| PORCHLIGHT ENTERS THE RING WITH LOS CAMPEONES DE LA LUCHA LIBRE |
March 2 2010
PORCHLIGHT ENTERS THE RING WITH
LOS CAMPEONES DE LA LUCHA LIBRE
PorchLight Acquires Rights to Mexican Wrestling Themed Feature and Prepares To Take It to the Mat at MIPTV
Los Angeles, CA—March 1, 2010—PorchLight Entertainment has acquired the worldwide distribution rights to the animated feature Los Campeones de la Lucha Libre (“The Champions of Lucha Libre”). The Mexican wrestling themed movie, which was produced by Fwak! Animation and BounceyNet, Inc., was previously released theatrically in Mexico.
Targeting tweens and teens, the 72-minute movie, available in English and Spanish, will be introduced at MIPTV with PorchLight marketing theatrical, broadcast and home entertainment rights globally.
“With beautiful, stylized animation, Los Campeones de la Lucha Libre brings the electrifying world of Lucha Libre to life,” said Shea Fontana, VP Children’s Programming. “Hard core fans of Lucha Libre will appreciate authentic wrestling scenes, while newcomers get an exciting glimpse into this world of masks, moves and matches between good and evil.”
In Los Campeones de la Lucha Libre, a mysterious stranger leaves his isolated Mexican village to seek help from an impending attack by an equally mysterious horde. He finds a gifted young Mexican wrestler – or luchador – Dragon Rojo Jr., who sees a chance to live up to the legacy of his famous father. Inspired by the golden age of Lucha Libre, he gathers a team of his own — Mr. Profesional (′The Muscle′), Rayo X (′The Ace′), Tsetse Fly (′The Brawler′), and Sorpesa (′The Surprise′). But as they learn to work together, a surprise lies in store — the village they have been asked to defend is not exactly what it seems. The late Lux Interior, a founding member of the legendary garage punk band The Cramps, lent his voiceover talents to the movie.
Los Campeones de la Lucha Libre was created by Eddie Mort and Lili Chin who previously brought Lucha Libre to mainstream consciousness with their hit cartoon TV series ¡Mucha Lucha! (2001-2003), produced by Warner Bros Animation.
“This film fits perfectly with our on-going strategy of acquiring quality films and televisions series that match the programming needs of broadcasters throughout the world,” said PorchLight CEO Bruce Johnson. “We’re excited to bring this excellent animated action adventure movie to MIPTV this spring.”
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executive Bruce D. Johnson, PorchLight has produced more than 30 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS, Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company co-produced Animalia for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
About FWAK! Animation
Eddie Mort and Lili Chin are two animation artists who have been collaborating since the late 90′s and are best known as the creators, producers and designers of the Warner Bros′ animated hit 52-episode children′s TV series ′¡Mucha Lucha!′ which was syndicated by Cartoon Network. Eddie Mort and Lili Chin are also the directors of their own independent animation company, Fwak! Animation which launched in Sydney, Australia (2000) and moved to Los Angeles in 2002. Fwak! Animation specializes in creating and developing a diverse range of original projects with a strong focus on character design where previous clients in addition to Warner Bros Animation, have included Nickelodeon, Locomotion.com, Cartoon Network Asia-Pacific, Sony BMG, and Film Roman/Starz.
# # #
For more information contact:
Georgia Scott Shea Fontana, VP, Children’s Programming
Global Strategies, Ink PorchLight Entertainment
(818) 432-1434 (310) 477-8400 ext. 242
georgia@theagency.tv sfontana@porchlight.com
|
| Rising Star Education releases Adventures From the Book of Virtues - School Edition |
February 22 2010
Edina, MN - February 4, 2010 - Rising Star Education, home of the five-time Emmy Award-winning series Auto-B-Good, is excited to announce its partnership with Porchlight Entertainment to release Adventures From the Book of Virtues - School Edition. Available as of February 1, the collection is comprised of 13 new DVDs that each focus on a specific character trait. Each DVD features an overarching story and two or three related moral tales, with a run time of approximately 25 minutes. Adventures From the Book of Virtues - School Edition is a brand-new version created especially for use in school curricula. Lessons are taught through the experiences of Zach and Annie as they navigate difficult situations with the help of Plato the buffalo and his pals. These are entertaining stories with memorable characters, perfect for grades 3 to 6. Every DVD has English and Spanish language options and includes a teacher’s guide in PDF format. Rising Star Education is proud to add this award-winning program to its character development resources. For a product list, pricing, teacher’s guide and video samples, visit www.risingstareducation.com. About Adventures From the Book of Virtues
Adventures From the Book of Virtues is an animated series based on William Bennett’s New York Times bestseller The Book of Virtues. Originally broadcast on PBS KIDS, the series has received the Angel Award from Excellence in Media, an endorsement from Viewers for Quality Television, and a Best Bet from TV Guide. Adventures From the Book of Virtues is produced by Porchlight Entertainment. About Rising Star Education
Rising Star Education is focused on creating and distributing the highest quality of audio, video, and print media resources that are fun, safe, classroom proven, and entertaining. Through our product lines we encourage children to build excellence in character, relationships, academics and making wise choices. Using creative storytelling, award winning animation, and kid-friendly support resources we will provide the highest quality of media available to educators and the children they serve.
|
| PORCHLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT UNCOVERS AGENT A TO AGENT Z |
February 17 2010
PORCHLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT UNCOVERS AGENT A TO AGENT Z
Award-Winning Producer And Distributor To Develop New Flash Animated
Comedy Spy Series Targeting Kids 6 to 11
February 4, 2010 – Los Angeles, CA -- PorchLight Entertainment, globally recognized for its dedication to children’s programming, is developing the series Agent A to Agent Z created by Andy Rash and Dan Yaccarino and based upon Rash’s children’s book of the same name. The series, delivering a wacky comedy of errors, will be produced in Flash Animation and target kids 6-11. Initial production will include 52 11-minute episodes.
“We are pleased to add Agent A to Agent Z to our development slate,” said Shea Fontana, PorchLight’s Vice President, Children’s Programming. “Inspired by the classics of the ‘60s, Dan Yaccarino and Andy Rash have created a unique twist on the spy genre. Agent A to Agent Z takes the vintage, graphic art style of Andy’s book and adds modern characters and humor.”
Agent A to Agent Z follows the misadventures of a father-son spy duo whose work on top-secret missions more closely resembles Pink Panther than James Bond. Thirteen year-old Aaron finds his life turned upside down when he discovers his goofball dad really is a secret agent. With security breached, there was only one thing to do with Aaron: recruit him. Now with the alias of Agent A, he’s learning the ropes of espionage, while trying to maintain his former life of chemistry homework, soccer games, and (gulp) school dances.
"Agent A to Agent Z is the kind of show I would′ve loved to have watched as a 12-year old. Aw, heck. I′d love to watch it now!" said Dan Yaccarino, series co-creator. Yaccarino is a renowned children’s book author, illustrator and animation series creator whose work include creating such hits as Oswald and Willa’s Wild Life, character design for The Backyardigans, and writing numerous children’s book which have sold over 1.5mil copies.
"I knew sooner or later I would put my grappling-hook knowledge to good use!" said Andy Rash, author of Agent A to Agent Z and series co-creator. Rash’s other work includes Superhero School, Are You A Horse? and The Robots are Coming.
The Agent A to Agent Z book is published by Arthur A. Levine Books, an imprint of Scholastic Press.
PorchLight Agent A to Agent Z
2-2-2-2
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executive Bruce D. Johnson, PorchLight has produced more than 30 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS, Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company co-produced Animalia for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
# # #
For more information contact:
Georgia Scott Shea Fontana, VP, Children’s Programming
Global Strategies, Ink PorchLight Entertainment
(818) 432-1434 (310) 477-8400 ext. 242
georgia@theagency.tv sfontana@porchlight.com
|
| PORCHLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT ANNOUNCES NEW DEAL WITH E1 ENTERTAINMENT |
August 17 2009
PORCHLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT ANNOUNCES NEW DEAL WITH E1 ENTERTAINMENT
COMPANY NAMES HERB DORFMAN GENERAL MANAGER, HOME ENTERTAIMENT
( Los Angeles, CA) – Porchlight Entertainment, one of the world’s leading independent suppliers of high quality family entertainment to audiences throughout the world, announces a new deal with E1 Entertainment, A specialist in children’s and family programming, PorchLight has produced nearly 400 episodes of high quality animation and over 40 live action movies, earning a reputation as one of "the most trusted names in family entertainment."
Under this new deal, E1 Entertainment will distribute PorchLight’s upcoming video releases for the label. PorchLight will release video titles, “A Martian Christmas” and “Jay Jay The Jet Plane: Jay Jay’s Christmas Surprise” in December 2009.
PorchLight President & CEO Bruce D, Johnson comments, “Our label is a great fit with E1, and we look forward to bringing a continuous stream of high quality children’s and family programs to retail venues.”
E1 Entertainment Distribution President Michael Rosenberg adds, “PorchLight is a leader in children’s and family programming, and we look forward to working with the company to release quality entertainment for the whole family.”
PorchLight also announces that veteran entertainment executive Herb Dorfman joins the company as General Manager, Home Entertainment. “Herb brings vast experience in dealing with the retail buyers and the E1 distribution team,” said Don Mirisch, PorchLight’s Senior Vice President. “We are pleased to be working with Herb and look forward to great success.”
In addition to the new releases, E1 will be servicing PorchLight’s catalog of movies and children’s programs including such programs as Adventures FromThe Book of Virtues, LeapFrog’s Tad of Christmas Cheer, and 64 Zoo Lane.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1994 by Bruce D. Johnson, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,500 episodes of children’s programs. PorchLight has also produced more than 50 live-action and animated movies, and nearly five hundred episodes of animation including such series as Tutenstein (a multiple Emmy winner) for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Animalia for the BBC, PBS and CBC (co-produced with Animalia Prods.), Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. PorchLight is currently producing The Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
About E1 Entertainment
E1 Entertainment (AIM: ETO) is a leading independent entertainment content owner that acquires film, television and music rights and exploits these rights in all media in more than 190 countries.
The company currently operates in Canada, the U.S., the UK, Holland and Belgium through its four primary businesses units: E1 Television, E1 Films, E1 Music and E1 Distribution. These businesses collectively represent E1’s extensive expertise in film distribution, television and music production/distribution, Kids content, Licensing and Distribution.
E1’s content library includes more than 3,700 feature films, 2,700 hours of original television programming and 15,000 music tracks.
For More Information Contact:
Gina Lipari at 310-477-8400
glipari@porchlight.com
|
| PorchLight Lights Up MyFamilyTV with KidMangoTV |
June 1 2009
(Los Angeles, CA XX)—PorchLight Entertainment and ValCom, Inc. (OTC
BB:VLCO.OB - News) (Frankfurt:VAM.F - News), through its subsidiary division
MyFamilyTV, announced today the launch of KidMangoTV, a syndicated children’s television programming block.
Premiering June 1, the KidMangoTV block will soon be carried in over 30 million homes through the MyFamilyTV network. KidMangoTV will launch with a four hour daytime block Monday through Friday of high quality children’s programming, and will expand to a primetime programming block and an E/I compliant Saturday programming block in the coming months.
“We are excited to be part of MyFamilyTV,” said Bruce Johnson, PorchLight’s President
and CEO. “KidMango will offer high quality, empowering programming with a positive
slant. MyFamily TV and PorchLight share the goal of bringing exceptional programming to American families.”
“From the beginning, we viewed children’s programming as an important component of MyFamilyTV,” said C.A. Powers, MyFamilyTV’s President. “We could not be more pleased to be lanching KidMango and providing a block of quality programs for our affiliates.”
KidMangoTV will feature award-winning children’s programming created and acquired by PorchLight such as Jay Jay the Jet Plane, Four Eyes, The Secret World of Benjamin Bear and My Goldfish is Evil. A specialist in children’s and family programming, PorchLght has produced nearly 400 episodes of high quality animation, over 40 live action movies, and has a library of over 1500 episodes of children’s programming. KidMangoTV will also feature third party produced shows acquired by PorchLight for KidMangoTV.
“We are thrilled to be launching KidMangoTV with such a strong slate of programming,” said Shea Fontana, VP of Children’s Programming at PorchLight. “Our schedule includes multiple Emmy award winning shows and kid-tested classic brands. Plus, we’ll be introducing kids to great shows never before seen in the US. And, kids are able to immediately connect to more content at the companion site, KidMango.com.”
The programming block will be accompanied by KidMango.com, an interactive website that will feature over 1500 hours of safe, family-friendly content of animation, games,
comics, music and movies targeting kids 3-10 years old. KidMango.com gives kids access to the largest online library of independently produced kid’s content from around the world and will include materials from shows featured on KidMangoTV plus a huge collection of other programs such as WordGirl, Pocoyo, and Doodlez. KidMango.com is launching in conjunction with KidMangoTV.
