Exclusive: Build-a-Bear’s stuffed animal characters have inspired development of animated series Kabu.
Build-a-Bear Entertainment, Foundation Media Partners and Montreal toon maker Laughing Dragon Studios are working up a 10-part show, aimed at 7-11s, and release an exclusive first look at the upcoming Kidscreen Summit.
Mike Mariano, writer and producer on network sitcoms such as Raising Hope and My Name is Earl, is writing alongside Drew Gormley (Family Guy), Claire Ross Dunn, Brian Clark (Glisten and the Merry Mission) and Monica Kelly (Cocomelon).
Build-a-Bear President and CEO Sharon Price John and Foundation Media CEO Patrick Hughes executive producing the series.
The show is billed as a “stylized, colorful new offering with a fun ensemble cast of a variety of ‘stuffed animal’ friends,” with the creative influenced by the popularity of kawaii styling and each episode utilizing “an entertaining, sometimes ‘wacky’ way of...
Build-a-Bear Entertainment, Foundation Media Partners and Montreal toon maker Laughing Dragon Studios are working up a 10-part show, aimed at 7-11s, and release an exclusive first look at the upcoming Kidscreen Summit.
Mike Mariano, writer and producer on network sitcoms such as Raising Hope and My Name is Earl, is writing alongside Drew Gormley (Family Guy), Claire Ross Dunn, Brian Clark (Glisten and the Merry Mission) and Monica Kelly (Cocomelon).
Build-a-Bear President and CEO Sharon Price John and Foundation Media CEO Patrick Hughes executive producing the series.
The show is billed as a “stylized, colorful new offering with a fun ensemble cast of a variety of ‘stuffed animal’ friends,” with the creative influenced by the popularity of kawaii styling and each episode utilizing “an entertaining, sometimes ‘wacky’ way of...
- 1/17/2024
- by Jesse Whittock
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Build-a-Bear Entertainment is poised to experiment with a new model for theatrical distribution after locking a nationwide release for its starry animated feature, Glisten and the Merry Mission, with Cinemark. Under the deal with the distributor, which is one of the world’s largest and most influential in theatrical, the film will roll out November 3rd.
Enhancing the program is a special promotion at select Build-a-Bear Workshop locations, through which those who purchase a make-your-own furry friend will be offered a free child’s ticket. Also on the docket for Build-a-Bear and Cinemark are special events at select theaters which will feature appearances by the pic’s lead character, Glisten the enchanted snow deer, as well as unique bear-building experiences with plush versions of characters from the movie.
Based on a storyline inspired by Build-a-Bear Workshop’s multi-year best-selling plush, the Merry Mission collection, Glisten and the Merry Mission follows a young elfling,...
Enhancing the program is a special promotion at select Build-a-Bear Workshop locations, through which those who purchase a make-your-own furry friend will be offered a free child’s ticket. Also on the docket for Build-a-Bear and Cinemark are special events at select theaters which will feature appearances by the pic’s lead character, Glisten the enchanted snow deer, as well as unique bear-building experiences with plush versions of characters from the movie.
Based on a storyline inspired by Build-a-Bear Workshop’s multi-year best-selling plush, the Merry Mission collection, Glisten and the Merry Mission follows a young elfling,...
- 9/27/2023
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: Freestyle Digital Media has cuddled up to Unstuffed: A Build-a-Bear Story, taking North American rights to the doc from The Last Blockbuster‘s Taylor Morden, which features the voices of talent including Jon Lovitz, Pete Holmes, Jerry Mathers, Larry Hankin and Mike Tyson.
The film, produced in a mixed-media format including animation and storyboarded sequences, will become available on digital platforms and on DVD beginning October 3. View the trailer above.
Directed by Morden from his script, Unstuffed explores the origins of the “teddy bear” as well as the psychological importance of stuffed animals in childhood development. Sprinkled with stories of Build-A-Bear’s lasting and emotional impact on the lives of everyday people and celebrities alike, the doc is told through the eyes of a teddy bear narrator (voiced by Lovitz) as it follows the furry footsteps of a single idea that reimagined not one, but two industries. The...
The film, produced in a mixed-media format including animation and storyboarded sequences, will become available on digital platforms and on DVD beginning October 3. View the trailer above.
Directed by Morden from his script, Unstuffed explores the origins of the “teddy bear” as well as the psychological importance of stuffed animals in childhood development. Sprinkled with stories of Build-A-Bear’s lasting and emotional impact on the lives of everyday people and celebrities alike, the doc is told through the eyes of a teddy bear narrator (voiced by Lovitz) as it follows the furry footsteps of a single idea that reimagined not one, but two industries. The...
- 9/13/2023
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
Guru, the studio behind animated hit Paw Patrol, is teaming with Foundation Media Partners and global cheerleading industry leader Varsity Spirit for a new animated series starring Cheer breakout Morgan Simianer.
The companies are developing Spirits of Ridgeway High, a story about optimist cheerleader Melissa Mayfield, whom Simianer will voice. While on a mission to lead her last-place cheer team to victory, Melissa discovers both cheer and music have secret magical powers. Now, she and her teammates will need to work together to master their powers and keep their school safe.
