Asmodee Group launches a new division devoted to developing content based on its owned IP, primarily through strategic partnerships and licensing. Asmodee Entertainment will be the launching ground for new films, TV series, and comics and graphic novels. Already in development is a film based on the board game Catan, which is being adapted by Sony Pictures.
DC Entertainment signs an exclusive five-project deal, including at least two original book projects, with Frank Miller. The deal is part of broader efforts to beef up DC’s trade efforts with renowned comics authors that also have consumer appeal in the book trade, as well as publishing content in more formats.
Number 6 Enterprises will operate DC Boutiques, new DC-branded retail activations, at over 18 regional comic conventions in the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. this year to reach nearly 1.2 million fans. The boutiques will offer rare variants and licensed merchandise, host signings, and feature contests and giveaways.
Snap partners with StudioMDHR’s Cuphead (represented by King Features), Allegorithmic, and Klei Entertainment’s Don’t Starve to showcase its new AR technology. Amongst other things, the partnership has resulted in a new 2D Cupped lens where users can jump into the classic run-and-gun action game alongside its 1930s cartoon-inspired characters.
Theme Parks
Six Flags Entertainment, Riverside Investment Group, and Turner Asia Pacific partner to bring original, branded experiences to Six Flags parks throughout China. The first additions are new Tuzki-branded rides at Six Flags Zhejiang and Six Flags Chongqing, scheduled to open in 2019 and 2020, respectively. In addition to the new ride, both parks will also feature Tuzki theming and new retail locations offering branded merchandise. Turner-owned Tuzki is a rabbit emoticon who also has his own themed restaurant and café in addition to being the star of an animated series and an upcoming theatrical movie.
The agreement between Turner and Riverside Investment Group also allows for other Cartoon Network IP to be featured inside Six Flags Kids World—the first park of its kind and designed especially for families with young children—which will be built adjacent to both Six Flags Zhejiang and Six Flags Chongqing.
Disney is expanding the presence of Marvel superhero properties at its parks, including Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, Disneyland Paris, and Hong Kong Disneyland. In California, it’s anticipated that Spider-Man and the Avengers characters will take over space previously occupied by a now-closed land inspired by the Pixar property A Bug’s Life. France will see an Iron Man and The Avengers ride in 2020, while an Ant-Man and The Wasp attraction is headed to Hong Kong.