About PorchLight Entertainment. Founded in 1994 as a production company by Bruce
Johnson, PorchLight has expanded into several related businesses including
Worldwide Program Distribution, DVD Distribution, Licensing &
Merchandising, Digital Media and Educational Media. A frequent co-producer,
PorchLight values creativity, collaboration, and high quality filmed entertainment,
working closely with a large number of producers, artists, writers and creative talent from
around the world. The Company also acquires numerous films and series from
independent producers. PorchLight′s distribution library consists of more than 1,500
episodes and 200 movies. For more information please visit www.porchlight.com.
About Valcom, Inc. Based in Clearwater, FL., ValCom, Inc. is a diversified, fully
integrated, independent entertainment company that has been in operation since 1983.
ValCom, Inc., through its operating divisions and subsidiaries, creates and operates full
service facilities that accommodate film, television and commercial productions with its
four divisions comprised of studio and rental, television and film, broadcasting, and live
theater. ValCom, Inc. has participated in over 100 films, Broadway shows and thousands
of episodes of television. ValCom′s client list consists of all of the majors such as MGM,
Paramount Pictures, Warner Bros, Disney, CBS, Sony, NBC, Phantom of the Opera,
HSN, and more. Visit us at www.valcom.tv
For more information, please contact:
Shea Fontana
Children’s Programming
PorchLight Entertainment
Sfontana@porchlight.com
|
| PorchLight Turns Up the Wattage for Cannes 2009 |
May 14 2009
CANNES, May 14, 2009: PorchLight Entertainment has come into Cannes 2009 with a
major new slate of high quality theatrical titles that expands and enhances the company’s
respected library of family entertainment. Ken DuBow, President of Worldwide
Distribution and Bruce Johnson, PorchLight’s CEO, were instrumental in acquiring the
new titles.
“This is the best slate of films PorchLight has ever brought to Cannes,” said Johnson.
“Acquiring movies of this caliber is a tribute to PorchLight’s superb and far-reaching
capabilities as a distributor.”
DuBow leads the international film sales team of Jeffrey Engelen and J.D. Beaufils, who
are attending the market. “We are very enthusiastic about each of these titles and look
forward to presenting them to the world’s film buyers,” added DuBow. PorchLight will
be headquartered in the Riviera, Lerins R8.
The newly acquired titles include:
BROKEN HILL. A music-inspired teen romance from Audience Alliance and producer
Chris Wyatt (NAPOLEON DYNAMITE), the film stars Alexa Vega (SPY KIDS) and
Oscar winner TIMOTHY HUTTON and introduces young Australian heartthrob Luke
Arnold. Visual EFX are by Rising Sun (HARRY POTTER, X-MEN ORIGINS:
WOLVERINE, BLOOD DIAMOND). US theatrical release via Mac Releasing set for
September 2009, with DVD release by Image (in negotiations) scheduled for early 2010.
BROKEN HILL will be screening in Cannes on May 19th at 9:30 AM at the Palais J
theater.
PASSCHENDAELE . This sweeping World War I epic and love story won six 2009
Genie Awards including Best Picture. Directed by and starring Paul Gross, the film was
the Opening Night film at the Toronto Film Festival 2008 and received a major 2009
theatrical release in Canada. Produced by Rhombus Productions, the film will receive an
international launch at the 2009 Cannes Film Festival. PASSCHENDAELE will be
screening in Cannes on May 18th at 8:30 PM at the Palais C Theater.
HALO. This film is an inspirational teen comedy inspired by actual events. From
Peabody and Emmy Award winning producer Colin Neale (THE BOYS OF ST.
VINCENT, MARGARET’S MUSEUM) and Bev Bliss (THE GEOMETRY OF LOVE,
Platinum and Gold Winner, Houston WorldFest), HALO will be completed by Fall 2009.
THE LAST DRAGON. An action adventure story starring Sam Neill (JURASSIC
PARK III), about the discovery of a mythical dragon from an ancient Chinese civilization
and how it becomes the catalyst for a boy and his father to heal their relationship. The
film is available in early 2010.
THE ONLY GOOD INDIAN. A new Western action film, from writer/director Kevin
Wilmott (CSA: CONFEDERATE STATES OF AMERICA), and starring Wes Studi
(DANCES WITH WOLVES) and J. Kenneth Campbel ,the film is going out in a US
2009 US DVD release through Image.
FOR SALE BY OWNER. Kris Kristofferson and Rachel Nichols (upcoming G.I. JOE)
star in a thriller about one man′s journey to into his past, a journey that leads to
discovering the secret of one of America′s most haunting mysteries. 2009 US DVD
release through Monarch.
PorchLight will also be showing new footage from HALO and THE LAST DRAGON,
both of which are currently in production, in their Cannes office.
About PorchLight Entertainment
PorchLight Entertainment is focused on the production and distribution of high-quality
family entertainment. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executive
Bruce D. Johnson, PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action movies that have
been distributed widely throughout the world. PorchLight has also produced a number of
major animated series including the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein,
for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS. The company is
currently producing The Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network. For more information,
visit www.porchlight.com.
|
| PORCHLIGHT ADDS NEW BOARD MEMBER |
April 13 2009
PORCHLIGHT ADDS NEW BOARD MEMBER
(LOS ANGELES)—Rick Eldridge has joined PorchLight Entertainment’s Board of Directors, it was announced today by PorchLight’s CEO, Bruce Johnson.
“With over 30 years in the entertainment business as a musician, producer, director and entrepreneur, Rick knows how to make projects happen,” said Johnson. “PorchLight is moving in new directions and Rick gives us access to new people, places and ideas that can aid in our expansion.”
“I’m very pleased to be joining PorchLight’s Board of Directors,” said Eldridge. “I have worked with PorchLight in the past on the distribution of several of my films and we have similar visions and goals. PorchLight is known as a destination for family and value driven entertainment and I look forward to helping the company as it pursues this strategy.”
Currently Eldridge is President/CEO of The Film Foundry, a multifaceted film/video post-production company that works on weekly television series, specials, and film projects for networks including CBS, A&E, HGTV, PBS and The Speed Channel. Eldridge has headed up the creative vision and production of The Ultimate Gift, Bobby Jones: Stroke of Genius, and Running the Sahara, a Matt Damon narrated documentary about the adventure of three marathon runners who ran across the Sahara desert to bring attention to the water crisis in Africa. Under the banner of GlueWorks Entertainment, an animation company prized with numerous awards of excellence, Eldridge has produced Hermie & Friends, Gigi, The Pond and On the Farm.
Eldridge is actively involved as a member of many educational and civic boards including Executive Officer of the Board of Trustees for Brevard College, Compass Film Academy Board of Directors, Heartland Film Festival Board of Directors, Queen University Advisory Board and the Damah Film Festival Board. He has also been awarded the International Who′s Who of Entrepreneurs.
PorchLight has recently announced new additions to its executive staff, as well as the launch of its new digital platform KidMango, which is available online at KidMango.com, and will launch as a branded block on the MyFamilyTV network later this year.
About PorchLight Entertainment
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executive Bruce D. Johnson, PorchLight has produced more than 30 live-action and animated movies and a number of major animated series including the Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS, Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company co-produced Animalia for the BBC, PBS, CBC, and Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; and is currently producing The Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
|
| New PorchLight Executives |
April 6 2009
PORCHLIGHT NAMES COURTNEY COLMAN
CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER
Industry Veteran Don Mirisch Joins PorchLight Team As Senior Vice President
Los Angeles – April 6, 2009 -- PorchLight Entertainment, global producer and distributor of award-winning family entertainment, has appointed Courtney Colman to the company post of CFO and Don Mirisch as Senior Vice President, it was announced today by Bruce D. Johnson, President & CEO of PorchLight.
“We are very pleased to add Courtney and Don to our team,” said Bruce Johnson, “Both have immense industry experience and bring vast knowledge and skills to PorchLight. We look forward to their contributions to our strategic growth plan for 2009 and beyond.”
As the Chief Financial Officer Colman will be responsible for overseeing PorchLight’s Finance, Accounting, Human Resources and IT departments. Prior to joining PorchLight, Colman was Executive Vice President of Finance at First Look Studios, where she oversaw the finance, accounting and participation departments. Before First Look Studios, Colman held the position of Chief Financial Officer of Lieberman Research Worldwide, a market research company specializing in the entertainment sector.
Colman’s extensive experience in the entertainment industry includes serving s Vice President of Participations at Sony Pictures Entertainment; Vice President at Universal Music’s Interscope label; Vice President of Film Finance at PolyGram Filmed Entertainment, and Senior Vice President at Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Really Useful Group. Her tenure at PolyGram Filmed Entertainment extended over six years in throughout Canada, the US, and the UK.
Colman received her Bachelor of Commerce at the University of Toronto, and is a Chartered Accountant (CA) in Canada and the UK.
“I’m excited to join PorchLight,” said Colman. “The company is growing rapidly and being a part of the team gives me the opportunity to help guide the financial side of the company, from production through its distribution capabilities on a global scale.”
Relative to today’s announcement, Don Mirisch, having over twenty-five years of entertainment industry experience, joins PorchLight as Senior Vice President, where he will oversee the company’s business and legal affairs.
Most recently, Mirisch founded and served as Executive Vice President and General Manager of MGM Animation, which produced and distributed theatrical and direct-to-video features and television series notably including “All Dogs Go to Heaven 2”, “The Pebble and the Penguin”, “The Pink Panther” and “Babes in Toyland”.
Previously, he was Senior Vice President of MGM’s Entertainment Business Group, with responsibility for corporate business affairs, including feature and television production, acquisition and distribution, music, merchandising and licensing.
Earlier, Mirisch headed business affairs for such companies as Hanna-Barbera, Embassy Home Entertainment and PolyGram Pictures. His varied career includes stints at Twentieth-Century Fox and Universal.
He is a cum laude, Phi Beta Kappa graduate of Brandeis University, a cum laude graduate of the Harvard Law School, and a member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences and the State Bar of California.
.
About PorchLight Entertainment
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executive Bruce D. Johnson, PorchLight has produced more than 30 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS, Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company co-produced Animalia for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Contact:
Georgia Scott Bruce Johnson
Global Strategies, Ink PorchLight Entertainment
(818) 432-1434 (310) 477-8400
georgia@theagency.tv bjohnson@porchlight.com
|
| CCTV Animation and PorchLight Entertainment Partner on Snap! Let’s Go! |
March 28 2009
CCTV Animation and PorchLight Entertainment Partner on Snap! Let’s Go!
CCTV Animation and PorchLight Entertainment Form Historic Partnership on New Preschool Series
(Beijing / Los Angeles - March 28, 2009) The Chinese animation production powerhouse CCTV Animation and PorchLight Entertainment have entered a co-development agreement to develop and produce the 52 X 12 minutes preschool series Snap! Let’s Go! This agreement marks the first collaboration on the development of a long format TV animation series between CCTV Animation and a North American production company.
“We take the co-development with PorchLight as a very important step for our international collaboration strategy,” The GM of CCTV Animation Wang Ying said, “Both PorchLight and CCTV Animation have successful credits of creativities and experiences in producing animation and programming in their respective cultural territories. The collaboration is a meaningful start for enhancing more international projects for both companies.”
“We are very pleased to be announcing our partnership with CCTV Animation,” said Bruce Johnson, President & CEO of PorchLight. “CCTV has the largest children’s audience of any broadcaster worldwide and has shown exceptional quality in their animated programming. They bring enormous expertise and experience to this historic collaboration. With international interest in China roused during the Summer Olympics, the timing is perfect for this type of show.”
Snap! Let’s Go! follows the adventures of a Chinese girl named Mandy (Wang), a western boy named Matt (Johnson), their life-sized Panda bear mentor, and a mischievous, surprise-loving dragon named Snap as they explore new locations and learn about each others’ culture. Intertwined with the adventures, the series will teach Chinese viewers English phrases and all other worldwide viewers the same phrase in Mandarin Chinese. In each episode, the kids, Pandy and Snap will travel to a preschool friendly location like a fire station, library, or zoo, where they will join in the fun of each new place they visit. If appropriate, they will visit the same type of place in both China and the western world, out of which will arise enriching experiences of a new culture.
“Snap! Let’s Go! shows preschoolers that although we may come from different places across the world, we have so much in common,” said Shea Fontana, Vice President of Children’s Programming at PorchLight. “But this program celebrates the differences, like the food we eat, the games we play, and the words we use. But no matter how we say ‘This is fun!’ the feeling is the same across the globe.”
Snap! Let’s Go! is based on the Mandy & Pandy book series created by Chris Lin and illustrated by Ingrid Villalta. The Mandy & Pandy book series introduces preschool and elementary age students to Chinese words and phrases with pictures books that include an accompanying CD which reads the story in both English and Chinese.