“I am beyond excited to be a part of this amazing project,” Simianer said in a statement. “As someone who knows firsthand the power of school spirit, I cannot wait for audiences to see the world we have created. This show is going to be a must-watch for anyone who loves animation, cheerleading and magic.”
The former reality star...
The companies are developing Spirits of Ridgeway High, a story about optimist cheerleader Melissa Mayfield, whom Simianer will voice. While on a mission to lead her last-place cheer team to victory, Melissa discovers both cheer and music have secret magical powers. Now, she and her teammates will need to work together to master their powers and keep their school safe.
“I am beyond excited to be a part of this amazing project,” Simianer said in a statement. “As someone who knows firsthand the power of school spirit, I cannot wait for audiences to see the world we have created. This show is going to be a must-watch for anyone who loves animation, cheerleading and magic.”
The former reality star...
- 4/4/2023
- by Abbey White
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Billy Ray Cyrus, Chevy Chase and Freddie Prinze Jr. have boarded the voice cast of animated Christmas movie “Glisten and the Merry Mission.”
Co-produced by Build-a-Bear Entertainment and Foundation Media Partners, the feature also stars Michael Rappaport, Morgan Simianer, Tim Johnson Jr and Reginald VelJohnson.
The film is led by five-time Grammy-nominated and multi-platinum singer-songwriter Julia Michaels, six-time Grammy-winning singer Dionne Warwick and Trinity Jo-Li Bliss (“Avatar: The Way of Water”). The project is the first animated Christmas feature for Build-a-Bear, and is based on the company’s best-selling Holiday plush collection.
“Glisten and the Merry Mission” follows a young elfling Marzipan (voiced by Bliss) and her mother Cinnameg (Michaels) as Marzipan must believe in the magic of the season as she goes on the adventure of a lifetime to rediscover the enchanted snow deer named Glisten and save Christmas. Their mission is aided by a colorful cadre of reindeer and elves,...
Co-produced by Build-a-Bear Entertainment and Foundation Media Partners, the feature also stars Michael Rappaport, Morgan Simianer, Tim Johnson Jr and Reginald VelJohnson.
The film is led by five-time Grammy-nominated and multi-platinum singer-songwriter Julia Michaels, six-time Grammy-winning singer Dionne Warwick and Trinity Jo-Li Bliss (“Avatar: The Way of Water”). The project is the first animated Christmas feature for Build-a-Bear, and is based on the company’s best-selling Holiday plush collection.
“Glisten and the Merry Mission” follows a young elfling Marzipan (voiced by Bliss) and her mother Cinnameg (Michaels) as Marzipan must believe in the magic of the season as she goes on the adventure of a lifetime to rediscover the enchanted snow deer named Glisten and save Christmas. Their mission is aided by a colorful cadre of reindeer and elves,...
- 12/9/2022
- by Manori Ravindran
- Variety Film + TV
Exclusive: Five-time Grammy-nominee Julia Michaels, six-time Grammy-winner Dionne Warwick and Avatar: The Way Of Water actress Trinity Jo-Li Bliss have been cast in the animated Christmas feature Glisten And The Merry Mission.
The project is the first animated Christmas feature for Build-a-Bear Entertainment, whose credits include animated series Curious George and Ashanti starrer Honey Girls. Warwick will contribute songs to the movie.
Pic follows a young elfling Marzipan (voiced by Bliss) and her mother Cinnameg (voiced by Michaels) as Marzipan must believe in the magic of the season as she goes on an adventure to rediscover the enchanted snow deer named Glisten and save Christmas. Their mission is aided by a colorful cadre of reindeer and elves, including the wise Sage Evergreen (voiced by Warwick).
Foundation Media CEO Patrick Hughes (Bad Guys) will produce the film which is based on a story by Build-a-Bear President and CEO Sharon Price John,...
The project is the first animated Christmas feature for Build-a-Bear Entertainment, whose credits include animated series Curious George and Ashanti starrer Honey Girls. Warwick will contribute songs to the movie.
Pic follows a young elfling Marzipan (voiced by Bliss) and her mother Cinnameg (voiced by Michaels) as Marzipan must believe in the magic of the season as she goes on an adventure to rediscover the enchanted snow deer named Glisten and save Christmas. Their mission is aided by a colorful cadre of reindeer and elves, including the wise Sage Evergreen (voiced by Warwick).
Foundation Media CEO Patrick Hughes (Bad Guys) will produce the film which is based on a story by Build-a-Bear President and CEO Sharon Price John,...
- 11/30/2022
- by Andreas Wiseman
- Deadline Film + TV
Click here to read the full article.
Welcome home, Goldilocks.
Reese Witherspoon and Sarah Harden’s production company Hello Sunshine and Build-a-Bear Entertainment are partnering to develop a reimagination of the classic children’s story, Goldilocks and the Three Bears.
The movie — which marks the first feature from Hello Sunshine’s kids and animation division — will be a modern take on the classic tale that leans into the title character as a powerful female protagonist.
Witherspoon and Hello Sunshine’s head of kids and animation, Claire Curley, will executive produce the project alongside Build-A-Bear’s Sharon Price John and Foundation Media Partners’ nm1449018 autoPatrick Hughes.
