted at this opportunity to partner with the innovative creators and executive team at Netflix who value those same aspirations, and I look forward to working with them to create new stories that will inspire the minds and touch the hearts of kids and families everywhere.”
Kanter worked at Disney for 20 years, but her departure was announced last April. She most recently served as executive vice president of content and creative strategy for DIsney Channels Worldwide. She established the Disney Junior brand in her time at the company,...
- 2/1/2021
- by Joseph Otterson
- Variety Film + TV
Former Disney executive Nancy Kanter has signed an overall deal at Netflix, the streamer announced Monday.
The agreement will see Kanter, via her Available Light Productions banner, develop and produce new animated and live-action kids and family content for Netflix, including both films and series.
Kanter exited Disney last month after a 20-year run, most recently serving as executive vice president of content and creative strategy at Disney Channels Worldwide. Kanter is credited with launching the Disney Junior brand and shepherding series such as “Doc McStuffins,” “Sofia the First” and “Elena of Avalor.”
Kanter announced plans to step down from her position at Disney last April.
“Throughout my career I’ve challenged myself to think differently, imagine bigger and aim higher,” Kanter said in a statement. “I am delighted at this opportunity to partner with the innovative creators and executive team at Netflix who value those same aspirations, and I...
The agreement will see Kanter, via her Available Light Productions banner, develop and produce new animated and live-action kids and family content for Netflix, including both films and series.
Kanter exited Disney last month after a 20-year run, most recently serving as executive vice president of content and creative strategy at Disney Channels Worldwide. Kanter is credited with launching the Disney Junior brand and shepherding series such as “Doc McStuffins,” “Sofia the First” and “Elena of Avalor.”
Kanter announced plans to step down from her position at Disney last April.
“Throughout my career I’ve challenged myself to think differently, imagine bigger and aim higher,” Kanter said in a statement. “I am delighted at this opportunity to partner with the innovative creators and executive team at Netflix who value those same aspirations, and I...
- 2/1/2021
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
When Glen Keane first read the script for “Over the Moon,” he didn’t realize that Audrey Wells had written her own terminal illness into the main character’s mother. “I didn’t know when I first met her… that she knew she would not live to see this movie. This was really being written for her daughter, helping her move past the grief that she would experience,” he tells Gold Derby in our Meet the Experts: Film Animation panel (watch above). Even though she died in the middle of production, Keane always remembered a conversation they had about this film and “The Wizard of Oz” and how Wells was insistent that the events that transpired in both films were real and not some sort of dream. “She had this incredible, fierce look in her eyes and for her there had to be real roots of sincerity, depth and truth to this story.
- 1/29/2021
- by Charles Bright
- Gold Derby
Netflix has picked up from Sony Pictures Animation the worldwide rights (excluding China) to “The Mitchells Vs. The Machines,” an animated film that’s produced by Phil Lord and Chris Miller, who were behind the Oscar-winning “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse.”
The film at one point had its title changed to “Connected” by the studio, but it has since gone back to its original title. The animated film was supposed to come out theatrically on October 23, 2020 and was then unset.
“The Mitchells Vs The Machines” stars Danny McBride, Abbi Jacobson, Maya Rudolph, Mike Rianda, Eric Andre, Olivia Colman and Blake Griffin. No new release date has been set, but Netflix says it will arrive later this year.
The movie is a family comedy about how technology gets in the way of family connections and involves a father who plans a road trip sans phones or screens to his daughter’s new college,...
The film at one point had its title changed to “Connected” by the studio, but it has since gone back to its original title. The animated film was supposed to come out theatrically on October 23, 2020 and was then unset.
“The Mitchells Vs The Machines” stars Danny McBride, Abbi Jacobson, Maya Rudolph, Mike Rianda, Eric Andre, Olivia Colman and Blake Griffin. No new release date has been set, but Netflix says it will arrive later this year.
The movie is a family comedy about how technology gets in the way of family connections and involves a father who plans a road trip sans phones or screens to his daughter’s new college,...
- 1/21/2021
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Theatrical distribution took another hit, as streamer Netflix acquired “The Mitchells vs. the Machines” (formerly “Connected”) from Sony Pictures Animation. The sci-fi comedy from Oscar-winning producers Phil Lord & Chris Miller (“Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse”) was originally scheduled for release last October 23 but postponed because of the pandemic. It will now stream globally later this year (except in China) under its original title (scripted by director Mike Rianda of “Gravity Falls” fame and co-director Jeff Rowe), and will not compete in this year’s awards season.
“We are overwhelmed by the enthusiasm Netflix has expressed for this movie with this acquisition and grateful to everyone at Sony for making a great picture with us and finding a big way to bring it to audiences,” said Lord & Miller in a prepared statement. “We’re really proud of the film we all made together, plus we understand our subscription fees are waived in...
“We are overwhelmed by the enthusiasm Netflix has expressed for this movie with this acquisition and grateful to everyone at Sony for making a great picture with us and finding a big way to bring it to audiences,” said Lord & Miller in a prepared statement. “We’re really proud of the film we all made together, plus we understand our subscription fees are waived in...
- 1/21/2021
- by Bill Desowitz
- Indiewire
Sony Pictures has sold “The Mitchells vs. The Machines,” an original animated family film from producers Phil Lord and Christopher Miller, to Netflix.