About CCTV Animation
CCTV Animation Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of CCTV (China Central Television). CCTV is Chinese state TV broadcaster and the largest network, which reaches over 1 billion viewers in China and 100 million overseas families. CCTV Animation has more than 700 hours of high-quality animation series (permanent IP rights) with a steady increasing of over 5000 minutes annually, which are created and produced by first-class creative talent of the country and state-of-the-art equipment. It has the most award-winning animation series in China, such as Journey to the West, The Legend of Nezha, The Adventures of Little Carp, Young Detective Di Renjie, New Fables and so on so forth, which are blockbusters with extensive merchandising market as well. CCTV Animation’s core business includes original animation production, distribution, merchandising, licensing and cooperation in new media. Its main broadcasting platform is CCTV Children’s Channel, which covers over 96% of mainland China, and is in the top eight of satellite television channel share. For more information, visit http://ysdh.cctv.com.
About PorchLight Entertainment
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executive Bruce D. Johnson, PorchLight has produced more than 30 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS, Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company co-produced Animalia for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Contact:
Junfei Zhan Shea Fontana
CCTV Animation PorchLight Entertainment
(8610)51862713 310.477.8400
junfeizhan@yahoo.com.cn sfontana@porchlight.com
|
| PORCHLIGHT PROMOTES SHEA FONTANA TO VP, CHILDREN’S PROGRAMMING |
March 18 2009
PORCHLIGHT PROMOTES SHEA FONTANA TO VP, CHILDREN’S PROGRAMMING
(LOS ANGELES—March 2009)— Shea Fontana has been upped to Vice President, Children’s Programming, it was announced today by Bruce Johnson, company President & CEO. In this new position, her responsibilities will expand to include the development, production and acquisition of all genres children’s programming for PorchLight Entertainment.
“Shea has been working on most of the animation projects that have come through PorchLight over the past 3 years, including production, development and domestic sales,” said Johnson. “She has made a great contribution to our team and I look forward to working with her as she expands her areas of responsibility.”
Ms. Fontana joined PorchLight in 2006. She quickly moved into the animation production process and has been deeply involved in the production and development of PorchLight’s slate of animated programming. She has been involved with production of THE SECRET SATURDAYS (Cartoon Network), ANIMALIA (BBC), TUTENTSTEIN (Discovery Kids) and LeapFrog’s A TAD OF CHRISTMAS CHEER (PorchLight Home Entertainment). Most recently, as Manager, Children’s Programming, she has been overseeing the development of PorchLight’s preschool and tween series.
About PorchLight Entertainment
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executive Bruce D. Johnson, PorchLight has produced more than 30 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS, Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company co-produced Animalia for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
|
| PORCHLIGHT TEAMS WITH CABOOM ON BEARY BOO, ; PorchLight to Represent New Conservation-Themed Preschool Show |
September 23 2008
(Los Angeles--September 23, 2008) PorchLight Entertainment has partnered with Caboom of Dublin on Beary Boo, a new animated series, which, in the fun, familiar, and aspirational context of earning merit-based “Lend-a-Paw” patches for their Fuzzy Scout troop, is focused on inspiring its young audience to incorporate ecological awareness into their everyday lives. The series, which was developed by Caboom, targets kids ages 3 to 6. Under the agreement, Caboom will produce the series and PorchLight will have worldwide distribution rights for the preschool property.
“We are pleased to be working with the talented team at Caboom on Beary Boo,” said Fred Schaefer, PorchLight’s SVP of Animation. “With Beary Boo, Caboom has created an exceptional series that combines great designs, humor, and entertaining stories with messages on conservation, recycling, and other eco-conscious themes.”
In Beary Boo, a brown bear cub named Beary joins the Fuzzy Scouts and marches to the tune of conservation and living green. In the town of Greenly Woods, Beary and his cub pals, Nate, Carlotta, and Growell are dedicated to their Scout motto, “A clean world is a green world.” Green living inspires everything they do: how they study at school, help out at home, and romp in the park. They are always discovering more about their environment and ways in which they can help keep it alive and thriving. These young scouts, along with our young audience, are growing up in a world where living green is not an abstract obligation, but rather a fun and fulfilling part of their own daily routine that actually enhances their own lives and the lives of those around them.
“Beary Boo deals with important and timely issues in an exciting and kid-friendly way,” said Shea Fontana, PorchLight’s Manager of Children’s Programming. “Under the guidance of Beary Boo, preschoolers become honorary Fuzzy Scouts and participate in the fun and adventure of Greenly Woods.”
Caboom’s creative director, Damian Farrell, describes the association with PorchLight as not only a great move forward for the Beary Boo project but also for Caboom. “Beary Boo is part of a slate of original animated and liveaction projects that we are developing and pitching in the US. We are very excited to partner with the PorchLight team as their knowledge, experience and most importantly their enthuasism, will be invaluable in helping us bring Beary Boo to life. PorchLight have been distributing animation throughout the world for many years and are well respected internationally. We are looking forward to working with them.”
This deal marks Caboom’s first distribution deal of an original property in the US.
About Caboom
Caboom is an award-winning production company with offices in Los Angeles and Dublin, working in animation (Flash, 2D, and 3D), puppetry and live action for series television, long form and commericials. Under the creative direction of director, animator, producer, and Henson-trained puppeteer Damian Farrell, Caboom has produced a wide variety of materials for broadcast in many territories, including the US, UK, and Ireland. Original series development is run out of Caboom’s LA office, which is headed up by experienced animation executive Joanne Roboz.
Since opening the office in LA last year, Caboom has done concept, design, and production work with a variety of US partners, including Disney, Icebox, Fox, TSB and American Greetings. Caboom’s most recent original series production is the puppet series “I’m On Setanta Sports,” produced for Setanta Sports UK, which has also become something of an international hit on YouTube. For more details visit www.caboom.ie.
About PorchLight Entertainment
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has produced more than 30 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS, Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, Animalia for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada, and A Tad of Christmas as well a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently producing Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; Tutenstein: Clash of the Pharaohs for Discovery Kids; A Martian Christmas, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Contact:
William Baumann
PorchLight Entertainment
(310) 477-8400
wbaumann@porchlight.com
|
| PORCHLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT TO SHOWCASE TAN AT MIPCOM; First Episode of New Animated Series to Premiere at MIPCOM Jr. |
September 21 2008
(Los Angeles---September 21, 2008) PorchLight Entertainment will unveil Tan, the new animated series from Lincoln Butterfield Animation, at MIPCOM 2008 in Cannes. According to Bruce Johnson, PorchLight’s President and CEO, a fully animated 11-minute episode will be screened during MIPCOM Junior and the series will be presented during the market.
“Tan is an animated comedy-action series that’s as twisted and sweet as a fortune cookie,” said Fred Schaefer, SVP Animation. “The first episode establishes Tan’s loony, infectious humor and off-the-wall martial arts action. We’re excited and proud to premiere it during the market.”
Tan (who just so happens to be an egg) lives in a wondrous place inhabited by good guys, bad guys and a few crazy monkeys who wear little red Fezzes. As recent graduate from the Lo Fat Martial Arts Academy & Cooking School, Tan sets out to make friends, find fortune and learn the ways of the world. He joins Foo Young, Tamago and Curry on adventures filled with laughs, wisdom and martial arts mayhem. The series targets kids ages 6 to 12.
“The character’s good-natured, kid-like confidence—he’s both endearing and very funny—makes this series appealing to a broad audience,” said Schaefer. “That, plus the enormous talent that Lincoln Butterfield brings to the table virtually ensures that the series will be both a creative and commercial success.”
Tan was created and developed by Lincoln Butterfield, LLC, a new animation studio comprised of industry veterans: director Robert Hughes (director on Disney’s “Phineas & Ferb”), Mitch Schauer (creator, Nickelodeon’s “The Angry Beavers”), producer Michael Lessa, and business exec Joseph Walker.“We all knew we had a hit on our hands with Tan, but to have a company on board with PorchLight’s history of successes is truly validating our efforts,” said Lincoln Butterfield’s Robert Hughes, “We look forward to working with them to see our vision for the series realized.”
Lincoln Butterfield will produce 26 half hour episodes, each consisting of two 11-minute shorts and PorchLight Entertainment will distribute the series worldwide. The television premiere for Tan is targeted for fall of 2009.
About PorchLight Entertainment
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has produced more than 30 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS, Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market.
For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
About Lincoln Butterfield
Founded in 2004 by veteran animator Robert Hughes (director on Disney’s “Phineas & Ferb”) and business executive Joseph Walker, Lincoln Butterfield draws upon long established relationships with talented writers, artists, directors and technical experts worldwide in order to develop and produce a wide range of innovative animation-based intellectual properties.
The founders, along with core team members Mitch Schauer (creator of “The Angry Beavers”) and Michael Lessa, have produced and directed over $150 million worth of award winning animated TV series for various studios in North America, Asia and Europe.
Contact:
William Baumann
PorchLight Entertainment
(310) 477-8400
wbaumann@porchlight.com
|
| PORCHLIGHT FINDS “WRITE” IT WITH PASCUALINA, ; PorchLight and Pascualina Producciones to Co-develop Hit Diary Series for Television |
September 12 2008
(Los Angeles, CA—September 12, 2008) -- PorchLight Entertainment has partnered with Pascualina Producciones to develop Pascualina, an animated series based on the diary book series of the same name. Under the agreement, PorchLight will be the worldwide distributor to the tween targeted series which will be produced through PorchLight’s animation studio in Los Angeles.
“We are thrilled to be working with Pascualina Productions,” said Bruce Johnson, PorchLight’s President & CEO. “In the Pascualina diaries, creator Paulina Monckeberg has made a unique world with exciting designs. The international flavor of the designs and the rich storylines provide great source material for the television series.”
Since 1990, the Pascualina diary series created by Paulina Monckeberg has sold over 5 million copies worldwide and has become a trusted companion to millions of young girls and preteens. Unlike the average diary, Pascualina is an interactive diary experience with each page a guide through the emotions and challenges facing preteens. Filled with fully illustrated color pages, stickers, greeting cards, comic style stories and much more, the Pascualina diaries tells the story of a girl named Pascualina, her family, friends and pets. Like the owner of the diary, each year Pascualina ages, matures and discovers new adventures and obstacles. The Pascualina diaries invite their owners to express themselves through writing, drawing, collage, and journaling.
In making the announcement, Shea Fontana, Porchlight’s Manager of Children’s Programming said, “The Pascualina book series offers adolescents a chance to share their lives with Pascualina, who is on the same emotional journey through life and growing up. We are excited to bring this fun and intimate relationship between the audience and characters to the television series.”
Alvaro Baeza, CEO of Pascualina Producciones noted, “We feel that the creative team at PorchLight Entertainment is the right group for us to work with on this exciting project.”
Magdalena Ross of Magma Partners, Pascualina Producciones’ representative in North America who negotiated this agreement, added, “We are excited to partner with Porchlight and Pascualina Producciones to introduce this wonderful property to the world. With the strong characters, stories and positive messages of the diaries, an animated series is the natural next step for the Pascualina brand.”
The Pascualina television series will focus on Pascualina and her eccentric, globe-trotting family. Pascualina and her siblings discover adventure, mischief and important lessons about growing up that they will share with their audience. Inspired by unique design of the journals, the series will maintain a funky, “doodled” look in 2D animation. Each half hour episode is full of tween-relatable fun and genuine emotional heart. With humorous, relevant stories, the series targets kids 6-12 years old.
Pascualina is one of four children’s diaries created and illustrated by Paulina Monckeberg. It began with Monckeberg’s interest in illustration and writing comic story lines, combined with her interest in childhood development. The diaries sell more than 1 million copies annually worldwide, with a strong following of tween girls in Latin America. Born in Santiago, Chile, Monckenberg has a degree in advertising, marketing and graphic design from University of Chile.
About PorchLight Entertainment
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has produced more than 30 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS, Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company co-produced Animalia for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
About Pascualina Producciones S.A.
Pascualina Produciones, located in Santiago, Chile, is a company in charge of the development of the business related to the family of products and bands Brujo Films, specializing in the creation of characters, illustrations and story lines for children and teens. The main brands are Pascualina, Artilugia, Rosamunda and Ludovico. The commercialization of the main product, diaries, began in 1989 by the creator and illustrator, Paulina Monckeberg. In 1998 the company began selling the diaries and related products internationally, with great success. Today, the diaries are sold throught Latin America, North America, Europe and Asia. For more information visit www.Pascualina.com.
About Magma Partners
Magma Partners LLC was formed in 2004 to help develop the Pascualina property in the US Market and around the world. Magma Partners consists of three principals, Patrice Auld, Martha Moseley and Magdalena Ross. The partnership was formed in May of 2004 and has since secured distribution partnerships with major retailers throughout the world. Magma Partners LLC is based in Seattle, Washington.