This is the first partnership between Hello Sunshine and Build-a-Bear, the global family-friendly branded toy and entertainment company that’s a division of Foundation Media.
“Over the last 25 years, Build-a-Bear has created a trusted fanbase rooted in family, personal connection, and storytelling with teddy bears,...
Welcome home, Goldilocks.
Reese Witherspoon and Sarah Harden’s production company Hello Sunshine and Build-a-Bear Entertainment are partnering to develop a reimagination of the classic children’s story, Goldilocks and the Three Bears.
The movie — which marks the first feature from Hello Sunshine’s kids and animation division — will be a modern take on the classic tale that leans into the title character as a powerful female protagonist.
Witherspoon and Hello Sunshine’s head of kids and animation, Claire Curley, will executive produce the project alongside Build-A-Bear’s Sharon Price John and Foundation Media Partners’ nm1449018 autoPatrick Hughes.
This is the first partnership between Hello Sunshine and Build-a-Bear, the global family-friendly branded toy and entertainment company that’s a division of Foundation Media.
“Over the last 25 years, Build-a-Bear has created a trusted fanbase rooted in family, personal connection, and storytelling with teddy bears,...
- 10/5/2022
- by Pamela McClintock
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Exclusive: Foundation Media Partners has secured exclusive book, film and documentary rights to the life story of Terry Watanabe, the notorious gambling addict who made history as Las Vegas’ biggest ever whale, losing over 200 million in a single year after gambling an unprecedented 825 million.
While it’s as yet unclear what exactly will come from the deal, Foundation Media plans to adapt the cautionary tale into a feature film, documentary and/or book, while collaborating with Watanabe himself. It will be the first time the legendary whale speaks out on his experience since settling a lawsuit with an undisclosed casino group in 2010, with no official adaptation of his story having previously been announced.
Watanabe’s downfall is perhaps the most epic and pitiful in Las Vegas gambling history. The Omaha native with a keen eye for marketing and selecting merchandise built his massive fortune after acquiring his father’s humble trade business,...
While it’s as yet unclear what exactly will come from the deal, Foundation Media plans to adapt the cautionary tale into a feature film, documentary and/or book, while collaborating with Watanabe himself. It will be the first time the legendary whale speaks out on his experience since settling a lawsuit with an undisclosed casino group in 2010, with no official adaptation of his story having previously been announced.
Watanabe’s downfall is perhaps the most epic and pitiful in Las Vegas gambling history. The Omaha native with a keen eye for marketing and selecting merchandise built his massive fortune after acquiring his father’s humble trade business,...
- 9/15/2022
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
This April, being Bad never looked so Good.
You are invited to enter to win passes to the advance screening of The Bad Guys
When: Saturday, April 16th at 10:00am
Where: AMC Esquire 7
Wamg is giving away to 5 lucky readers a Family 4-pack of tickets and the winners will receive email notifications on 4/13.
http://gofobo.com/BTNcj31012
Check out the fun activity pack by downloading here: https://www.dreamworks.com/downloads/TheBadGuys_ActivityPack_Complete.pdf
Rated PG
Nobody has ever failed so hard at trying to be good as The Bad Guys.
In the new action comedy from DreamWorks Animation, based on the New York Times best-selling book series, a crackerjack criminal crew of animal outlaws are about to attempt their most challenging con yet—becoming model citizens.
Never have there been five friends as infamous as The Bad Guys—dashing pickpocket Mr. Wolf, seen-it-all safecracker Mr. Snake, chill master-of-disguise Mr.
You are invited to enter to win passes to the advance screening of The Bad Guys
When: Saturday, April 16th at 10:00am
Where: AMC Esquire 7
Wamg is giving away to 5 lucky readers a Family 4-pack of tickets and the winners will receive email notifications on 4/13.
http://gofobo.com/BTNcj31012
Check out the fun activity pack by downloading here: https://www.dreamworks.com/downloads/TheBadGuys_ActivityPack_Complete.pdf
Rated PG
Nobody has ever failed so hard at trying to be good as The Bad Guys.
In the new action comedy from DreamWorks Animation, based on the New York Times best-selling book series, a crackerjack criminal crew of animal outlaws are about to attempt their most challenging con yet—becoming model citizens.
Never have there been five friends as infamous as The Bad Guys—dashing pickpocket Mr. Wolf, seen-it-all safecracker Mr. Snake, chill master-of-disguise Mr.
- 4/7/2022
- by Movie Geeks
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Having chronicled the decline of one influential business with “The Last Blockbuster,” Taylor Morden will instead tell the story of the incredible rise of another in his next feature length documentary.
Morden’s new film will examine Build-a-Bear Workshop, charting its growth from startup fad to decades-old experiential retailer. The film is being made with the company’s cooperation and will coincide with Build-a-Bear’s 25th anniversary. It recently started production at the company’s headquarters in St. Louis.
For the uninitiated or the childless, Build-A-Bear sells teddy bears and other stuffed animals and characters. In a unique spin, customers get to tailor the toys, choosing outfits, accessories and sounds that it wants the stuffed character to make.