At one point, Sony changed the name from “The Mitchells vs. The Machines” to “Connected,” but it has reverted back to its original title. Sony had planned to release the film theatrically before Netflix acquired worldwide rights. The deal, which excludes China, was reportedly hammered out for more than $100 million. Neither company has confirmed the production budget, but price tags for animated films generally range anywhere from $50 million to $100 million.
Mike Rianda wrote and directed the film with Jeff Rowe. “The Mitchells vs. The Machines” is about an everyday family’s struggle to relate with each other while technology rises up around the world. The film centers on Katie (voiced by Abbi Jacobson), a creative type who gets accepted into her dream film school. Before she begins college,...
At one point, Sony changed the name from “The Mitchells vs. The Machines” to “Connected,” but it has reverted back to its original title. Sony had planned to release the film theatrically before Netflix acquired worldwide rights. The deal, which excludes China, was reportedly hammered out for more than $100 million. Neither company has confirmed the production budget, but price tags for animated films generally range anywhere from $50 million to $100 million.
Mike Rianda wrote and directed the film with Jeff Rowe. “The Mitchells vs. The Machines” is about an everyday family’s struggle to relate with each other while technology rises up around the world. The film centers on Katie (voiced by Abbi Jacobson), a creative type who gets accepted into her dream film school. Before she begins college,...
- 1/21/2021
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
Great animators are also actors, comedians, and scientists. They study the way animals move, the flow of long grass, the grace of scudding clouds, the expressions humans make when they are frustrated, hungry, happy, or in love. And Glen Keane is one of its masters.
In the Disney 2D era he was known for drawing fierce creatures like the the terrifying Bear in “The Fox and the Hound,” Willie the Giant in “Mickey’s Christmas,” and Snidely Whiplash villain Rattigan in “The Great Mouse Detective” — and, the fiercely memorable Ariel in “The Little Mermaid.”
“I was supposed to do Ursula,” he said on the phone. “I loved animating power and strength and weight. I was watching Jodi Benson record with Howard Ashman coaching her, trying to get her to sing from a personal, intimate desire of wanting the impossible, to believe the impossible is possible. As I watched that, I felt,...
In the Disney 2D era he was known for drawing fierce creatures like the the terrifying Bear in “The Fox and the Hound,” Willie the Giant in “Mickey’s Christmas,” and Snidely Whiplash villain Rattigan in “The Great Mouse Detective” — and, the fiercely memorable Ariel in “The Little Mermaid.”
“I was supposed to do Ursula,” he said on the phone. “I loved animating power and strength and weight. I was watching Jodi Benson record with Howard Ashman coaching her, trying to get her to sing from a personal, intimate desire of wanting the impossible, to believe the impossible is possible. As I watched that, I felt,...
- 11/30/2020
- by Anne Thompson
- Indiewire
Great animators are also actors, comedians, and scientists. They study the way animals move, the flow of long grass, the grace of scudding clouds, the expressions humans make when they are frustrated, hungry, happy, or in love. And Glen Keane is one of its masters.
In the Disney 2D era he was known for drawing fierce creatures like the the terrifying Bear in “The Fox and the Hound,” Willie the Giant in “Mickey’s Christmas,” and Snidely Whiplash villain Rattigan in “The Great Mouse Detective” — and, the fiercely memorable Ariel in “The Little Mermaid.”
“I was supposed to do Ursula,” he said on the phone. “I loved animating power and strength and weight. I was watching Jodi Benson record with Howard Ashman coaching her, trying to get her to sing from a personal, intimate desire of wanting the impossible, to believe the impossible is possible. As I watched that, I felt,...
In the Disney 2D era he was known for drawing fierce creatures like the the terrifying Bear in “The Fox and the Hound,” Willie the Giant in “Mickey’s Christmas,” and Snidely Whiplash villain Rattigan in “The Great Mouse Detective” — and, the fiercely memorable Ariel in “The Little Mermaid.”
“I was supposed to do Ursula,” he said on the phone. “I loved animating power and strength and weight. I was watching Jodi Benson record with Howard Ashman coaching her, trying to get her to sing from a personal, intimate desire of wanting the impossible, to believe the impossible is possible. As I watched that, I felt,...
- 11/30/2020
- by Anne Thompson
- Thompson on Hollywood
Max Keane isn’t new to the family’s animation business. He’s worked on many of his dad Glen Keane’s post-Disney projects, including the shorts “Duet” and the Oscar-winning “Dear Basketball” as production designer. But as creator and showrunner of the latest Glen Keane Prods. project, “Trash Truck,” Max is in the driver’s seat for the first time.
The preschooler kids series about an imaginative 6-year-old boy, Hank, and his vehicular best friend debuted on Netflix on Nov. 10 with a dozen 11-minute episodes. Max Keane is creator-showrunner and executive produces along with his father and Gennie Rim, CEO at Glen Keane Prods., the company his dad formed in 2012 after years as a Disney animator.
“It’s an idea I stole from my son [Henry],” Max Keane admits. “When he was 1½, he was completely obsessed with garbage trucks.” At first, Keane couldn’t figure out why Henry was so enchanted by the big,...
The preschooler kids series about an imaginative 6-year-old boy, Hank, and his vehicular best friend debuted on Netflix on Nov. 10 with a dozen 11-minute episodes. Max Keane is creator-showrunner and executive produces along with his father and Gennie Rim, CEO at Glen Keane Prods., the company his dad formed in 2012 after years as a Disney animator.