Contact:
William Baumann
PorchLight Entertainment
(310) 477-8400
wbaumann@porchlight.com
|
| TUTENSTEIN REIGNS WITH FEATURE LENGTH MOVIE, Clash of the Pharaohs to be Presented at MIPCOM Junior |
September 12 2008
Los Angeles, CA – September 12, 2008 -- The first feature length Tutenstein movie based on PorchLight Entertainment’s two-time Emmy winning television series, is set to debut on Discovery Kids in the US this fall and premiere internationally at MIPCOM Junior in October, according to Bruce Johnson, PorchLight’s President & CEO and series executive producer. Tutenstein: Clash of the Pharaohs picks up where the previous three seasons of the series left off and takes Tutenstein, the mummified boy pharaoh who was brought back to life in a modern day museum, on a more exciting journey than ever before. PorchLight will unveil Tutenstein: Clash of the Pharaohs during the MIPCOM Junior screenings and will present the movie during MIPCOM 2008.
“We are thrilled to expand the Tutenstein franchise with Tutenstein: Clash of the Pharaohs,” said Johnson. “Tutenstein has been a hit on Discovery Kids in the US and we are excited to build on the mythology, fun, and adventure in the movie.”
“Tutenstein was the first animated series for Discovery Kids and we are pleased to see the brand continue to grow with Tutenstein: Clash of the Pharaohs,” said Dea Perez, VP of Programming, Production and Operations. “Tutenstein is a classic character whose humor and charm in this movie will entertain audiences across the world.”
In Tutenstein: Clash of the Pharaohs, Tutenstein, Cleo and Luxor take the trip of a lifetime - to ancient Egypt! When Tut is plagued by nightmares concerning his death, he journeys to the past with hopes of stopping his death. But the gang arrives too late, nearly 1000 years after Tut lived. His hopes for the royal treatment are dashed when Cleo is mistaken for Cleopatra, the current Pharaoh of Egypt. With their roles reversed - Cleo playing the arrogant queen while Tut begrudgingly taking the role of her servant - Tut and Cleo’s friendship is challenged. While Cleo lets the crown go to her head, Tut and Luxor discover the Grand Vizier’s plan to take control of the kingdom by getting rid of Cleo. Tut must stop the Grand Vizier and rescue Cleo before she’s sent to the Afterlife! By the time they return to the present, Tut and Cleo learn the importance of true friendship--no matter what the era!
Both the Tutenstein movie and television series combines ancient Egyptian mythology with contemporary, urban humor and attitude. Its goal is to accurately portray the diverse Egyptian mythology, utilizing stories and characters that reflect the lives of kids today. In order to do so, PorchLight’s production team works closely with Dr. Peter Lacovara, Tutenstein’s Egyptology consultant who authenticates the Egyptian content.
As well as leading Tutenstein: Clash of The Pharaohs production, PorchLight holds worldwide TV distribution rights and licensing and video rights, excluding the United States and South America. PorchLight Entertainment produces Tutenstein for Discovery Kids. The series is co-produced by Telegael. Executive producers are Bruce Johnson, William Baumann, Martha Ripp and Paul Cummins.
About Tutenstein:
Tutenstein tells the tales of a 3010 year old boy-mummy-Pharaoh who is brought back to life following a lightning strike upon his sarcophagus on display in a modern day museum. Short on stature but long on attitude, he believes he is the supreme ruler of the world and schemes to take his rightful place through the antics and adventures that only a 3010-year-old boy-mummy could muster in this day and age. Tut is joined by Cleo (a hip, 21st-century, 12-year-old girl) and Luxor (his faithful, talking-cat servant). PorchLight Entertainment produces Tutenstein for Discovery Kids. Tutenstein can be found on the web at www.tutenstein.com and www.discoverykids.com.
About PorchLight Entertainment
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has produced more than 30 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the multiple Emmy Award-winning series Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS, Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading educational toy company. In addition to ANIMALIA, the Company is currently producing Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD markets. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
For more information contact:
Bruce Johnson
PorchLight Entertainment
(310) 477-8400
bjohnson@porchlight.com
|
| TUTENSTEIN REIGNS WITH FEATURE LENGTH MOVIE, Clash of the Pharaohs to be Presented at MIPCOM Junior |
September 12 2008
Los Angeles, CA – September 12, 2008 -- The first feature length Tutenstein movie based on PorchLight Entertainment’s two-time Emmy winning television series, is set to debut on Discovery Kids in the US this fall and premiere internationally at MIPCOM Junior in October, according to Bruce Johnson, PorchLight’s President & CEO and series executive producer. Tutenstein: Clash of the Pharaohs picks up where the previous three seasons of the series left off and takes Tutenstein, the mummified boy pharaoh who was brought back to life in a modern day museum, on a more exciting journey than ever before. PorchLight will unveil Tutenstein: Clash of the Pharaohs during the MIPCOM Junior screenings and will present the movie during MIPCOM 2008.
“We are thrilled to expand the Tutenstein franchise with Tutenstein: Clash of the Pharaohs,” said Johnson. “Tutenstein has been a hit on Discovery Kids in the US and we are excited to build on the mythology, fun, and adventure in the movie.”
“Tutenstein was the first animated series for Discovery Kids and we are pleased to see the brand continue to grow with Tutenstein: Clash of the Pharaohs,” said Dea Perez, VP of Programming, Production and Operations. “Tutenstein is a classic character whose humor and charm in this movie will entertain audiences across the world.”
In Tutenstein: Clash of the Pharaohs, Tutenstein, Cleo and Luxor take the trip of a lifetime - to ancient Egypt! When Tut is plagued by nightmares concerning his death, he journeys to the past with hopes of stopping his death. But the gang arrives too late, nearly 1000 years after Tut lived. His hopes for the royal treatment are dashed when Cleo is mistaken for Cleopatra, the current Pharaoh of Egypt. With their roles reversed - Cleo playing the arrogant queen while Tut begrudgingly taking the role of her servant - Tut and Cleo’s friendship is challenged. While Cleo lets the crown go to her head, Tut and Luxor discover the Grand Vizier’s plan to take control of the kingdom by getting rid of Cleo. Tut must stop the Grand Vizier and rescue Cleo before she’s sent to the Afterlife! By the time they return to the present, Tut and Cleo learn the importance of true friendship--no matter what the era!
Both the Tutenstein movie and television series combines ancient Egyptian mythology with contemporary, urban humor and attitude. Its goal is to accurately portray the diverse Egyptian mythology, utilizing stories and characters that reflect the lives of kids today. In order to do so, PorchLight’s production team works closely with Dr. Peter Lacovara, Tutenstein’s Egyptology consultant who authenticates the Egyptian content.
As well as leading Tutenstein: Clash of The Pharaohs production, PorchLight holds worldwide TV distribution rights and licensing and video rights, excluding the United States and South America. PorchLight Entertainment produces Tutenstein for Discovery Kids. The series is co-produced by Telegael. Executive producers are Bruce Johnson, William Baumann, Martha Ripp and Paul Cummins.
About Tutenstein:
Tutenstein tells the tales of a 3010 year old boy-mummy-Pharaoh who is brought back to life following a lightning strike upon his sarcophagus on display in a modern day museum. Short on stature but long on attitude, he believes he is the supreme ruler of the world and schemes to take his rightful place through the antics and adventures that only a 3010-year-old boy-mummy could muster in this day and age. Tut is joined by Cleo (a hip, 21st-century, 12-year-old girl) and Luxor (his faithful, talking-cat servant). PorchLight Entertainment produces Tutenstein for Discovery Kids. Tutenstein can be found on the web at www.tutenstein.com and www.discoverykids.com.
About PorchLight Entertainment
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has produced more than 30 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the multiple Emmy Award-winning series Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS, Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading educational toy company. In addition to ANIMALIA, the Company is currently producing Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD markets. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
For more information contact:
Bruce Johnson
PorchLight Entertainment
(310) 477-8400
bjohnson@porchlight.com
|
| PorchLight Home Entertainment Acquires U.S. DVD Rights to Together Again for the First Time From Brownie Films |
August 11 2008
LOS ANGELES — August 11, 2008 — For Immediate Release — PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) has acquired U.S.DVD rights to the feature film Together Again for the First Time from Brownie Films, it was announced today by Robert Yu, vice president, feature films acquisitions, PorchLight Entertainment. Additionally, worldwide distribution rights in all mediums were acquired by parent company PorchLight Entertainment.
The holiday-themed comedy will be released on PHE’s newly launched Ocean Park label, which spotlights cutting-edge, independent films with diverse appeal.
Together Again for the First Time stars Julia Duffy (TV’s Newhart, Drake and Josh), David Ogden Stiers (TV’s M*A*S*H, The Dead Zone), Kelly Stables (The Ring, The Ring Two), Joey Lawrence (Blossom, Master of Dance, Rest Stop) & Larisa Oleynik (10 Things I Hate About You, TV’s 3rd Rock From the Sun). The film was written, produced, and directed by Jeff Parkin and was based on a play by Reed McColm , who also co wrote the script and was a producer on the project.
In Together Again for the First Time, the Wolders-Frobisher family hasn’t been in the same house since their parents marriage seven years before. The long awaited reunion this holiday season would normally be cause to celebrate, if they could only stand each other’s company…but they can’t. Matters only get worse with the unexpected arrival of an ex-boyfriend, an unannounced television broadcast, and the revelation of a dark family secret. Together Again for the First Time reminds us of the importance of family, even when you don’t like each other very much.
Pre-order date is Sept. 10. Street date is Oct. 14 and the suggested list price is $24.98
Commented Yu, “Together Again for the First Time is an engaging, light-hearted comedy with universal appeal and soul. This film is a shining addition to the PorchLight Home Entertainment/Ocean Park library.”
Executive Producer James Huntsman, Brownie Films, added, “We’re thrilled to work with PorchLight on this title. They’re synonymous with family entertainment and have built a terrific brand. Their team has a strong track record of getting product into the marketplace.”
The acquisition was brokered by Todd Slater on behalf of Brownie Films.
About Brownie Films:
Brownie Films is an independent film production company created in 2006 by James Huntsman and shortly thereafter acquired the film rights to the play Together Again for the First Time. Company is based on Los Angeles.
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining.
Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues. In spring 2008, PHE launched the Porchlight INSPIRE label, featuring inspirational and faith-based children’s and family entertainment, and Ocean Park Home Entertainment, showcasing cutting-edge, independent films with diverse appeal. PHE
is headed by Gary Jones.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Contact:
Vicki Greenleaf
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| PorchLight Home Entertainment Acquires U.S. DVD Rights to Together Again for the First Time From Brownie Films |
August 11 2008
LOS ANGELES — August 11, 2008 — For Immediate Release — PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) has acquired U.S.DVD rights to the feature film Together Again for the First Time from Brownie Films, it was announced today by Robert Yu, vice president, feature films acquisitions, PorchLight Entertainment. Additionally, worldwide distribution rights in all mediums were acquired by parent company PorchLight Entertainment.
The holiday-themed comedy will be released on PHE’s newly launched Ocean Park label, which spotlights cutting-edge, independent films with diverse appeal.
Together Again for the First Time stars Julia Duffy (TV’s Newhart, Drake and Josh), David Ogden Stiers (TV’s M*A*S*H, The Dead Zone), Kelly Stables (The Ring, The Ring Two), Joey Lawrence (Blossom, Master of Dance, Rest Stop) & Larisa Oleynik (10 Things I Hate About You, TV’s 3rd Rock From the Sun). The film was written, produced, and directed by Jeff Parkin and was based on a play by Reed McColm , who also co wrote the script and was a producer on the project.
In Together Again for the First Time, the Wolders-Frobisher family hasn’t been in the same house since their parents marriage seven years before. The long awaited reunion this holiday season would normally be cause to celebrate, if they could only stand each other’s company…but they can’t. Matters only get worse with the unexpected arrival of an ex-boyfriend, an unannounced television broadcast, and the revelation of a dark family secret. Together Again for the First Time reminds us of the importance of family, even when you don’t like each other very much.
Pre-order date is Sept. 10. Street date is Oct. 14 and the suggested list price is $24.98
Commented Yu, “Together Again for the First Time is an engaging, light-hearted comedy with universal appeal and soul. This film is a shining addition to the PorchLight Home Entertainment/Ocean Park library.”
Executive Producer James Huntsman, Brownie Films, added, “We’re thrilled to work with PorchLight on this title. They’re synonymous with family entertainment and have built a terrific brand. Their team has a strong track record of getting product into the marketplace.”
The acquisition was brokered by Todd Slater on behalf of Brownie Films.
About Brownie Films:
Brownie Films is an independent film production company created in 2006 by James Huntsman and shortly thereafter acquired the film rights to the play Together Again for the First Time. Company is based on Los Angeles.
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining.
Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues. In spring 2008, PHE launched the Porchlight INSPIRE label, featuring inspirational and faith-based children’s and family entertainment, and Ocean Park Home Entertainment, showcasing cutting-edge, independent films with diverse appeal. PHE
is headed by Gary Jones.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Contact:
Vicki Greenleaf
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| PorchLight Home Entertainment Proudly Presents Funky Town: Volumes 1 & 2 -Where the Animals Go Urban |
August 1 2008
LOS ANGELES — Aug. 1, 2008 — For Immediate Release — Following in the foot prints –make that hoof prints – of Funky Valley, Funky Town, Volumes 1 & 2 gallop onto DVD for the first time ever Aug. 26 from PorchLight Home Entertainment.