Morden’s breakout film “The Last Blockbuster” examines the negative impact the video rental retailer faced during the rise of streaming services. Although the Build-a-Bear documentary will follow the company as...
Morden’s new film will examine Build-a-Bear Workshop, charting its growth from startup fad to decades-old experiential retailer. The film is being made with the company’s cooperation and will coincide with Build-a-Bear’s 25th anniversary. It recently started production at the company’s headquarters in St. Louis.
For the uninitiated or the childless, Build-A-Bear sells teddy bears and other stuffed animals and characters. In a unique spin, customers get to tailor the toys, choosing outfits, accessories and sounds that it wants the stuffed character to make.
Morden’s breakout film “The Last Blockbuster” examines the negative impact the video rental retailer faced during the rise of streaming services. Although the Build-a-Bear documentary will follow the company as...
- 4/6/2022
- by Brent Lang
- Variety Film + TV
Watch the new trailer for The Bad Guys. This April, being Bad never looked so Good!
In the new action comedy from DreamWorks Animation, based on the New York Times best-selling book series, a crackerjack criminal crew of animal outlaws are about to attempt their most challenging con yet—becoming model citizens.
Never have there been five friends as infamous as The Bad Guys—dashing pickpocket Mr. Wolf, seen-it-all safecracker Mr. Snake, chill master-of-disguise Mr. Shark, short-fused “muscle” Mr. Piranha and sharp-tongued expert hacker Ms. Tarantula, aka “Webs.”
But when, after years of countless heists and being the world’s most-wanted villains, the gang is finally caught, Mr. Wolf brokers a deal (that he has no intention of keeping) to save them all from prison: The Bad Guys will go good.
Under the tutelage of their mentor Professor Marmalade, an arrogant (but adorable!) guinea pig, The Bad Guys set out...
In the new action comedy from DreamWorks Animation, based on the New York Times best-selling book series, a crackerjack criminal crew of animal outlaws are about to attempt their most challenging con yet—becoming model citizens.
Never have there been five friends as infamous as The Bad Guys—dashing pickpocket Mr. Wolf, seen-it-all safecracker Mr. Snake, chill master-of-disguise Mr. Shark, short-fused “muscle” Mr. Piranha and sharp-tongued expert hacker Ms. Tarantula, aka “Webs.”
But when, after years of countless heists and being the world’s most-wanted villains, the gang is finally caught, Mr. Wolf brokers a deal (that he has no intention of keeping) to save them all from prison: The Bad Guys will go good.
Under the tutelage of their mentor Professor Marmalade, an arrogant (but adorable!) guinea pig, The Bad Guys set out...
- 2/24/2022
- by Michelle Hannett
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Universal has set new release dates for its anticipated films The Bad Guys and Ticket to Paradise.
The former action comedy from DreamWorks Animation will open wide one week later than expected, on April 22, 2022, opposite Lionsgate’s Nicolas Cage comedy, The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent. The latter feature reuniting Oscar winners George Clooney and Julia Roberts moves back three weeks, opening wide on October 21, 2022, against an untitled feature from Paramount.
The Bad Guys centers on a crew of animal outlaws, comprised of pickpocket Mr. Wolf (Sam Rockwell), safecracker Mr. Snake (Marc Maron), master-of-disguise Mr. Shark (Craig Robinson), short-fused “muscle” Mr. Piranha (Anthony Ramos) and expert hacker Ms. Tarantula (Awkwafina), watching as they attempt their most challenging con yet—becoming model citizens.
Kung Fu Panda animator Pierre Perifel is directing the film—based on Aaron Blabey’s bestselling Scholastic book series—in his feature debut, with Zazie Beetz, Lilly Singh...
The former action comedy from DreamWorks Animation will open wide one week later than expected, on April 22, 2022, opposite Lionsgate’s Nicolas Cage comedy, The Unbearable Weight of Massive Talent. The latter feature reuniting Oscar winners George Clooney and Julia Roberts moves back three weeks, opening wide on October 21, 2022, against an untitled feature from Paramount.
The Bad Guys centers on a crew of animal outlaws, comprised of pickpocket Mr. Wolf (Sam Rockwell), safecracker Mr. Snake (Marc Maron), master-of-disguise Mr. Shark (Craig Robinson), short-fused “muscle” Mr. Piranha (Anthony Ramos) and expert hacker Ms. Tarantula (Awkwafina), watching as they attempt their most challenging con yet—becoming model citizens.
Kung Fu Panda animator Pierre Perifel is directing the film—based on Aaron Blabey’s bestselling Scholastic book series—in his feature debut, with Zazie Beetz, Lilly Singh...
- 10/12/2021
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
DreamWorks Animation has enlisted a star-studded cast for its upcoming cartoon action comedy “The Bad Guys.”
Oscar winner Sam Rockwell, “Crazy Rich Asians” actor Awkwafina, “In the Heights” star Anthony Ramos and Marc Maron of Netflix’s “Glow” will lead the voice cast. Rounding out the call sheet are Craig Robinson (“The Office”), Zazie Beetz, Lilly Singh (“Bad Moms”), Alex Borstein (“The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”) and Richard Ayoade (“Paddington 2”).