“It’s an idea I stole from my son [Henry],” Max Keane admits. “When he was 1½, he was completely obsessed with garbage trucks.” At first, Keane couldn’t figure out why Henry was so enchanted by the big,...
- 11/10/2020
- by Terry Flores
- Variety Film + TV
Netflix Animation and Pearl Studio’s “Over the Moon,” longtime animator Glen Keane’s feature directing debut, lifts off on Oct. 23 after a journey that, in some ways, mirrored that of the film’s young heroine, Fei Fei.
Fei Fei, still mourning the death of her mother some years earlier, builds a rocket so she can go to the moon and ask the goddess Chang’e to help persuade her father not to remarry. Halfway through production, screenwriter Audrey Wells died after battling cancer and her script “was a love letter to her daughter and for her husband,” says“Over the Moon” producer Gennie Rim.
“When we first met her, she said, ‘All of my movies are about healing. And this is no different. This, if anything, is the most important job I’ve ever done.’ At the time, I didn’t understand exactly what that meant.” Rim says she...
Fei Fei, still mourning the death of her mother some years earlier, builds a rocket so she can go to the moon and ask the goddess Chang’e to help persuade her father not to remarry. Halfway through production, screenwriter Audrey Wells died after battling cancer and her script “was a love letter to her daughter and for her husband,” says“Over the Moon” producer Gennie Rim.
“When we first met her, she said, ‘All of my movies are about healing. And this is no different. This, if anything, is the most important job I’ve ever done.’ At the time, I didn’t understand exactly what that meant.” Rim says she...
- 10/23/2020
- by Carole Horst
- Variety Film + TV
Chris Nee and her production company Laughing Wild are best known for creating all-inclusive children’s programming such as Doc McStuffins and Vampirina in bringing more representation to Netflix. The Peabody, Emmy, and Humanitas Prize-winning producer and writer has unveiled her first slate of series heading to the streaming giant — all of which are part of her overall deal.
“I am so excited to finally get to talk about the work I’m doing at Netflix,” said Nee. “As a writer and creator, I have so many stories I want to tell. I could easily fill my slate with my own voice. But one of the reasons I chose Netflix is that they afford me the opportunity to not only tell my stories but shine a spotlight on other talented creators and help them tell theirs.”
Nee added, “I know what it’s like to grow up not seeing myself...
“I am so excited to finally get to talk about the work I’m doing at Netflix,” said Nee. “As a writer and creator, I have so many stories I want to tell. I could easily fill my slate with my own voice. But one of the reasons I chose Netflix is that they afford me the opportunity to not only tell my stories but shine a spotlight on other talented creators and help them tell theirs.”
Nee added, “I know what it’s like to grow up not seeing myself...
- 10/15/2020
- by Dino-Ray Ramos
- Deadline Film + TV
Animator/writer/director Jorge Gutierrez (Maya and the Three) is expanding his relationship with Netflix, signing an overall deal with the streaming giant for original content. Under the pact, the Emmy-winning Gutierrez will write, direct, and produce new animated films, series and interactive projects across preschool, kids & family and adult animation via his Mexopolis production company.
Gutierrez is the creator, writer and director of the upcoming Netflix animated limited series Maya and the Three, a Mesoamerican fantasy epic set to premiere globally in 2021. Set in a mythical Mesoamerican inspired world, in Maya and the Three, a warrior princess embarks on a quest to recruit three legendary fighters to help save the world of men and gods.
Gutierrez is the director and co-writer of the Guillermo Del Toro produced animated feature The Book of Life for Fox which earned him a 2014 Golden Globe Award nomination for Best Animated feature film. He...
Gutierrez is the creator, writer and director of the upcoming Netflix animated limited series Maya and the Three, a Mesoamerican fantasy epic set to premiere globally in 2021. Set in a mythical Mesoamerican inspired world, in Maya and the Three, a warrior princess embarks on a quest to recruit three legendary fighters to help save the world of men and gods.
Gutierrez is the director and co-writer of the Guillermo Del Toro produced animated feature The Book of Life for Fox which earned him a 2014 Golden Globe Award nomination for Best Animated feature film. He...
- 10/14/2020
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
The lush colors and ornate design that helmer Jorge Gutiérrez featured in his film “The Book of Life” makes one thing clear: he’s a romantic.
“It’s true, I’m an optimist, a romantic,” laughs Gutiérrez, who is Variety’s Creative Impact in Animation honoree this year. “I’ve never had my heart broken. I married the first girl I fell in love with.”
Gutiérrez’s keen skills as an animator and particular voice as a filmmaker led him from his childhood in Mexico City to CalArts, collaborations with industry giants including Guillermo del Toro, and such developing series as the beloved “El Tigre: The Adventures of Manny Rivera.” In 2021, Gutiérrez’s latest project, “Maya and the Three” will premiere on Netflix.
Underlining Netflix’s commitment to Gutiérrez and to animation, the streamer on Oct. 14 unveiled an expanded partnership with the animator and his production company Mexopolis for original content.
“It’s true, I’m an optimist, a romantic,” laughs Gutiérrez, who is Variety’s Creative Impact in Animation honoree this year. “I’ve never had my heart broken. I married the first girl I fell in love with.”