In Funky Town, for ages 2-5, two friends from Funky Valley, Clara the chicken and accident-prone Dippy the Cow, have left the farm and traveled to the city where they now run a laid-back milk bar. While Clara runs the business, Dippy attempts to deliver milk on the milk float … though it’s a mystery why Clara allows her clumsy friend to do it!
Funky Town: Volume 1 episodes include: “Turbo Charged Dippy,” “Beautiful Chipolata,” “Teeny Weeny,” “Sale! Sale! Sale!,” “Super Dippy,” “Aliens Attack,” “Gone Bananas,” “Mayor Norris,” “Super Dooper Vending Machine,” “Cheesy Peasy,” “Dippy and the Dog,” “Fairy Nice Cakes” and “There’s Something Down the Sewers.”
Funky Town: Volume 2 episodes include: “The Big Game,” “The Raindance,” “Money Money Money,” “Power Cut,” “Boat Race,” “Oh! Baby!,” “Dippy’s Breakdown,” “The Daily News,” “Beauty and the Feast,” “Chipolata’s Birthday,” “Home Movies,” “A Star in Their Eyes,” “Norris’ Milk Bar” and “The Great Grass Pudding Disaster.”
Funky Town, Volumes 1 & 2 are presented in full screen with an aspect ration of 4:3.
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues. In spring 2008, PHE launched two specialty labels, PorchLight INSPIRE, distributing inspirational and faith-based children’s and family entertainment, and Ocean Park Home Entertainment, featuring cutting-edge, independent films with diverse appeal. PHE is headed by Gary Jones.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Funky Town: Volumes 1 & 2
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Genre: Children’s, Ages 2-5
Not Rated
Format: DVD Only
Running Time: Approx. 65 Minutes Each
Suggested Retail Price: $9.98 Each
Pre-Order Date: July 23, 2008
Street Date: August 26, 2008
Catalog #s: Funky Town: Volume 1 – #1040
Funky Town: Volume 2 – #1041
UPC Codes: Funky Town: Volume 1 – #810863010401
Funky Town: Volume 2 – #810863010418
Contacts:
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
Vicki Greenleaf — vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
For screeners or artwork, please call or e-mail:
Karen Brundage — karen@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| PorchLight Home Entertainment Proudly Presents Pope Dreams - Where Would Your Dreams Take You? |
August 1 2008
“Pope Dreams is a winner!”
— Film Threat
“A heartfelt, coming of age story …”
— The Hollywood Reporter
LOS ANGELES — Aug. 1, 2008 — For Immediate Release — A young drifter suddenly has lofty goals in Pope Dreams, soaring onto DVD from PorchLight Home Entertainment.
A directionless, 19-year-old dreamer, Andy Venable (Phillip Vaden, in his feature film debut), spends his days working for his hard-case dad (Stephen Tobolowsky, Groundhog Day, Heroes) and his nights playing drums in a loud, heavy-metal band. His only clear goal at the moment is to get his ailing mother (Julie Hagerty, Airplane!, Lost in America), a devout Catholic, to meet the Pope before she dies.
While dealing with it all, he falls for Brady (Marnette Patterson, Nip/Tuck, Starship Troopers 3), a girl totally out of his league, and gets discovered by two Broadway producers for a musical talent that just might be his true calling. But dreaming is easy. It’s reality that’s hard.
Co-starring Noel Fisher (The Riches, Final Destination 2), Pope Dreams is a coming-of-age story filled with heart, music, life and loss … oh, and the Pope.
Pope Dreams has earned 11 awards at film festivals across the country and features songs from some of the best up-and-coming bands in the music scene, including The Red West, Populuxe, Mike Caro, Eddie Cohn, Nathaniel’s Endeavors and Humming-Wire.
Pope Dreams is presented in widescreen with an aspect ratio of 16 x 9 (1.78:1), 5.1 Dolby Digital sound and is closed-captioned. Special features include audio commentary, deleted scenes and outtakes.
About Pescadito Productions:
Pescadito Productions was formed in 2004 to develop and produce high-quality, meaningful films, both within and outside the mainstream studio system. Founded by writer/directors Steve Loh and P. Patrick Hogan, the company’s labors of love stem from the passion of those who still believe that movies should do just that…move. Pope Dreams is Pescadito Productions’ first feature length-film brought to the screen. Current projects in development include Inside Out, Super-Hero Man and The Devil You Know.
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues. In spring 2008, PHE launched two specialty labels, PorchLight INSPIRE, distributing inspirational and faith-based children’s and family entertainment, and Ocean Park Home Entertainment, featuring cutting-edge, independent films with diverse appeal. PHE is headed by Gary Jones.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Pope Dreams
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Genre: Drama
Not Rated
Format: DVD Only
Running Time: 105 Minutes (Plus Special Features)
Suggested Retail Price: $24.98
Pre-Order Date: July 23, 2008
Street Date: August 26, 2008
Catalog #: 1061
UPC Code: 810863010616
Contacts:
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
Vicki Greenleaf — vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
For screeners or artwork, please call or e-mail:
Karen Brundage — karen@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| PorchLight INSPIRE Proudly Presents Adventures From the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Faith |
August 1 2008
“… these lessons are listener-friendly and easily swallowed. In fact, they’re downright imaginative!”
— The Hollywood Reporter
LOS ANGELES — Aug. 1, 2008 — For Immediate Release — Enlightening, inspiring and sparking the imagination of families everywhere, Adventures From the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Faith shines on DVD for the first time ever Aug. 12 from PorchLight INSPIRE.
Based on the #1 bestseller The Book of Virtues by William J. Bennett (over 5 million copies sold), Adventures From the Book of Virtues reaches out to children to teach important life lessons and morals. Illustrating a central theme through classic international heroes and stories, the DVDs illuminate the core virtues of honesty, compassion, responsibility, courage, self-discipline, work, friendship, loyalty, perseverance and faith. Stories are seen through the eyes of young Zach and Annie, who live in Spring Valley and deal with the same pressures and situations faced by kids everywhere.
Adventures in Faith includes the episodes “The Good Samaritan,” “Androcles and the Lion,” “Harriet Tubman” and “Daniel and the Lion’s Den.” Presented in full frame 4 x 3 (1.33:1). Special features include a Spanish-language dub track.
Also available Aug. 12 from PorchLight Home Entertainment: Adventures From the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Honesty and Adventures From the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Courage (SRP $12.98 each. Catalog #1057 and #1058). All three titles will be available in the Adventures From the Book of Virtues: The Box Set (SRP $29.98, Catalog #1064).
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues. In spring 2008, PHE launched two specialty labels, PorchLight INSPIRE, distributing inspirational and faith-based children’s and family entertainment, and Ocean Park Home Entertainment, featuring cutting-edge, independent films with diverse appeal. PHE is headed by Gary Jones.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Adventures From the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Faith
PorchLight INSPIRE
Genre: Children’s/Inspirational
Not Rated
Format: DVD Only
Running Time: Approx. 50 Minutes
Suggested Retail Price: $12.98
Pre-Order Date: July 9, 2008
Street Date: August 12, 2008
Catalog #: 1035
UPC Code: 810863010357
Contacts:
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
Vicki Greenleaf — vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
For screeners or artwork, please call or e-mail:
Karen Brundage — karen@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| PorchLight INSPIRE Proudly Presents Adventures From the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Honesty Adventures From he Book of Virtues: Adventures in Courage |
August 1 2008
“… these lessons are listener-friendly and easily swallowed. In fact, they’re downright imaginative!”
— The Hollywood Reporter
LOS ANGELES — Aug. 1, 2008 — For Immediate Release — Reaching out to children through a remarkable cast of characters to teach important life lessons and morals, Adventures From the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Honesty and Adventures From the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Courage come to DVD for the first time ever Aug. 12 from PorchLight Home Entertainment.
Based on the #1 bestseller The Book of Virtues by William J. Bennett (over 5 million copies sold), Adventures From the Book of Virtues reaches out to children to teach important life lessons and morals. Illustrating a central theme through classic international heroes and stories, the DVDs illuminate the core virtues of honesty, compassion, responsibility, courage, self-discipline, work, friendship, loyalty, perseverance and faith. Stories are seen through the eyes of young Zach and Annie, who live in Spring Valley and deal with the same pressures and situations faced by kids everywhere.
Adventures in Honesty features the episodes “The Frog Prince,” “George Washington and the Cherry Tree,” “The Indian Cinderella,” “Diamonds and Toads,” “The Bell of Atri,” “The Emperor’s New Clothes” and “Phaeton.”
Adventures in Courage includes the episodes “Icarus and Daedalus,” “King Alfred and the Cakes,” “William Tell,” “The Minotaur,” “Ulysses and the Cyclops” and “Scarface.” Both DVDs are presented in full frame 4 x 3 (1.33:1). Special features include a Spanish-language dub track.
Also available Aug. 12 from PorchLight INSPIRE is Adventures From the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Faith (SRP $12.98, Catalog #1035). All three titles will be available in the Adventures From the Book of Virtues: The Box Set (SRP $29.98, Catalog #1064).
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues. In spring 2008, PHE launched two specialty labels, PorchLight INSPIRE, distributing inspirational and faith-based children’s and family entertainment, and Ocean Park Home Entertainment, featuring cutting-edge, independent films with diverse appeal. PHE is headed by Gary Jones.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Adventures From the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Honesty
Adventures From the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Courage
Adventures From the Book of Virtues: The Box Set
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Genre: Children’s
Not Rated
Format: DVD Only
Running Time:
Adventures From the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Honesty – Approx. 75 Minutes
Adventures From the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Courage – Approx. 75 Minutes
Adventures From the Book of Virtues: The Box Set – Approx. 200 Minutes
Suggested Retail Price:
Adventures From the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Honesty – $12.98
Adventures From the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Courage – $12.98
Adventures From the Book of Virtues: The Box Set – $29.98
Pre-Order Date: July 9, 2008
Street Date: August 12, 2008
Catalog #:
Adventures From the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Honesty – 1057
Adventures From the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Courage – 1058
Adventures From the Book of Virtues: The Box Set – 1064
UPC Code:
Adventures From the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Honesty – 810863010579
Adventures From the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Courage – 810863010586
Adventures From the Book of Virtues: The Box Set – 810863010647
Contacts:
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
Vicki Greenleaf — vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
For screeners or artwork, please call or e-mail:
Karen Brundage — karen@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| PorchLight Home Entertainment Acquires DVD Rights to Dear Me, A Blogger’s Tale DVD Rights to Dear Me, A Blogger’s Tale From Shutter Star Pictures |
July 28 2008
Romantic Comedy to be Released on Newly Launched Ocean Park Label, Which Spotlights Cutting-Edge, Independent Films With Diverse Appeal
LOS ANGELES — July 28, 2008 — For Immediate Release — PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) has acquired U.S. DVD rights to the feature film Dear Me, A Blogger’s Tale from Shutter Star Pictures, it was announced today by Robert Yu, vice president, feature films acquisitions, PorchLight Entertainment.
The romantic comedy will be released on PHE’s newly launched Ocean Park label, which spotlights cutting-edge, independent films with diverse appeal.
In Dear Me, A Blogger’s Tale, Samantha Billows wants nothing more than to be a copywriter at The Hunt Advertising Agency. But, riddled with anxiety, Samantha somehow always finds just the wrong thing to say. No therapist is able to help her move beyond her invisible life as a plant maintenance person. But then a miracle happens … By typing away the anxiety into her blog, “Dear Me,” she gains control of her life and her creativity shines through. Her career and love life blossom until “Dear Me” is discovered and devilishly exploited by a co-worker. Now it may destroy her and everything around her ...
Dear Me, A Blogger’s Tale, featuring original music, stars Sarah Thompson (the upcoming Break with Michael Madsen, Charles Durning and Chad Everett, 7th Heaven, Angel), David DeLuise (the upcoming Route 30 with Dana Delaney, Wizards of Waverly Place, 3rd Rock From the Sun), Felicia Day (Buffy the Vampire Slayer, The Guild, the hit web musical Dr. Horrible’s Sing Along Blog). David O’Donnell (Dirty Love, Thirteen Days, Air Force One), Michael Bowen (Kill Bill Vol.1, Magnolia, ABC’s Lost) and Dan Lauria (The Wonder Years). The film was produced by April Sugarman and Steven Weiss-Smith, who also co-wrote the screenplay, and directed by Mike Feifer.
Pre-order date is Oct. 1, street date is Nov. 4 and suggested list price is $24.98.
Said Yu, “Dear Me, A Blogger’s Tale is exemplary of the type of innovative and captivating independent filmmaking that PorchLight Home Entertainment is seeking for the Ocean Park label.”