“The Bad Guys” follows a crackerjack criminal crew of animal outlaws as they attempt their most challenging con yet — becoming model citizens. It will be released on April 15, 2022, by Universal Pictures.
The film is being adapted from the Scholastic book series by Aaron Blabey and will mark the feature directorial debut of Pierre Perifel. Perifel previously served as an animator on “Kung Fu Panda” and “Shrek Forever After.” Etan Cohen, whose screenwriting credits include “Tropic Thunder” and “Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa...
Oscar winner Sam Rockwell, “Crazy Rich Asians” actor Awkwafina, “In the Heights” star Anthony Ramos and Marc Maron of Netflix’s “Glow” will lead the voice cast. Rounding out the call sheet are Craig Robinson (“The Office”), Zazie Beetz, Lilly Singh (“Bad Moms”), Alex Borstein (“The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel”) and Richard Ayoade (“Paddington 2”).
“The Bad Guys” follows a crackerjack criminal crew of animal outlaws as they attempt their most challenging con yet — becoming model citizens. It will be released on April 15, 2022, by Universal Pictures.
The film is being adapted from the Scholastic book series by Aaron Blabey and will mark the feature directorial debut of Pierre Perifel. Perifel previously served as an animator on “Kung Fu Panda” and “Shrek Forever After.” Etan Cohen, whose screenwriting credits include “Tropic Thunder” and “Madagascar: Escape 2 Africa...
- 7/28/2021
- by Rebecca Rubin
- Variety Film + TV
Universal has reserved two 2022 release dates for its upcoming DreamWorks Animation movies.
The sequel to the 2011 Oscar nominated Puss in Boots, entitled Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, will open on Friday, September 23, 2022. Currently, Puss in Boots 2 is the only wide release on that date, and Universal had the weekend already reserved for an untitled event film.
Puss in Boots: The Last Wish will be directed by Joel Crawford and produced by Mark Swift, the creative team behind Dwa’s 2020 smash The Croods: A New Age, which earned a Golden Globe nomination for Best Picture – Animated and is the third highest-grossing feature during the pandemic with $158 million.
Oscar nominee Antonio Banderas will again voice the suave feline outlaw, as Puss in Boots discovers that his passion for adventure has taken its toll: He has burned through eight of his nine lives, leaving him with only one left. He sets out...
The sequel to the 2011 Oscar nominated Puss in Boots, entitled Puss in Boots: The Last Wish, will open on Friday, September 23, 2022. Currently, Puss in Boots 2 is the only wide release on that date, and Universal had the weekend already reserved for an untitled event film.
Puss in Boots: The Last Wish will be directed by Joel Crawford and produced by Mark Swift, the creative team behind Dwa’s 2020 smash The Croods: A New Age, which earned a Golden Globe nomination for Best Picture – Animated and is the third highest-grossing feature during the pandemic with $158 million.
Oscar nominee Antonio Banderas will again voice the suave feline outlaw, as Puss in Boots discovers that his passion for adventure has taken its toll: He has burned through eight of his nine lives, leaving him with only one left. He sets out...
- 3/17/2021
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Menudo is back. At least, it will be once a new competition series from Mario Lopez finds a new crop of members.
Universal Television announced Wednesday that Lopez is executive producing a new singing competition series currently in the works at the studio which will seek out new members for the popular Latin boy band of the 1970s and ’80s.
“I grew up as a huge fan of Menudo and I’m thrilled to be a part of bringing this iconic band back to the world,” Lopez said in a statement.
Also Read: Ryan Seacrest Kept the Original 'American Idol' Desk For Years - Now He's Finally Using It (Video)
The hourlong, weekly competition series will “search for and rebuild one of the most iconic boy bands of all time,” according to the studio. There is currently no network attached to the project. Lopez will executive produce via his Vir Mar Productions banner,...
Universal Television announced Wednesday that Lopez is executive producing a new singing competition series currently in the works at the studio which will seek out new members for the popular Latin boy band of the 1970s and ’80s.
“I grew up as a huge fan of Menudo and I’m thrilled to be a part of bringing this iconic band back to the world,” Lopez said in a statement.
Also Read: Ryan Seacrest Kept the Original 'American Idol' Desk For Years - Now He's Finally Using It (Video)
The hourlong, weekly competition series will “search for and rebuild one of the most iconic boy bands of all time,” according to the studio. There is currently no network attached to the project. Lopez will executive produce via his Vir Mar Productions banner,...
- 4/29/2020
- by Reid Nakamura
- The Wrap
Menudo, one of the biggest Latin boy bands in history, is making a comeback.
Universal Television Alternative Studio has acquired the rights to Menudo, an hour-long, weekly competition format that will search for and rebuild one of the most iconic boy bands of all time. Access Hollywood co-host Mario Lopez is set to executive produce the project. A network is not yet attached.
Menudo hails from Lopez and his Via Mar Productions, Emmy-winning The Voice producer Audrey Morrissey’s Live Animals, 3 Arts Entertainment and Foundation Management. Universal Television Alternative Studio is the studio.
“I grew up as a huge fan of Menudo and I’m thrilled to be a part of bringing this iconic band back to the world,” said Lopez.
