4Kids Ent.’s new animated series Dinosaur King will be leaving a bigger footprint with pickups by several leading broadcasters in and Europe. Licensing agreements for the show have been inked with Mediaset in Italy, RTL2 in Germany, France 3 and Canal J in France, and Jetix in the U.K., Scandinavia and Spain. The toon is slated to debut on those outlets during the 2008-2009 season.
Dinosaur King blends traditional 2D animation with CG to chronicle the adventures of Max, Rex and Zoe (a.k.a. the ‘D Team’) as they race around the world to uncover secrets that bring dinosaurs back to life. They are able to transport themselves anywhere in the world in their quest to find all the dinosaur cards that have been lost by the time-traveling Dr. Z and his bumbling team of bad guys. The series debuted in the U.S. in September and airs during the 4Kids TV Saturday-morning block.
‘Dinosaur King was arguably the hottest kids’ animated series at MIPCOM Jr.,’ boasts Brian Lacey, exec VP of International at 4Kids Ent. ‘This early group of powerful kids’ broadcaster commitments in Europe reflects the popularity and confidence in the series. Its compelling storylines combine genuine adventure with humor and heart, the elements common to all bona fide successful international children’s programs.’
Lacey anticipates another round of major market deal closings in such territories as Australia, Latin America and Canada before the NATPE market kicks off later this month.