Added the film’s Producer, Steven Weiss-Smith, Shutter Star Pictures, “We are thrilled that Dear Me, a Bloggers Tale is among the exceptional films being released on PorchLight’s newly formed label Ocean Park. As our distributor, Porchlight’s family atmosphere and hip attitude make them a laudable creative partner.”
About Shutter Star Pictures:
Shutter Star Pictures prides itself on merging the latest filmmaking technology with timeless stories never before told to create studio-style universal messages that captivate and inspire. Whether it is the story of an introverted blogger whose therapy becomes an Internet sensation or a 12,000-year-old discovery that will solve a health mystery eluding scientists for centuries—all carry a unique message that stands apart from anything previously filmed. These independently financed and professionally produced films will capture audiences world wide with their unique story line and creative flair.
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed on DVD by PHE are: Animalia, based on the bestselling books and now
seen on Animania HD and PBS; the award-winning 64 Zoo Lane, based on the bestselling books, airing on Nickelodeon Jr.’s Noggin network; and the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues. In spring 2008, PHE launched two specialty labels, PorchLight INSPIRE, distributing inspirational
and faith-based children’s and family entertainment, and Ocean Park Home Entertainment, featuring cutting-edge, independent films with diverse appeal, including such titles as Outsourced and Pope Dreams. PHE is headed by Gary Jones.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Contact:
Vicki Greenleaf
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| PorchLight Home Entertainment Acquires DVD Rights to Dear Me, A Blogger's Tale From Shutter Star Pictures |
July 28 2008
LOS ANGELES — July 28, 2008 — For Immediate Release — PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) has acquired U.S. DVD rights to the feature film Dear Me, A Blogger’s Tale from Shutter Star Pictures, it was announced today by Robert Yu, vice president, feature films acquisitions, PorchLight Entertainment.
The romantic comedy will be released on PHE’s newly launched Ocean Park label, which spotlights cutting-edge, independent films with diverse appeal.
In Dear Me, A Blogger’s Tale, Samantha Billows wants nothing more than to be a copywriter at The Hunt Advertising Agency. But, riddled with anxiety, Samantha somehow always finds just the wrong thing to say. No therapist is able to help her move beyond her invisible life as a plant maintenance person. But then a miracle happens … By typing away the anxiety into her blog, “Dear Me,” she gains control of her life and her creativity shines through. Her career and love life blossom until “Dear Me” is discovered and devilishly exploited by a co-worker. Now it may destroy her and everything around her ...
Dear Me, A Blogger’s Tale, featuring original music, stars Sarah Thompson (the upcoming Break with Michael Madsen, Charles Durning and Chad Everett, 7th Heaven, Angel), David DeLuise (the upcoming Route 30 with Dana Delaney, Wizards of Waverly Place, 3rd Rock From the Sun), Felicia Day (Buffy the Vampire Slayer, The Guild, the hit web musical Dr. Horrible’s Sing Along Blog). David O’Donnell (Dirty Love, Thirteen Days, Air Force One), Michael Bowen (Kill Bill Vol.1, Magnolia, ABC’s Lost) and Dan Lauria (The Wonder Years). The film was produced by April Sugarman and Steven Weiss-Smith, who also co-wrote the screenplay, and directed by Mike Feifer.
Pre-order date is Oct. 1, street date is Nov. 4 and suggested list price is $24.98.
Said Yu, “Dear Me, A Blogger’s Tale is exemplary of the type of innovative and captivating independent filmmaking that PorchLight Home Entertainment is seeking for the Ocean Park label.”
Added the film’s Producer, Steven Weiss-Smith, Shutter Star Pictures, “We are thrilled that Dear Me, a Bloggers Tale is among the exceptional films being released on PorchLight’s newly formed label Ocean Park. As our distributor, Porchlight’s family atmosphere and hip attitude make them a laudable creative partner.”
About Shutter Star Pictures:
Shutter Star Pictures prides itself on merging the latest filmmaking technology with timeless stories never before told to create studio-style universal messages that captivate and inspire. Whether it is the story of an introverted blogger whose therapy becomes an Internet sensation or a 12,000-year-old discovery that will solve a health mystery eluding scientists for centuries—all carry a unique message that stands apart from anything previously filmed. These independently financed and professionally produced films will capture audiences world wide with their unique story line and creative flair.
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed on DVD by PHE are: Animalia, based on the bestselling books and now seen on Animania HD and PBS; the award-winning 64 Zoo Lane, based on the bestselling books, airing on Nickelodeon Jr.’s Noggin network; and the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues. In spring 2008, PHE launched two specialty labels, PorchLight INSPIRE, distributing inspirational and faith-based children’s and family entertainment, and Ocean Park Home Entertainment,
featuring cutting-edge, independent films with diverse appeal, including such titles as Outsourced and Pope Dreams. PHE is headed by Gary Jones.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
|
| 64 Zoo Lane - When Night Falls, Dreams & Adventures Begin...Visit a Place Where Animals and Imagination Run Wild |
July 1 2008
LOS ANGELES — July 1, 2008 — For Immediate Release — Children ages 2-5 will have a g-r-r-r-eat time with their new animal friends at 64 Zoo Lane, roaring onto DVD July 29 from PorchLight Home Entertainment.
From the award-winning Belgium television producer and best-selling author An Vrombaut, 64 Zoo Lane follows the adventures of a little girl named Lucy who lives at 64 Zoo Lane, next door to a zoo. Every night, she climbs out of her window, slides down the long neck of Georgina the giraffe and listens to one of the animals at the zoo tell her a story.
Georgina, Nelson the elephant, Zed the zebra, Tickles and Giggles the monkeys, Henrietta the hairy hippopotamus, Joey the kangaroo, Snowbert the polar bear and Kevin the crocodile entertain as children explore social and emotional issues (like responsibility, friendship, helping and caring) and learn about language and vocabulary.
64 Zoo Lane, which currently airs on Nickelodeon Jr.’s Noggin network for preschoolers in the U.S. and the BBC in the U.K., has won the 2002 British Animation Award for Best Pre-School Series and the 2000 Pulcinella Prize for Best Series for Children at the international television festival Cartoons on the Bay. Six new 64 Zoo Lane books were released April 28 from Hodder and Stoughton.
Episodes included on this feature-length DVD include “Nelson the Elephant,” “Adam the Armadillo,” “Herbert the Warthog,” “Pauline the Pelican,” “Toby the Tortoise,” “Doris the Duck,” “Wally the Wombat” and “Melanie the Moose.”
With timeless picture book quality, 64 Zoo Lane is presented in full frame 4 x 3 (1.33:1).
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining.
Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of
Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues. In spring 2008, PHE launched the Porchlight INSPIRE label, featuring inspirational and faith-based children’s and family entertainment, and Ocean Park Home Entertainment, showcasing cutting-edge, independent films with diverse appeal.
PHE is headed by Gary Jones.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
64 Zoo Lane
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Genre: Children’s, Ages 2-5
Not Rated
Format: DVD Only
Running Time: 88 Minutes
Suggested Retail Price: $14.98
Pre-Order Date: June 25, 2008
Street Date: July 29, 2008
Catalog #: 1055
UPC Code: 810863010555
|
| PorchLight Home Entertainment Proudly Presents 64 Zoo Lane - 64 Zoo Lane |
July 1 2008
When Night Falls, Dreams & Adventures Begin …Visit a Place Where Animals and Imagination Run Wild
Based on the Best-Selling Books, Award-Winning Children’s Program Roars Onto DVD For the First Time Ever July 29th
LOS ANGELES — July 1, 2008 — For Immediate Release — Children ages 2-5 will have a g-r-r-r-eat time with their new animal friends at 64 Zoo Lane, roaring onto DVD July 29 from PorchLight Home Entertainment.
From the award-winning Belgium television producer and best-selling author An Vrombaut, 64 Zoo Lane follows the adventures of a little girl named Lucy who lives at 64 Zoo Lane, next door to a zoo. Every night, she climbs out of her window, slides down the long neck of Georgina the giraffe and listens to one of the animals at the zoo tell her a story.
Georgina, Nelson the elephant, Zed the zebra, Tickles and Giggles the monkeys, Henrietta the hairy hippopotamus, Joey the kangaroo, Snowbert the polar bear and Kevin the crocodile entertain as children explore social and emotional issues (like responsibility, friendship, helping and caring) and learn about language and vocabulary.
64 Zoo Lane, which currently airs on Nickelodeon Jr.’s Noggin network for preschoolers in the U.S. and the BBC in the U.K., has won the 2002 British Animation Award for Best Pre-School Series and the 2000 Pulcinella Prize for Best Series for Children at the international television festival Cartoons on the Bay. Six new 64 Zoo Lane books were released April 28 from Hodder and Stoughton.
Episodes included on this feature-length DVD include “Nelson the Elephant,” “Adam the Armadillo,” “Herbert the Warthog,” “Pauline the Pelican,” “Toby the Tortoise,” “Doris the Duck,” “Wally the Wombat” and “Melanie the Moose.”
With timeless picture book quality, 64 Zoo Lane is presented in full frame 4 x 3 (1.33:1).
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining.
Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of
Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues. In spring 2008, PHE launched the Porchlight INSPIRE label, featuring inspirational and faith-based children’s and family entertainment, and Ocean Park Home Entertainment, showcasing cutting-edge, independent films with diverse appeal.
PHE is headed by Gary Jones.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
64 Zoo Lane
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Genre: Children’s, Ages 2-5
Not Rated
Format: DVD Only
Running Time: 88 Minutes
Suggested Retail Price: $14.98
Pre-Order Date: June 25, 2008
Street Date: July 29, 2008
Catalog #: 1055
UPC Code: 810863010555
Contacts:
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
Vicki Greenleaf — vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
For screeners or artwork, please call or e-mail: Karen Brundage — karen@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| Welcome to the new PorchLight Entertainment website. Since its founding in 1995 as a production company, PorchLight has grown, expanded and evolved into a multi-dimensional entertainment company. T |
June 17 2008
Welcome to the new PorchLight Entertainment website. Since its founding in 1995 as a production company, PorchLight has grown, expanded and evolved into a multi-dimensional entertainment company. This revised website more accurately reflects who we are. PorchLight Entertainment produces original animation and a variety of live action productions. The company is also a major distributor of high quality television programs and films, serving markets and audiences worldwide. In addition, PorchLight Home Entertainment is a distributor of DVD based programming content for retail markets in the US. PorchLight is also involved with digital platforms online, especially in the children′s area, and licensing for consumer products worldwide. With a fresh look and a user-friendly interface, we invite you take a look at our catalog of over 1,200 episodes of television programs and nearly 200 film titles. While PorchLight′s website has changed and the company expanded and grown, our goal is to provide our customers and the public with high quality, empowering children′s programming along with a superb, carefully selected library of outstanding general entertainment.
And as before, the PorchLight is always on, and you are always welcome here.
|
| "Loopdidoo" barrels onto DVD June 24, from PorchLight Home Entertainment. |
June 1 2008
LOS ANGELES — June 1, 2008 — For Immediate Release — Full of loopiness, laughter and little life lessons, Loopdidoo barrels onto DVD June 24, from PorchLight Home Entertainment.
Based upon the popular comic books Grabouillon by Alexis Nesme, Loopdidoo, an animated program for children ages three to five, premiered March 1 on U.S. television on Animania, the children’s channel of VOOM HD Networks.
In Loopdidoo, a goofy dog named Loopdidoo and his five-year-old owner and best friend, Petunia, find everyday life to be just one big adventure. Seemingly harmless situations soon turn into breakneck adventures, especially when Loopdidoo throws his well meant enthusiasm in the balance.
Join Petunia, Oodles, Basil and the greatest dog in the world for the first time on DVD! Episodes on Loopdidoo include: “Wet Paint,” “Chef’s Surprise!,” “The Party!,” “A Smokin’ Idea,” “The End of the World,” “Grumble-Bee,” “Spring Cleaning,” “Just What the Doctor Ordered,” “The Crazy Kite,” “High and Dry,” “No Swimming,” “Nonsense Network” and “A Very Dangerous Cake.”
Loopdidoo is presented in widescreen with an aspect ratio of 16 x 9 (1.78:1).
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertain-ing. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Loopdidoo
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Genre: Children’s
Not Rated
Format: DVD Only
Running Time: Approx. 85 Minutes
Suggested Retail Price: $14.98
Pre-Order Date: May 21, 2008
Street Date: June 24, 2008
Catalog #: 1054
UPC Code: #810863010548
Contacts:
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
Vicki Greenleaf — vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
For screeners or artwork, please call or e-mail:
Karen Brundage — karen@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| Loopdidoo - Loopiness, Laughter & Little Life Lessons |
June 1 2008
LOS ANGELES — June 1, 2008 — For Immediate Release — Full of loopiness, laughter and little life lessons, Loopdidoo barrels onto DVD June 24, from PorchLight Home Entertainment.