In addition to Lopez, the project will be executive produced by Morrissey and Jayson Belt for Live Animals, 3 Arts’ Mark Schulman and Foundation Management’s Patrick Hughes, Paul Vasquez and Harvey Russell.
Universal Television Alternative Studio has acquired the rights to Menudo, an hour-long, weekly competition format that will search for and rebuild one of the most iconic boy bands of all time. Access Hollywood co-host Mario Lopez is set to executive produce the project. A network is not yet attached.
Menudo hails from Lopez and his Via Mar Productions, Emmy-winning The Voice producer Audrey Morrissey’s Live Animals, 3 Arts Entertainment and Foundation Management. Universal Television Alternative Studio is the studio.
“I grew up as a huge fan of Menudo and I’m thrilled to be a part of bringing this iconic band back to the world,” said Lopez.
In addition to Lopez, the project will be executive produced by Morrissey and Jayson Belt for Live Animals, 3 Arts’ Mark Schulman and Foundation Management’s Patrick Hughes, Paul Vasquez and Harvey Russell.
- 4/29/2020
- by Denise Petski
- Deadline Film + TV
Mario Lopez is looking for the next big Latin boy band.
The “Access Hollywood” host is on board to executive produce “Menudo,” an hour-long competition show in development at Universal Television Alternative Studio. Named after the iconic band, the show will search for and build the next iteration of Menudo.
No network is currently attached to the project and whether or not any of the original band members are involved is as yet unclear.
“I grew up as a huge fan of Menudo and I’m thrilled to be a part of bringing this iconic band back to the world,” said Lopez in a statement.
Formed in 1977 and disbanded in 2009, Menudo made a total of 35 albums which have sold a whopping 60 million copies worldwide. Their success also led to the release of two feature films and a TV series about them, as well as spawning a beauty pageant, dolls, trading cards,...
The “Access Hollywood” host is on board to executive produce “Menudo,” an hour-long competition show in development at Universal Television Alternative Studio. Named after the iconic band, the show will search for and build the next iteration of Menudo.
No network is currently attached to the project and whether or not any of the original band members are involved is as yet unclear.
“I grew up as a huge fan of Menudo and I’m thrilled to be a part of bringing this iconic band back to the world,” said Lopez in a statement.
Formed in 1977 and disbanded in 2009, Menudo made a total of 35 albums which have sold a whopping 60 million copies worldwide. Their success also led to the release of two feature films and a TV series about them, as well as spawning a beauty pageant, dolls, trading cards,...
- 4/29/2020
- by Will Thorne
- Variety Film + TV
DreamWorks Animation has added two more feature toons to its 2021 slate, the Untitled Spirit Riding Free movie based on its Netflix series on May 14, and The Bad Guys on September 17 based on Aaron Blabey’s bestselling Scholastic book series. This raises the Glendale studio’s release count for that year to three titles, the other being The Boss Baby 2 on March 26, 2021. Spooky Jack, previously dated for September 17, 2021, is now unset. The global distribution of Dwa titles is overseen by Universal.
Spirit Riding Free‘s origins go back to the 2002 Oscar-nominated movie Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron ($122.5M global box office). In 2017, that feature was reimagined by DreamWorks Animation Television as a Netflix original series, Spirit Riding Free, thus igniting interest in the IP among a new generation of young girls.
The new pic will follow headstrong Lucky Prescott, who is forced to move from her big-city home to a small frontier town,...
Spirit Riding Free‘s origins go back to the 2002 Oscar-nominated movie Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron ($122.5M global box office). In 2017, that feature was reimagined by DreamWorks Animation Television as a Netflix original series, Spirit Riding Free, thus igniting interest in the IP among a new generation of young girls.
The new pic will follow headstrong Lucky Prescott, who is forced to move from her big-city home to a small frontier town,...
- 10/7/2019
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
DreamWorks Animation and Universal Pictures are in the works on animated films based on the TV series “Spirit Riding Free” and “The Bad Guys” book series, both of which are set to be released in 2021, the studios announced on Monday.
The untitled “Spirit Riding Free” film, based on the Netflix original series from DreamWorks Animation Television, will open wide on May 14, 2021. “The Bad Guys,” based on the 10-book children’s series from author Aaron Blabey, will open on Sept. 17, 2021.
“The Bad Guys” will take the spot of “Spooky Jack,” a collaboration between DreamWorks and Blumhouse, which is now unset.
Also Read: All 36 DreamWorks Animation Movies Ranked From Worst to Best (Photos)
“Spirit Riding Free” follows the unbreakable bond between a free-spirited girl and her wild stallion companion. The show has run for 52 episodes since May 2017, all of which are available on Netflix, and more episodes and content are on the...
The untitled “Spirit Riding Free” film, based on the Netflix original series from DreamWorks Animation Television, will open wide on May 14, 2021. “The Bad Guys,” based on the 10-book children’s series from author Aaron Blabey, will open on Sept. 17, 2021.
“The Bad Guys” will take the spot of “Spooky Jack,” a collaboration between DreamWorks and Blumhouse, which is now unset.