Gutiérrez’s keen skills as an animator and particular voice as a filmmaker led him from his childhood in Mexico City to CalArts, collaborations with industry giants including Guillermo del Toro, and such developing series as the beloved “El Tigre: The Adventures of Manny Rivera.” In 2021, Gutiérrez’s latest project, “Maya and the Three” will premiere on Netflix.
Underlining Netflix’s commitment to Gutiérrez and to animation, the streamer on Oct. 14 unveiled an expanded partnership with the animator and his production company Mexopolis for original content.
- 10/14/2020
- by Karen Idelson
- Variety Film + TV
Jorge Gutierrez is expanding his relationship with Netflix beyond the fantasy animated series “Maya and the Three” he already has coming to the streamer next year.
The animator, best known for directing 2014’s “The Book Of Life,” and his his production company Mexopolis have signed an overall deal with Netflix. Under the deal, Gutierrez will write, direct, and produce new animated films, series and interactive projects across Netflix’s preschool, kids & family and adult animation divisions.
“Dang! I could not be more thankful to extend my creative love affair with my beloved Netflix,” said Gutierrez in a statement. “Melissa Cobb and the entire Netflix Animation team match my endless passion for diversity and inclusion in front and behind the camera. After all the kindness that has been shown to me, I look forward to mentoring and empowering diverse storytellers from not only North America, but also Central and South America.
The animator, best known for directing 2014’s “The Book Of Life,” and his his production company Mexopolis have signed an overall deal with Netflix. Under the deal, Gutierrez will write, direct, and produce new animated films, series and interactive projects across Netflix’s preschool, kids & family and adult animation divisions.
“Dang! I could not be more thankful to extend my creative love affair with my beloved Netflix,” said Gutierrez in a statement. “Melissa Cobb and the entire Netflix Animation team match my endless passion for diversity and inclusion in front and behind the camera. After all the kindness that has been shown to me, I look forward to mentoring and empowering diverse storytellers from not only North America, but also Central and South America.
- 10/14/2020
- by Will Thorne
- Variety Film + TV
President Barack Obama and Michelle Obama’s production company Higher Ground Productions is getting into the kids’ TV business with an animated preschool series from Doc McStuffins creator Chris Nee and Netflix.
The streamer has ordered 40, 12-minute episodes of Ada Twist, Scientist, which is based on the book series by author Andrea Beaty and illustrator David Roberts.
The series, which will launch in 2021, follows Ada Twist, a young Black scientist who will explore helping people through scientific discovery, collaboration and friendship.
Kerri Grant, a writer on Mira, Royal Detective and Nella the Princess Knight, will serve as showrunner. Wonder Worldwide, the company behind Netflix’s The Christmas Chronicles, also is a producing partner on the project, which is the first series under Netflix’s overall deal with Nee and her production company Laughing Wild.
Eight-year old Ada Twist is a pint-size scientist with a giant-size curiosity who aspires to discover the truth about absolutely everything.
The streamer has ordered 40, 12-minute episodes of Ada Twist, Scientist, which is based on the book series by author Andrea Beaty and illustrator David Roberts.
The series, which will launch in 2021, follows Ada Twist, a young Black scientist who will explore helping people through scientific discovery, collaboration and friendship.
Kerri Grant, a writer on Mira, Royal Detective and Nella the Princess Knight, will serve as showrunner. Wonder Worldwide, the company behind Netflix’s The Christmas Chronicles, also is a producing partner on the project, which is the first series under Netflix’s overall deal with Nee and her production company Laughing Wild.
Eight-year old Ada Twist is a pint-size scientist with a giant-size curiosity who aspires to discover the truth about absolutely everything.
- 10/1/2020
- by Peter White
- Deadline Film + TV
Netflix has lined up a new animated children’s series from “Doc McStuffins” creator Chris Nee and Barack and Michelle Obama, the streamer announced Thursday.
The series, titled “Ada Twist, Scientist” centers on a young Black scientist who will explore helping people through scientific discovery, collaboration and friendship. The series, based on the book series by author Andrea Beaty and illustrator David Roberts, is set to debut with 40 12-minute episodes next year.
“Doc McStuffings” and “Elena of Avalor” alum Kerri Grant serves as showrunner on the series.
Here’s the full series description:
Ada Twist, Scientist follows the adventures of eight-year-old Ada Twist, a pint-sized scientist with a giant-sized curiosity, who aspires to discover the truth about absolutely everything. With the help of her two best friends, Rosie Revere and Iggy Peck, Ada unravels and solves mysteries for her friends and family. But solving the mystery is only the beginning,...
The series, titled “Ada Twist, Scientist” centers on a young Black scientist who will explore helping people through scientific discovery, collaboration and friendship. The series, based on the book series by author Andrea Beaty and illustrator David Roberts, is set to debut with 40 12-minute episodes next year.
“Doc McStuffings” and “Elena of Avalor” alum Kerri Grant serves as showrunner on the series.
Here’s the full series description:
Ada Twist, Scientist follows the adventures of eight-year-old Ada Twist, a pint-sized scientist with a giant-sized curiosity, who aspires to discover the truth about absolutely everything. With the help of her two best friends, Rosie Revere and Iggy Peck, Ada unravels and solves mysteries for her friends and family. But solving the mystery is only the beginning,...
- 10/1/2020
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
The Baby-Sitters Club is coming to Netflix this summer.
The streamer announced the news Friday, while also dropping a teaser trailer.
On July 3, all ten episodes of the first season will be available to stream, so at least we know Netflix will still have content in the summer.