Based upon the popular comic books Grabouillon by Alexis Nesme, Loopdidoo, an animated program for children ages three to five, premiered March 1 on U.S. television on Animania, the children’s channel of VOOM HD Networks.
In Loopdidoo, a goofy dog named Loopdidoo and his five-year-old owner and best friend, Petunia, find everyday life to be just one big adventure. Seemingly harmless situations soon turn into breakneck adventures, especially when Loopdidoo throws his well meant enthusiasm in the balance.
Join Petunia, Oodles, Basil and the greatest dog in the world for the first time on DVD! Episodes on Loopdidoo include: “Wet Paint,” “Chef’s Surprise!,” “The Party!,” “A Smokin’ Idea,” “The End of the World,” “Grumble-Bee,” “Spring Cleaning,” “Just What the Doctor Ordered,” “The Crazy Kite,” “High and Dry,” “No Swimming,” “Nonsense Network” and “A Very Dangerous Cake.”
Loopdidoo is presented in widescreen with an aspect ratio of 16 x 9 (1.78:1).
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertain-ing. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Loopdidoo
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Genre: Children’s
Not Rated
Format: DVD Only
Running Time: Approx. 85 Minutes
Suggested Retail Price: $14.98
Pre-Order Date: May 21, 2008
Street Date: June 24, 2008
Catalog #: 1054
UPC Code: #810863010548
Contacts:
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
Vicki Greenleaf — vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
For screeners or artwork, please call or e-mail:
Karen Brundage — karen@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| PorchLight Acquires Three Films in Advance of Cannes Film Festival, including the Tribeca Audience Award Winner, "War Child". |
June 1 2008
Los Angeles, May 6, 2008: PorchLight Entertainment continues to diversify its slate as it heads into Cannes. PorchLight’s President of Worldwide Distribution, Ken DuBow, announced today the acquisition of worldwide rights (ex-North America) to GOOBY, from director/writer/producer Wilson Coneybeare (Monster Warriors, Timeblazers), in a deal brokered by Ken DuBow and Coneybeare. PorchLight also acquired international rights to EMMANUEL JAL: WAR CHILD, which just won the prestigious Audience Award at the Tribeca Film Festival; and has acquired international rights to James Moll’s acclaimed documentary, RUNNING THE SAHARA, executive produced by Matt Damon.
GOOBY is the charming story of Willy, a boy with an overactive imagination who is scared of everything until Gooby, his favorite childhood plaything, comes to life to teach Willy essential life lessons. GOOBY stars a who’s who of comedy talents, including Robbie Coltrane (Harry Potter films, James Bond films, Cracker), who plays the voice of Gooby, and Eugene Levy (Bringing Down the House, American Pie, Ghostbusters) who plays Willy’s flummoxed teacher. In addition, James David Elliot (J.A.G., The Rainbow Tribe), co-stars as Willy’s dad. “GOOBY is where Harvey meets Harry and the Hendersons,” said DuBow. “It’s not only an endearing film for children of all ages, but a film that will amuse and enlighten audiences as well – it has a tremendous heart.” Said Coneybeare, “It’s truly a dream come true for me to see this project come to life, and we have a distribution partner that’s a perfect fit.”
One of the other high-profile films acquired by PorchLight is the Tribeca Audience Award winner, the heart-rending documentary WAR CHILD, which tells the story of how Emmanuel Jal turned his life around after being a child soldier in the war in Sudan to become an internationally renowned hip hop recording artist. Jal will be performing at a private party in Cannes to celebrate the film’s international launch with PorchLight. DuBow brokered the deal with the film’s director and producer, Karim Chrobog.
DuBow brokered the deal for the inspirational documentary, RUNNING THE SAHARA with the film’s producers, Rick Eldridge and Jim Van Eerden. The film follows the trials and triumph of three long-distance runners as they traverse one of the most inhospitable landscapes to find out more about the world and themselves than they ever imagined. “It’s a joy to be associated with a film that moves so many people,” said DuBow. “To have Matt Damon involved and Wyclef Jean to compose and perform the film’s signature song is illustrative of the emotional scope of the film.”
“It’s great to celebrate my first year anniversary with PorchLight in Cannes with these three wonderful films added to our already great line-up in spacious new offices in the Lerins, and with a private party to honor our films,” said DuBow. “It’s a testament to the exponential growth of PorchLight over the last year, and very gratifying to be a part of the team that made it possible.”
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has also produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The Company is currently co-producing Animalia for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. Condor Releasing is the company’s newest worldwide distribution division and home entertainment label that will handle content in all media which falls outside the family entertainment profile. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
|
| PORCHLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT ACQUIRES ANIMA ESTUDIOS QUIRKY ANIMATED KIDS FILMS "WIZARDS & GIANTS" AND "IMAGINUM" |
June 1 2008
Cannes, France - April 2, 2006 - PorchLight Entertainment, a leading producer and distributor of animated series, movies and specials, has just completed negotiations with Mexico City′s highly recognized animation house, Anima Estudios to distribute its latest animated films, "Imaginum" and "Wizards and Giants" at this year′s MIP TV.
In making today′s announcement, Zac Reeder, PorchLight′s Head of Acquisitions said, "These are stand-out productions that can capture their audiences with unique storylines and strong character development among vivid and imaginative animated settings."
"We are excited to be working with such a prestigious animation house as Anima Estudios and are confident that this is just the beginning of what will be a long and lucrative relationship for both companies," added William Baumann, PorchLight′s COO. "They have a keen sense of what will work with the global audience and exceptional animation skills to bring it to the forefront."
"Imaginum" - 82 minutes
When goofball aliens (escapees from a galactic nuthouse) need a restroom break, they find Earth - the perfect planet to conquer. Of course, they don?t count on young Dante, a kid that figures out how to use one of their kooky devices and turn everything he comes in contact with into incredible living objects. With the help of his friends, the power of Dante?s imagination launches a looney battle for the future of the planet. PorchLight holds worldwide rights excluding Mexico and Internet.
"Wizards & Giants" - 84 minutes
When an evil Wizard named Titan Coldface is disqualified from the biggest magic tournament of the Magic Realm, he seeks revenge by hatching an elaborate plan to steal the magical powers from all the inhabitants. Three unlikely heroes?Giant (a ?vertically challenged? giant), Fury (a bad-tempered fairy who hasn?t got her wings) and Trafalgar (a little wizard who knows too much magic for his own good)?decide to stop Titan themselves. Their decision launches a wacky, but definitely magical, adventure. PorchLight holds worldwide broadcast rights excluding Latin America.
About Anima Estudios:
Anima Estudios is a pioneering animation production house based in Mexico City. Founded in 2002, Anima Estudios boasts top-level talent and has produced the feature-length films "Wizards and Giants" (Magos y Gigantes) and "Imaginum", as well as the animated TV series "Cascaritos", "Espinito" and "Poncho Football". The studio is currently in production on its third animated feature, "Macaw" and an animated series based on the famous long-running live action series, "El Chavo" created by Roberto Gomez Bola Chespirito.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children?s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has produced the Emmy Award-winning animated series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS, and the animated children′s series Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, as well as more than 30 live action and animated movies. PorchLight is currently producing Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia, Nickelodeon Australia and Disney Channel Italy, as well as a series of direct-to-videos for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company, among other productions. The company distributes a library of over 175 movies and over 500 episodes of children?s programs. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
For more information contact:
Georgia Scott
Global Strategies, Ink
(818) 432-1434
mktingmaven@att.net
William Baumann
PorchLight Entertainment
(310) 477-8400
wbaumann@porchlight.com
While at MIP TV, visit PorchLight at: R34.03
Market contact: Anja Bosch
Booth telephone: 04 9299 8804
|
| PorchLight Home Entertainment Announces PorchLight INSPIRE Label |
June 1 2008
LOS ANGELES — April 24, 2008 — For Immediate Release — PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) will launch a new label under the PHE umbrella, PorchLight INSPIRE, it was announced today by Gary Jones, president of PHE, and Bruce Johnson, CEO and co-president of PorchLight Entertainment.
Commented Jones, “Since our launch last summer, PorchLight Home Entertainment has already established a reputation for releasing the best in children’s and family programming on DVD. The PorchLight INSPIRE label will highlight programming that is inspirational, faith based and family friendly, with a prominent spiritual message.”
Added Johnson, “PorchLight INSPIRE reflects our ongoing commitment to making and distributing high quality, faith-based programs. We could not be more excited than to be launching this new label.”
The first title slated for release on the new label is Adventures From the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Faith, never before available on DVD. This popular and award-winning animated television series, which aired on PBS, was produced by PHE’s parent company PorchLight Entertainment, a leading producer and distributor of high-quality children’s and family entertainment.
Also, in first quarter 2009, PorchLight INSPIRE will launch the Christian version of Jay Jay the Jet Plane on DVD for the first time. The Christian series has been re-imagined and was also produced by PHE’s parent company PorchLight Entertainment. PorchLight developed and produced the original, secular version of the hugely popular PBS series.
Other titles on PorchLight INSPIRE will be announced soon.
Based on the #1 bestseller The Book of Virtues, by William J. Bennett, Adventures From the Book of Virtues enlightens, inspires and sparks the imagination of families everywhere, while illustrating a central theme through classic international heroes and stories. Programs illuminate the core virtues of honesty, compassion, responsibility, courage, self-discipline, work, friendship, loyalty, perseverance and faith. Stories are seen through the eyes of young Zach and Annie, who live in Spring Valley and deal with the same pressures and situations faced by kids everywhere.
Adventures From the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Faith includes two episodes.
In The Good Samaritan: A Story of Compassion, an immigrant family loses their home in a terrible fire. Zach decides there is nothing he can do to help, but Plato tells the classic Bible story of “The Good Samaritan” and Zach learns the real meaning of compassion. Also includes the Roman legend “Androcles and the Lion.” In Harriet Tubman: A Story of Faith, Annie’s elderly friend and neighbor dies suddenly and Annie questions the use of faith and the virtues it inspires. This leads Plato to tell the story of how American heroine Harriet Tubman’s faith inspired her to lead slaves through the underground railroad to Canada during the Civil War. Also includes the Bible story “Daniel in the Lion’s Den.”
Pre-order is July 9 and street date is August 12. Suggested retail price is $12.98. Running time is approximately 49 minutes. Catalog # is 1035.
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
In spring 2008, PHE launched the Porchlight INSPIRE label, featuring inspirational and faith-based children’s and family entertainment.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Contact:
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Vicki Greenleaf
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| The Lampies: Light Up Your Life (and Your Living Room) With ‘The Lampies!’ |
June 1 2008
LOS ANGELES — June 1, 2008 — For Immediate Release — What a bright idea! Light up your life (and your living room) with The Lampies, electrifying DVD June 24, from PorchLight Home Entertainment.
On every street corner in every town, there’s a lamp post. And in every lamp post, you’ll find the irrepressible and charming Lampies, who keep the world illuminated come what may. That usually involves them preventing the evil Roons from getting their hands on the lamps and plunging the world into darkness …
The Lampies: Dustywuppy — Episodes on this feature-length DVD include “Captain Who?,” “Dustywugg Space Marine,” “Walkabout,” “The Inspection,” “Flash By Name,” “Dustywuppy,” “Bird’s Nest Oops” and “A Bit of a Jam.”
The Lampies: Bikey — Episodes include “Bikey,” “Thunder and Frightening,” “Bouncer,” “Boris” and “Decoy.”
The Lampies is presented in full screen format, aspect ratio 4 x 3 (1.33:1).
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertain-ing. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
The Lampies: Dustywuppy
The Lampies: Bikey
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Genre: Children’s
Not Rated
Format: DVD Only
Running Time: The Lampies: Dustywuppy – Approx. 88 Minutes
The Lampies: Bikey – Approx. 55 Minutes
Suggested Retail Price: The Lampies: Dustywuppy – $14.98
The Lampies: Bikey – $9.98
Pre-Order Date: May 21, 2008
Street Date: June 24, 2008
Catalog #: The Lampies: Dustywuppy – #1051
The Lampies: Bikey – #1052
UPC Code: The Lampies: Dustywuppy – #810863010517
The Lampies: Bikey – #810863010524
Contacts:
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
Vicki Greenleaf — vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
For screeners or artwork, please call or e-mail:
Karen Brundage — karen@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| PORCHLIGHT PRESENTS LEADING BRANDS AT INTERNATIONAL LICENSING SHOW INCLUDING JAY JAY THE JET PLANE, FARMKIDS,GOFRETTE, GIRL AUTHORITY®, AND ADVENTURES FROM THE BOOK OF VIRTUES |
May 27 2008
Los Angeles, CA – May 27, 2008 – PorchLight Entertainment, recognized for its family-friendly properties, continues to expand its worldwide branding and licensing activities. PorchLight will be presenting the new animated children’s series FARMkids, and Gofrette, and the pop girl group Girl Authority, as well as the longstanding keystone brands Adventures From the Book of Virtues and Jay Jay The Jet Plane at the Licensing International Expo 2008.