Also Read: All 36 DreamWorks Animation Movies Ranked From Worst to Best (Photos)
“Spirit Riding Free” follows the unbreakable bond between a free-spirited girl and her wild stallion companion. The show has run for 52 episodes since May 2017, all of which are available on Netflix, and more episodes and content are on the...
- 10/7/2019
- by Brian Welk
- The Wrap
Exclusive: Build-a-Bear Workshop is making a big foray into showbiz brand building. While the venerable Missouri-based concern that draws kids to build their own stuffed toys seems a natural to broaden into brand-obsessed TV and film properties as it evolves its retail operation into a more diverse business that includes original digital content, first big step will be in the record business.
Warner Music Group’s Arts Music division and Warner Chappell Music have entered into an exclusive global music partnership with Build-a-Bear Workshop. The label will be called Build-a-Bear Records, which the bear-maker sees as a strong opportunity to better connect consumers with its brand. The Build-a-Bear branded label under Arts Music will release original albums, singles, and playlists—including soundtracks from upcoming films, television shows, and digital shorts—as well as sign and develop artists and their releases. Warner Chappell Music will represent and administer publishing rights for...
Warner Music Group’s Arts Music division and Warner Chappell Music have entered into an exclusive global music partnership with Build-a-Bear Workshop. The label will be called Build-a-Bear Records, which the bear-maker sees as a strong opportunity to better connect consumers with its brand. The Build-a-Bear branded label under Arts Music will release original albums, singles, and playlists—including soundtracks from upcoming films, television shows, and digital shorts—as well as sign and develop artists and their releases. Warner Chappell Music will represent and administer publishing rights for...
- 7/9/2019
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
Exclusive: As the dust settles from a multi-studio bidding battle that played out over two weeks, Netflix has won screen rights to the celebrated Aaron Blabey children’s novel Thelma the Unicorn. Jared and Jarusha Hess, whose work includes Napoleon Dynamite and Nacho Libre, have been set to adapt the book into an animated musical family feature. Jared Hess will direct it.
It’s the second time that a Blabey-authored book has caused a studio stampede, with DreamWorks Animation winning rights to his last one, Bad Guys. Hess last directed Masterminds and episodes of the Will Forte series The Last Man on Earth.
Blabey and Patrick Hughes of Foundation Media Partners will be the executive producers.
When a rare pink and glitter-filled moment of fate makes Thelma the Pony’s wish of being a unicorn come true, she rises to instant international pop-superstar stardom, but at an unexpected cost. The...
It’s the second time that a Blabey-authored book has caused a studio stampede, with DreamWorks Animation winning rights to his last one, Bad Guys. Hess last directed Masterminds and episodes of the Will Forte series The Last Man on Earth.
Blabey and Patrick Hughes of Foundation Media Partners will be the executive producers.
When a rare pink and glitter-filled moment of fate makes Thelma the Pony’s wish of being a unicorn come true, she rises to instant international pop-superstar stardom, but at an unexpected cost. The...
- 6/5/2019
- by Mike Fleming Jr
- Deadline Film + TV
We’re not sure exactly when David Hasselhoff moved into the space celebrity space as William Shatner, but he has now become a meta celebrity as witnessed by his Guardians of the Galaxy music video and now as the subject of the film Killing Hasselhoff, out Tuesday.
Ken Jeong (The Hangover, Ride Along 2) and David Hasselhoff (Baywatch, Guardians of The Galaxy Vol. 2) star in the outrageous comedy, Killing Hasselhoff, available on DVD and Digital on August 29 from Uphe Content Group. Or, you can win a copy of the DVD courtesy of our friends at Uphe. All you need to do is give us an inventive way you would kill David Hasselhoff and explain why he must die. We want your entries no later than 11:59 p.m., Friday, September 1. The contest is open to North American readers only and the decision of ComicMix‘s judges will be final.
Ken Jeong (The Hangover, Ride Along 2) and David Hasselhoff (Baywatch, Guardians of The Galaxy Vol. 2) star in the outrageous comedy, Killing Hasselhoff, available on DVD and Digital on August 29 from Uphe Content Group. Or, you can win a copy of the DVD courtesy of our friends at Uphe. All you need to do is give us an inventive way you would kill David Hasselhoff and explain why he must die. We want your entries no later than 11:59 p.m., Friday, September 1. The contest is open to North American readers only and the decision of ComicMix‘s judges will be final.
- 8/25/2017
- by Robert Greenberger
- Comicmix.com
Universal City, California, July 11, 2017 – Ken Jeong (The Hangover, Ride Along 2) and David Hasselhoff (Baywatch, Guardians of The Galaxy Vol. 2) star in the most hilarious and outrageous come :lol: dy of the year, Killing Hasselhoff, available on DVD and Digital on August 29, 2017 from Uphe Content Group. Co-produced by the team behind 2017’s Baywatch and David Hasselhoff himself, the laugh-out-loud movie is packed with a host of celebrity cameos including comedian Howie Mandel (America’s Got Talent, Deal or No Deal), musician Kid Cudi, and The Hoff’s original Baywatch partner in life-saving crime, Gena Lee Nolin (Baywatch, Sheena). Rounding out the cast is Jon Lovitz (The Ridiculous Six, Grown Ups 2), Rhys Darby (Flight of the Conchords, The Boat That Rocked) and Jim Jefferies (Tainted Love, Legit).
