The latest CG-animated, direct-to-video feature in Mattel’s hit Barbie franchise is tracking as the best-selling kids video of the holiday season, according to Nielsen Video Scan. The stocking stuffer, Barbie as the Princess and the Pauper, is the fourth release and the first musical in the series.
Animated by Canada’s Mainframe, Barbie as the Princess and the Pauper employs motion-capture technology to put a modern twist on the classic story as it teaches girls about hope, self-discovery and the strength of love. Barbie plays dual roles as the fair-haired Princess Anneliese and the raven-haired Erika. Each yearning for a different life, they find friendship and adventure when their paths cross. The film was released in the U.S. in late September by Lions Gate’s Family Home Entertainment (FHE) and was distributed on home video in the U.K. by Entertainment Rights Plc., which also retains international television rights, excluding the U.S.
The success of the Barbie movies has inspired Mattel to produce and distribute direct-to-video, animated titles based on other popular toy brands such as Hot Wheels and G.I. Joe. In addition, competitors Hasbro and Fisher-Price have followed suit with videos based on such product lines as Tonka and Rescue Heroes, respectively.
Also on shelves for the holiday season are new Barbie dolls based on the video feature. Princess Anneliese and Erika figures feature technology that allows them to sing songs from the movie individually and in harmony for a duet of one of the key numbers.
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