Score, right?
The Baby-Sitters Club is based on the best-selling, beloved book series that follows the friendship and adventures of Kristy Thomas (Sophie Grace), Mary Anne Spier (Malia Baker), Claudia Kishi (Momona Tamada), Stacey McGill (Shay Rudolph) and Dawn Schafer (Xochitl Gomez) as the middle-schoolers start their babysitting business in the town of Stoneybrook, Connecticut.
Rounding out the cast, Alicia Silverstone plays Elizabeth Thomas-Brewer, the selfless single mother of Kristy Thomas and love interest of all around good guy Watson Brewer, played by Mark Feuerstein. Ann M. Martin, the series author and show producer, conceived the idea of these inspiring young girls with different backgrounds,...
The streamer announced the news Friday, while also dropping a teaser trailer.
On July 3, all ten episodes of the first season will be available to stream, so at least we know Netflix will still have content in the summer.
Score, right?
The Baby-Sitters Club is based on the best-selling, beloved book series that follows the friendship and adventures of Kristy Thomas (Sophie Grace), Mary Anne Spier (Malia Baker), Claudia Kishi (Momona Tamada), Stacey McGill (Shay Rudolph) and Dawn Schafer (Xochitl Gomez) as the middle-schoolers start their babysitting business in the town of Stoneybrook, Connecticut.
Rounding out the cast, Alicia Silverstone plays Elizabeth Thomas-Brewer, the selfless single mother of Kristy Thomas and love interest of all around good guy Watson Brewer, played by Mark Feuerstein. Ann M. Martin, the series author and show producer, conceived the idea of these inspiring young girls with different backgrounds,...
- 5/8/2020
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
Netflix has appointed Bruce Daitch as vice president of animation, Variety has learned. Daitch is an industry veteran, having previously served as both chief operating officer and chief financial officer of Dreamworks Animation, the maker of “Shrek” and “Kung Fu Panda.”
In his new role, Daitch will oversee production strategy and operations for Netflix’s global animation efforts. His appointment comes as Netflix has bet heavily on the kids and family space, partnering with top talent such as Jorge R. Gutiérrez (“Book of Life”), Glen Keane (“The Little Mermaid”), and Nora Twomey (“The Secret of Kells”) on upcoming films and series. That push comes as Disney has entered the streaming fray, offering up its own family-friendly streaming service with Disney Plus.
Daitch will report to Vice President of Physical Production Ty Warren and will work closely with the content and production teams in original animation and original series animation to...
In his new role, Daitch will oversee production strategy and operations for Netflix’s global animation efforts. His appointment comes as Netflix has bet heavily on the kids and family space, partnering with top talent such as Jorge R. Gutiérrez (“Book of Life”), Glen Keane (“The Little Mermaid”), and Nora Twomey (“The Secret of Kells”) on upcoming films and series. That push comes as Disney has entered the streaming fray, offering up its own family-friendly streaming service with Disney Plus.
Daitch will report to Vice President of Physical Production Ty Warren and will work closely with the content and production teams in original animation and original series animation to...
- 5/4/2020
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Netflix’s new series The Baby-Sitters Club has finally unveiled its cast.
The new series based on the best-selling book series, that follows the friendship and adventures of Kristy Thomas (Sophie Grace), Mary-Anne Spier (Malia Baker), Claudia Kishi (Momona Tamada), Stacey McGill (Shay Rudolph), and Dawn Schafer (Xochitl Gomez) as the middle-schoolers start their babysitting business in the town of Stoneybrook, Connecticut.
Rounding out the cast, Alicia Silverstone plays Elizabeth Thomas-Brewer, the selfless single-mother of Kristy Thomas and love interest of all around good guy Watson Brewer, played by Mark Feuerstein.
Ann M. Martin, the beloved series author and producer on the new series, was the first to conceive the idea of these inspiring young girls with different backgrounds, personalities and opinions that were brought together by a business venture they conceived and bonded through the friendships they forged.
The adaptation of the contemporary dramedy that continues to champion friendship,...
The new series based on the best-selling book series, that follows the friendship and adventures of Kristy Thomas (Sophie Grace), Mary-Anne Spier (Malia Baker), Claudia Kishi (Momona Tamada), Stacey McGill (Shay Rudolph), and Dawn Schafer (Xochitl Gomez) as the middle-schoolers start their babysitting business in the town of Stoneybrook, Connecticut.
Rounding out the cast, Alicia Silverstone plays Elizabeth Thomas-Brewer, the selfless single-mother of Kristy Thomas and love interest of all around good guy Watson Brewer, played by Mark Feuerstein.
Ann M. Martin, the beloved series author and producer on the new series, was the first to conceive the idea of these inspiring young girls with different backgrounds, personalities and opinions that were brought together by a business venture they conceived and bonded through the friendships they forged.
The adaptation of the contemporary dramedy that continues to champion friendship,...
- 3/12/2020
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
Taika Waititi has been tasked with launching Netflix’s animated Roald Dahl Universe – a gig that will manifest with Two series adaptations based on the legendary author’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.
Netflix has tapped Waititi – who’s coming off a recent Best Adapted Screenplay Oscar win for JoJo Rabbit – to write, direct and executive-produce the two original shows, each of which will explore distinct sides of Dahl’s most famous literary offering, the two-time-movie-adapted 1964 novel, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. One series will be a straight adaptation of the traditional story and characters, with the other set to focus on candy man Willy Wonka’s diminutive helpers, the cautionary-song-singing Oompa-Loompas. As Netflix describes of its plans:
“The shows will retain the quintessential spirit and tone of the original story while building out the world and characters far beyond the pages of the Dahl book for the very first time.