What started out as a regular week quickly turns into the worst few days of his life when Chris (Jeong), a struggling nightclub owner,...
What started out as a regular week quickly turns into the worst few days of his life when Chris (Jeong), a struggling nightclub owner,...
- 7/13/2017
- by ComicMix Staff
- Comicmix.com
David Arquette and Sean Patrick Flanery have joined “Outlander” star Sam Heughan and newcomer Arabella Oz in the indie movie “When the Starlight Ends,” TheWrap has learned. First-time filmmaker Adam Sigal is writing and directing the film, which recently started production in Los Angeles. Patrick Hughes, Bryan O’Connell, Mike Gillespie and Eric Skinner are producing for Intellectual Films (a Primary Wave Company) alongside Christopher Lemole and Armory Films. Also Read: ‘Outlander’ Teases End of #Droughtlander With Homage to Series’ Original Poster (Photos) “Starlight” is a surreal dark comedy that follows a struggling writer (Heughan) who, in a deep depression after losing the love.
- 3/4/2015
- by Jeff Sneider
- The Wrap
Sam Heughan (“Outlander”) is set to star opposite newcomer Arabella Oz in the indie movie “When the Starlight Ends,” which hails from first-time writer-director Adam Sigal, TheWrap has learned.
Patrick Hughes, Bryan O’Connell, Mike Gillespie and Eric Skinner are producing for Intellectual Films (a Primary Wave Company) alongside Christopher Lemole and Armory Films. Production starts next month in Los Angeles.
Also Read: 10 Sundance Breakout Stars Led by Melissa Rauch, Julia Garner and the ‘Knock Knock’ Girls
“Starlight” is a surreal dark comedy that follows a struggling writer who, in a deep depression after losing the love of his life,...
Patrick Hughes, Bryan O’Connell, Mike Gillespie and Eric Skinner are producing for Intellectual Films (a Primary Wave Company) alongside Christopher Lemole and Armory Films. Production starts next month in Los Angeles.
Also Read: 10 Sundance Breakout Stars Led by Melissa Rauch, Julia Garner and the ‘Knock Knock’ Girls
“Starlight” is a surreal dark comedy that follows a struggling writer who, in a deep depression after losing the love of his life,...
- 1/30/2015
- by Jeff Sneider
- The Wrap
Ken Jeong (The Hangover, Community) has signed on to star in a comedy currently known as Untitled Celebrity Death Pool. In it, he will play a nightclub owner who is in debt to a loan shark, so he sets out to win his long-running celebrity death pool by killing his chosen celebrity... David Hasselhoff.
What makes this even more awesome is the fact that Hasselhoff himself is also on board to co-star in the film. He's also producing it with WWE Studios President Michael Luisi and Hyde Park’s Amritraj, Michele Berk, Patrick Hughes, and Warren Zide.
If you didn't think this news could get any better, you are wrong, because Hulk Hogan also signed on for a role! This film seems like it will be full of cameos, but the actors mentioned here are the only ones that have been revealed so far.
The movie will be directed by...
What makes this even more awesome is the fact that Hasselhoff himself is also on board to co-star in the film. He's also producing it with WWE Studios President Michael Luisi and Hyde Park’s Amritraj, Michele Berk, Patrick Hughes, and Warren Zide.
If you didn't think this news could get any better, you are wrong, because Hulk Hogan also signed on for a role! This film seems like it will be full of cameos, but the actors mentioned here are the only ones that have been revealed so far.
The movie will be directed by...
- 8/21/2014
- by Joey Paur
- GeekTyrant
Exclusive: The Hangover‘s Ken Jeong has signed on to star in a comedy currently known as Untitled Celebrity Death Pool, to be co-produced by Ashok Amritraj’s Hyde Park Entertainment, Image Nation Abu Dhabi, and WWE Studios. Jeong will play a struggling nightclub owner in debt to a loan shark who sets out to win his long-running celebrity death pool by offing his chosen celebrity: David Hasselhoff.
The Hoff himself is aboard to co-star and also will produce with WWE Studios President Michael Luisi, Hyde Park’s Amritraj, Michele Berk, Patrick Hughes and Warren Zide. Wrestling icon Hulk Hogan also has signed on for a role. Diary Of A Mad Black Woman helmer Darren Grant is directing from a spec script by Peter Hoare. It’s the latest collaboration between WWE Studios and Hyde Park, which pacted last year on the Dwayne Johnson film adaptation of The Fall Guy,...
The Hoff himself is aboard to co-star and also will produce with WWE Studios President Michael Luisi, Hyde Park’s Amritraj, Michele Berk, Patrick Hughes and Warren Zide. Wrestling icon Hulk Hogan also has signed on for a role. Diary Of A Mad Black Woman helmer Darren Grant is directing from a spec script by Peter Hoare. It’s the latest collaboration between WWE Studios and Hyde Park, which pacted last year on the Dwayne Johnson film adaptation of The Fall Guy,...
- 8/20/2014
- by Jen Yamato
- Deadline
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