Netflix has tapped Waititi – who’s coming off a recent Best Adapted Screenplay Oscar win for JoJo Rabbit – to write, direct and executive-produce the two original shows, each of which will explore distinct sides of Dahl’s most famous literary offering, the two-time-movie-adapted 1964 novel, Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. One series will be a straight adaptation of the traditional story and characters, with the other set to focus on candy man Willy Wonka’s diminutive helpers, the cautionary-song-singing Oompa-Loompas. As Netflix describes of its plans:
“The shows will retain the quintessential spirit and tone of the original story while building out the world and characters far beyond the pages of the Dahl book for the very first time.
- 3/5/2020
- by Alec Bojalad
- Den of Geek
Taika Waititi is partnering with Netflix on a pair of animated series — one based on the world of “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” and another based on the Oompa-Loompa characters.
Waititi, who won an Academy Award for the “Jojo Rabbit” adapted screenplay, will write, direct, and executive produce both projects. The two “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” movies were based on the 1964 children’s novel by Roald Dahl about the adventures of young Charlie Bucket inside the chocolate factory of Willy Wonka.
The Oompa-Loompas are small humans who were preyed upon in Loompaland before Wonka invited them to work at his factory. They are paid in cocoa beans and are also mischievous, loving practical jokes and singing songs.
“The shows will retain the quintessential spirit and tone of the original story while building out the world and characters far beyond the pages of the Dahl book for the very first time,...
Waititi, who won an Academy Award for the “Jojo Rabbit” adapted screenplay, will write, direct, and executive produce both projects. The two “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory” movies were based on the 1964 children’s novel by Roald Dahl about the adventures of young Charlie Bucket inside the chocolate factory of Willy Wonka.
The Oompa-Loompas are small humans who were preyed upon in Loompaland before Wonka invited them to work at his factory. They are paid in cocoa beans and are also mischievous, loving practical jokes and singing songs.
“The shows will retain the quintessential spirit and tone of the original story while building out the world and characters far beyond the pages of the Dahl book for the very first time,...
- 3/5/2020
- by Dave McNary
- Variety Film + TV
In the wake of winning the best adapated screenplay Oscar for Jojo Rabbit, Taika Waititi is attached to write, direct, and executive produce two original animated series for Netflix based off Roald Dahl’s Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. The first will be based on that book’s characters, and the second is a wholly original take on the Oompa-Loompas. While capturing the spirit of Dahl’s book, both series will build out the world beyond the author’s pages.
Waititi’s boarding these two series reps the start of an extensive partnership between Netflix and The Roald Dahl Story Company, which plans to reimagine many of his beloved stories including Matilda, The Bfg, The Twits, and others. They will join a growing slate of Netflix animated family pics including Oscar nominated Klaus from Sergio Pablos, The Willoughbys from Kris Pearn and Over The Moon from Glen Keane in 2020.
“I...
Waititi’s boarding these two series reps the start of an extensive partnership between Netflix and The Roald Dahl Story Company, which plans to reimagine many of his beloved stories including Matilda, The Bfg, The Twits, and others. They will join a growing slate of Netflix animated family pics including Oscar nominated Klaus from Sergio Pablos, The Willoughbys from Kris Pearn and Over The Moon from Glen Keane in 2020.
“I...
- 3/5/2020
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Taika Waititi is heading to Loompaland. The “Jojo Rabbit” director is set to helm a pair of animated series for Netflix based on Roald Dahl’s children’s classic “Charlie and the Chocolate Factory,” with one centered on the Oompa Loompas.
The other series, according to Netflix, is “based on the world and characters of ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.'” Waititi will write, direct and executive produce the series, which fall under Netflix’s 2018 deal with The Roald Dahl Story Company.
“I grew up reading Dahl stories and lived large parts of my young life in those magical worlds, so finding just the right creative partner to bring Willy Wonka, Charlie and the Oompa Loompas to life in animation was a daunting task…until Taika walked into the room. Then, it was really obvious. If Dahl had created a character of a filmmaker to adapt his work, I’m...
The other series, according to Netflix, is “based on the world and characters of ‘Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.'” Waititi will write, direct and executive produce the series, which fall under Netflix’s 2018 deal with The Roald Dahl Story Company.
“I grew up reading Dahl stories and lived large parts of my young life in those magical worlds, so finding just the right creative partner to bring Willy Wonka, Charlie and the Oompa Loompas to life in animation was a daunting task…until Taika walked into the room. Then, it was really obvious. If Dahl had created a character of a filmmaker to adapt his work, I’m...
- 3/5/2020
- by Tim Baysinger
- The Wrap
McCartney created original songs and music for film based on children’s adventure novel he co-wrote.
Netflix has boarded Gaumont’s animated feature adaptation of Paul McCartney’s children novel High In The Clouds revolving around the woodland adventures of a young squirrel.
McCartney co-wrote the 2005 adventure novel with Philip Ardagh and it was illustrated by Geoff Dunbar.
”I’ve always loved animated films and this is a hugely important passion project for me. I can’t wait for the world to see it,” said McCartney, who has created and produced all the original songs and music for the film.
Netflix has boarded Gaumont’s animated feature adaptation of Paul McCartney’s children novel High In The Clouds revolving around the woodland adventures of a young squirrel.
McCartney co-wrote the 2005 adventure novel with Philip Ardagh and it was illustrated by Geoff Dunbar.
”I’ve always loved animated films and this is a hugely important passion project for me. I can’t wait for the world to see it,” said McCartney, who has created and produced all the original songs and music for the film.
- 12/10/2019
- by 1100380¦Melanie Goodfellow¦0¦
- ScreenDaily
Netflix is going to get high high high with its adaptation of “High in the Clouds,” a children’s book written by Paul McCartney, Netflix announced Tuesday.
Netflix is producing an animated feature film based on McCartney’s book “High in the Clouds” first published in 2005. Netflix will produce along with Gaumont, which originally optioned the book back in 2017.
Timothy Reckart is directing from a screenplay by Jon Croker, who wrote both of the “Paddington” films. McCartney himself will also produce and provide original songs and music for the movie.
Also Read: Watch Rihanna and Paul McCartney's 'How Are You on My Flight?' Midair Reunion (Video)
“High in the Clouds” is the story of an imaginative teenage squirrel named Wirral who finds himself pulled into a ramshackle gang of teenage rebels who live high in the clouds after he accidentally antagonizes Gretsch the owl, the tyrannical leader (and fabulous singer!
Netflix is producing an animated feature film based on McCartney’s book “High in the Clouds” first published in 2005. Netflix will produce along with Gaumont, which originally optioned the book back in 2017.
Timothy Reckart is directing from a screenplay by Jon Croker, who wrote both of the “Paddington” films. McCartney himself will also produce and provide original songs and music for the movie.
Also Read: Watch Rihanna and Paul McCartney's 'How Are You on My Flight?' Midair Reunion (Video)
“High in the Clouds” is the story of an imaginative teenage squirrel named Wirral who finds himself pulled into a ramshackle gang of teenage rebels who live high in the clouds after he accidentally antagonizes Gretsch the owl, the tyrannical leader (and fabulous singer!
- 12/10/2019
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Netflix has picked up U.S., Canadian, and Latin American rights to Aardman’s latest stop-motion feature, “A Shaun the Sheep Movie: Farmageddon,” the sci-fi/comedy sequel to the Oscar-nominated “Shaun the Sheep Movie.” Co-directed by Aardman animators Richard Phelan and Will Becher, and revolving around a martian toddler, “Farmageddon” will stream in early 2020; Netflix will support an Oscar-qualifying theatrical run next season.
This bolsters Netflix’s ambitious slate of nearly a dozen animated features, coming on the heels of this month’s initial two, Oscar-buzzy, releases: “Klaus,” the charming Santa origin story with innovative 2D, and “I Lost My Body,” the acclaimed French existential mystery about a severed hand that’s the most original animated feature of the season. After only two years, Netflix has quickly established itself as a viable alternative to the Hollywood studios and a direct competitor to indies GKids and Sony Pictures Classics.
Led by Melissa Cobb,...
This bolsters Netflix’s ambitious slate of nearly a dozen animated features, coming on the heels of this month’s initial two, Oscar-buzzy, releases: “Klaus,” the charming Santa origin story with innovative 2D, and “I Lost My Body,” the acclaimed French existential mystery about a severed hand that’s the most original animated feature of the season. After only two years, Netflix has quickly established itself as a viable alternative to the Hollywood studios and a direct competitor to indies GKids and Sony Pictures Classics.
Led by Melissa Cobb,...
- 11/22/2019
- by Bill Desowitz
- Indiewire
Shamus Kelley Nov 13, 2019
Feature films and television series, based on classic Nickelodeon characters and all-new IP, will be heading to Netflix!
If you're a hardcore Nickelodeon fan, Netflix is about to become your new home! The streaming powerhouse and long-time kids content maker have announced that they've formed a new, multi-year deal to produce original animated feature films and television series. These will include movies and TV shows based on the Nickelodeon library of characters and all-new IP. Some of this content will even be made with adults in mind.
This isn't the first time Nickelodeon and Netflix have worked together. Nickelodeon has released two animated specials through Netflix including Rocko's Modern Life: Static Cling and Invader Zim: Enter the Florpus. We also know there's a live-action Avatar: The Last Airbender series in the works along with specials based on The Loud House and Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
Feature films and television series, based on classic Nickelodeon characters and all-new IP, will be heading to Netflix!
If you're a hardcore Nickelodeon fan, Netflix is about to become your new home! The streaming powerhouse and long-time kids content maker have announced that they've formed a new, multi-year deal to produce original animated feature films and television series. These will include movies and TV shows based on the Nickelodeon library of characters and all-new IP. Some of this content will even be made with adults in mind.
This isn't the first time Nickelodeon and Netflix have worked together. Nickelodeon has released two animated specials through Netflix including Rocko's Modern Life: Static Cling and Invader Zim: Enter the Florpus. We also know there's a live-action Avatar: The Last Airbender series in the works along with specials based on The Loud House and Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
- 11/13/2019
- Den of Geek
Netflix and Nickelodeon announced today that they’ve formed a multi-year output deal to produce original animated feature films and television series. The kid and family-targeted films and series will be based on both Nickelodeon’s existing library of original characters and new IP.
“Nickelodeon’s next step forward is to keep expanding beyond linear platforms, and our broader content partnership with Netflix is a key path toward that goal,” said Brian Robbins, President of Nickelodeon, in a statement.
Robbins added, “The Nickelodeon Animation Studio is home to the world-class artists and storytellers behind some of the most iconic characters and shows ever made, and our head of Animation, Ramsey Naito, has been building on that legacy over the past year by ramping up development and production exponentially. The ideas and work at our Studio are flowing, and we can’t wait to work with Melissa and the Netflix team...
“Nickelodeon’s next step forward is to keep expanding beyond linear platforms, and our broader content partnership with Netflix is a key path toward that goal,” said Brian Robbins, President of Nickelodeon, in a statement.
Robbins added, “The Nickelodeon Animation Studio is home to the world-class artists and storytellers behind some of the most iconic characters and shows ever made, and our head of Animation, Ramsey Naito, has been building on that legacy over the past year by ramping up development and production exponentially. The ideas and work at our Studio are flowing, and we can’t wait to work with Melissa and the Netflix team...
- 11/13/2019
- by LaToya Ferguson
- Indiewire
Nickelodeon is in it for the long haul with Netflix.
The two companies on Wednesday revealed that Nickelodeon would produce original animated movies and television shows for the streaming service.
Little has been revealed about the deal aside from the above, but we do know that the deal is for new shows, meaning that shows from the cabler's back catalog will not automatically be available to stream on Netflix.
It would be a major coup for Netflix to score Nickelodeon's catalog of shows, but after what happened when SpongeBob SquarePants and Dore the Explorer were licensed to Netflix years ago, it makes sense.
As you will probably be aware, the relationship between the two companies was frosty for a while after people were flocking to Netflix to watch those shows ad-free instead of keeping up with pay-tv.
Thankfully, the two companies are back on good terms, and this output deal should continue that relationship.
The two companies on Wednesday revealed that Nickelodeon would produce original animated movies and television shows for the streaming service.
Little has been revealed about the deal aside from the above, but we do know that the deal is for new shows, meaning that shows from the cabler's back catalog will not automatically be available to stream on Netflix.
It would be a major coup for Netflix to score Nickelodeon's catalog of shows, but after what happened when SpongeBob SquarePants and Dore the Explorer were licensed to Netflix years ago, it makes sense.
As you will probably be aware, the relationship between the two companies was frosty for a while after people were flocking to Netflix to watch those shows ad-free instead of keeping up with pay-tv.
Thankfully, the two companies are back on good terms, and this output deal should continue that relationship.
- 11/13/2019
- by Paul Dailly
- TVfanatic
In an expansion of their relationship, Netflix and Nickelodeon have formed a new multi-year output deal to produce original animated features and television series, based on both existing Nickelodeon characters as well as brand-new ones.
The Viacom-owned kids content producer has previously brought to life “Rocko’s Modern Life: Static Cling” and “Invader Zim: Enter the Florpus” to Netflix, and currently in the works are specials based on “The Loud House” and “Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja
Turtles.”
“Nickelodeon has generated scores of characters that kids love, and we look forward to telling wholly original stories that re-imagine and expand on the worlds they inhabit,” said Netflix vice president of original animation Melissa Cobb. “We’re thrilled to continue collaborating with Brian Robbins, Ramsey Naito, and the creative team at Nickelodeon in new ways as we look to find fresh voices and bring bold stories to our global audience on Netflix.
The Viacom-owned kids content producer has previously brought to life “Rocko’s Modern Life: Static Cling” and “Invader Zim: Enter the Florpus” to Netflix, and currently in the works are specials based on “The Loud House” and “Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja
Turtles.”
“Nickelodeon has generated scores of characters that kids love, and we look forward to telling wholly original stories that re-imagine and expand on the worlds they inhabit,” said Netflix vice president of original animation Melissa Cobb. “We’re thrilled to continue collaborating with Brian Robbins, Ramsey Naito, and the creative team at Nickelodeon in new ways as we look to find fresh voices and bring bold stories to our global audience on Netflix.
- 11/13/2019
- by Elaine Low
- Variety Film + TV
Just a day after CBS chief Joe Ianniello noted the addition of children’s programming to CBS All Access, Viacom has gone the other strategic direction, setting a multi-year licensing deal for Nickelodeon kids fare with Netflix.
The output arrangement will yield original animated feature films and TV series based on existing Nickelodeon library characters as well as newly created ones. Forthcoming specials under the agreement will be based on The Loud House and Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
The deal builds on a relationship that has brought animated specials Rocko’s Modern Life: Static Cling and Invader Zim: Enter the Florpus to Netflix. The streaming giant and Viacom’s Paramount Pictures are in the middle of a multi-picture deal that has produced popular titles like To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before.
With the Viacom-cbs merger just weeks away from closing, debate continues to rage across...
The output arrangement will yield original animated feature films and TV series based on existing Nickelodeon library characters as well as newly created ones. Forthcoming specials under the agreement will be based on The Loud House and Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
The deal builds on a relationship that has brought animated specials Rocko’s Modern Life: Static Cling and Invader Zim: Enter the Florpus to Netflix. The streaming giant and Viacom’s Paramount Pictures are in the middle of a multi-picture deal that has produced popular titles like To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before.
With the Viacom-cbs merger just weeks away from closing, debate continues to rage across...
- 11/13/2019
- by Dade Hayes
- Deadline Film + TV
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