FARMkids
Debuting at the International Licensing show is FARMkids, a wacky and entertaining take on City Slickers meets Old MacDonald. As well as being entertaining, FARMkids also contains positive themes and messages for children. Created by children′s educational expert, Scott Strachan, FARMkids (season one: 26 x 12) is about a quirky collection of pampered, petting-zoo animals who don′t have a clue how to survive in the country when they are unexpectedly relocated to Dude Ranch. FARMkids is licensed to Animania in the US, Disney Channel in Latin America, ABC Australia, and ITV in the United Kingdom among other leading networks worldwide. The Season 1 DVDs were released March 2008 by PorchLight Home Entertainment.
William Baumann, PorchLight′s President & COO said, "We′re thrilled to debut FARMkids at the Licensing Show. It′s a fabulously funny kid′s series with wonderful characters, clever story lines and state-of-the-art CGI animation. This series will definitely connect with kids and has incredible licensing potential."
GOFRETTE
Gofrette (52 x 12 minutes) features one highly enthusiastic, inquisitive, endlessly optimistic, somewhat eccentric and definitely happy cat, and his friends, Fudge (with “bad ear days”), Ellie Copter (a leggy bird with a propeller on her head), Red (a “talking” refrigerator) and many other highly unusual and colorful characters who set off into the land of Zanimo on an adventure that goes from one thing to another in the most unexpectedly silly and surprising fashion also teaches children that even when it seems that things haven’t gone exactly as planned, if you give it a chance, take another look . . . around the corner could be something even better! The series seen on CBC and Société Radio-Canada in Canada, is jointly produced by the award winning, Canadian-based Zoe Mae Productions and Subsequence Entertainment. Excluding Canada, PorchLight holds worldwide distribution and licensing and merchandising rights.
GIRL AUTHORITY
PorchLight will also be presenting Girl Authority, the tween girl group singing sensation that continues to make great inroads among tweens and parents alike. Girl Authority features nine multi-talented girls (ages 10-15) -- each with a different look and personality – all tied together with friendship, talent and optimism. This past year, Girl Authority toured nationally and recently appeared on The Saturday Early Show (CBS). Their self-titled debut album, released in April 2006 on Rounder Zoë Records, reached No. 5 on Billboard’s Top Heatseekers chart and No. 9 on Billboard’s Top Kid Audio chart. Road Trip, the group’s second album, released in March 2007, was awarded the iParenting media award.
PorchLight’s President & COO, William Baumann, said, “This is an exceptional property with distinct branding and marketing attributes. Word of mouth, their CD’s and special appearances have generated their popularity among tweens. Capitalizing on this growing fan base, we plan to bring Girl Authority to a broader audience with TV and DVD programming featuring the group. We’re excited to present Girl Authority to the licensing industry at the New York Licensing Show in June.”
ADVENTURES FROM THE BOOK OF VIRTUES
After the recent announcement of the DVD release of Adventures From the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Faith under PorchLight’s new PorchLight Inspire label, the classic property will be offered at the Licensing Show. Applauded by parents, educators and media organizations for its ability to communicate positive values and foster character education in a highly entertaining fashion, Adventures from the Book of Virtues has been endorsed by Action for Children’s Television, Viewers for Quality Television, Excellence in Media, the Family Channel/USA Today Seal of Approval, the National Parenting Publications Association, and National Catholic Association for Broadcasters and Communicators, among others.
JAY JAY THE JET PLANE
Lastly but never least, PorchLight will continue to focus on its flagship property, the award-winning preschool favorite, Jay Jay the Jet Plane. Jay Jay is currently seen on PBS and daily on the PBS KIDS Sprout network. Each Jay Jay episode includes valuable life lessons for young children. They learn important lessons about cooperation, teamwork, responsibility, and science and nature. Today, the Jay Jay brand is on shelves worldwide as DVD’s, apparel, toys, games, early reading and activity books to name a few.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has produced more than 30 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS, Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Contact:
Georgia Scott
Global Strategies, Ink
(818) 432-1434
georgia@theagency.tv
William Baumann
PorchLight Entertainment
(310) 477-8400
wbaumann@prochlight.com
|
| PORCHLIGHT AND CONDOR ACQUIRE THREE FILMS IN ADVANCE OF THE CANNES FILM FESTIVAL: WAR CHILD, THE TRIBECA AUDIENCE AWARD WINNER, RUNNING THE SAHARA, AND GOOBY |
May 6 2008
Los Angeles, May 6, 2008: PorchLight Entertainment continues to diversify its slate as it heads into Cannes. PorchLight’s President of Worldwide Distribution, Ken DuBow, announced today the acquisition of worldwide rights (ex-North America) to GOOBY, from director/writer/producer Wilson Coneybeare (Monster Warriors, Timeblazers), in a deal brokered by Ken DuBow and Coneybeare. PorchLight also acquired international rights to EMMANUEL JAL: WAR CHILD, which just won the prestigious Audience Award at the Tribeca Film Festival; and has acquired international rights to James Moll’s acclaimed documentary, RUNNING THE SAHARA, executive produced by Matt Damon.
GOOBY is the charming story of Willy, a boy with an overactive imagination who is scared of everything until Gooby, his favorite childhood plaything, comes to life to teach Willy essential life lessons. GOOBY stars a who’s who of comedy talents, including Robbie Coltrane (Harry Potter films, James Bond films, Cracker), who plays the voice of Gooby, and Eugene Levy (Bringing Down the House, American Pie, Ghostbusters) who plays Willy’s flummoxed teacher. In addition, James David Elliot (J.A.G., The Rainbow Tribe), co-stars as Willy’s dad. “GOOBY is where Harvey meets Harry and the Hendersons,” said DuBow. “It’s not only an endearing film for children of all ages, but a film that will amuse and enlighten audiences as well – it has a tremendous heart.” Said Coneybeare, “It’s truly a dream come true for me to see this project come to life, and we have a distribution partner that’s a perfect fit.”
One of the other high-profile films acquired by PorchLight is the Tribeca Audience Award winner, the heart-rending documentary WAR CHILD, which tells the story of how Emmanuel Jal turned his life around after being a child soldier in the war in Sudan to become an internationally renowned hip hop recording artist. Jal will be performing at a private party in Cannes to celebrate the film’s international launch with PorchLight. DuBow brokered the deal with the film’s director and producer, Karim Chrobog.
DuBow brokered the deal for the inspirational documentary, RUNNING THE SAHARA with the film’s producers, Rick Eldridge and Jim Van Eerden. The film follows the trials and triumph of three long-distance runners as they traverse one of the most inhospitable landscapes to find out more about the world and themselves than they ever imagined. “It’s a joy to be associated with a film that moves so many people,” said DuBow. “To have Matt Damon involved and Wyclef Jean to compose and perform the film’s signature song is illustrative of the emotional scope of the film.”
“It’s great to celebrate my first year anniversary with PorchLight in Cannes with these three wonderful films added to our already great line-up in spacious new offices in the Lerins, and with a private party to honor our films,” said DuBow. “It’s a testament to the exponential growth of PorchLight over the last year, and very gratifying to be a part of the team that made it possible.”
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has also produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The Company is currently co-producing Animalia for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. Condor Releasing is the company’s newest worldwide distribution division and home entertainment label that will handle content in all media which falls outside the family entertainment profile. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
|
| PorchLight Entertainment Promotes Shea Fontana to Manager, Children’s Programming |
May 5 2008
Los Angeles, CA May 5, 2008 – Shea Fontana has been named Manager, Children’s Programming, it was announced today by Bruce Johnson, company President and CEO. Her responsibilities will include the development of preschool programming, in addition to focusing on girl-related children’s program development and sales.
“Shea has been working on most of the animation projects that have come through PorchLight over the past two years, including “early stage” development on several properties as well as assisting in various stages of production. She has made a great contribution to our team,” said Johnson.
Ms. Fontana joined PorchLight in 2006 as an assistant. She quickly moved into the animation production process and has been deeply involved in the production of PorchLight’s slate of animated programming. During most of 2007, she served as Production Coordinator and ADR voice director on 40 half-hour episodes of ANIMALIA, the critically acclaimed CGI animated series playing on PBS, CBC and BBC. In addition to her work on ANIMALIA, she has been involved with THE SECRET SATURDAYS (Cartoon Network), TUTENTSTEIN (Discovery Kids) and LeapFrog’s A TAD OF CHRISTMAS CHEER (PorchLight Home Entertainment).
“Shea has excellent taste in material and has already made a great contribution to our overall development efforts,” added Fred Schaefer, PorchLight’s senior vice president, animation. “I look forward to working with her as she expands her areas of responsibility.”
Apart from PorchLight, Ms. Fontana’s industry experience includes producing a short film adaptation of the DEAD@17 comic book, writing for Sushi Pack (CBS), and production work for The Jim Henson Company, where she worked with the innovative Henson digital puppetry animation system.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multifaceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe; Animalia for PBSKIDS GO!; Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS KIDS; Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS KIDS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading educational toy company. The Company is currently producing Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD markets. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
For more information contact:
William Baumann
PorchLight Entertainment
310-477-8400
|
| ZakLand: The Shiny Surprise; Welcome to the Land of Music and Magic! |
May 1 2008
“ZakLand is a great place to send your kids. It is safe, fun and will teach them important lessons about life, the world and themselves. I recommend it!”
— Dr. Henry Cloud, author and clinical psychologist
LOS ANGELES — May 1, 2008 — For Immediate Release — Come along on a magical musical journey, experience the power of imagination and learn that anything is possible in ZakLand: The Shiny Surprise, trumpeting onto DVD May 20th from PorchLight Home Entertainment.
Welcome to ZakLand, a live action/animated world filled with music and imagination where anything is possible if you try hard and believe in yourself. Come along on the adventures of Zak and his friends—Marty the Bullfrog, Uncle Hank, The Can-Can Twins and kids just like you!
Grammy-nominated children’s entertainer Zak Morgan performs more than 200 U.S. concerts each year, with a unique combination of music, magic, comedy and puppetry that encourages children to read, imagine and believe in themselves. With an appeal to kids of all ages, Morgan’s trademark wordplay and child-friendly sophistication draw frequent comparisons to the legendary Shel Silverstein and Dr. Seuss.
In ZakLand: The Shiny Surprise, everyone works together to help save the day after Hank’s little brother Irwin eats King Shiny’s special birthday surprise.
ZakLand is presented in full frame letterbox with an aspect ratio of 1.78:1.
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
ZakLand: The Shiny Surprise
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Genre: Children’s, Ages 3-8
Not Rated
Format: DVD Only
Running Time: 51 Minutes
Suggested Retail Price: $14.98
Pre-Order Date: April 16, 2008
Street Date: May 20, 2008
Catalog #: 1049
UPC Code: #810863010494
Contacts:
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
Vicki Greenleaf — vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
For screeners or artwork, please call or e-mail:
Karen Brundage — karen@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| PorchLight Home Entertainment Acquires U.S. DVD Rights to Boowa & Kwala From Granada International |
April 30 2008
LOS ANGELES — April 30, 2008 — For Immediate Release — PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) has acquired the U.S. DVD distribution rights to Boowa & Kwala from Granada International it was announced today by Brenda Bisner, vice-president acquisitions, children’s programming, PHE.
Commented Bisner, “PorchLight Home Entertainment team is pleased to extend its relationship with Granada International and to bring the charming animation of Boowa & Kwala to preschoolers in the U.S.”
Said Carol Lee, vice president, home entertainment, North America for Granada,
“Boowa & Kwala is already a hit in Australia and Asia and we are happy to partner with PorchLight Home Entertainment for this program’s American debut.”
Welcome to the colorful world of Boowa & Kwala, a delightful new animated series for pre-schoolers that will help them develop their imagination through music and song. Based on the highly successful website www.boowakwala.com and directed by Xavier Picard (The Littlest Pet Shop), every show is a new adventure. Kids will laugh out loud at the antics of Boowa, who loves to laugh and sing, and the energetic Kwala, who is just a little bit cheeky.
Preorder is Sept. 10 and street date is Oct. 14. SRP is $14.98.
About Granada International:
Part of ITV Worldwide, Granada International is one of the largest and most successful commercial television distributors in Europe. A unique catalogue of programming encompasses the best in UK network production, international co-productions, formats, Hollywood TV movies, classic film libraries and high quality programming from the worldwide independent production sector. For further information on programming please visit the website www.granadamedia.com/international.
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
In spring 2008, PHE launched the Porchlight INSPIRE label, featuring inspirational and faith-based children’s and family entertainment.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Contact:
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Vicki Greenleaf
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| PorchLight Home Entertainment Announces PorchLight INSPIRE Label |
April 24 2008
LOS ANGELES — April 24, 2008 — For Immediate Release — PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) will launch a new label under the PHE umbrella, PorchLight INSPIRE, it was announced today by Gary Jones, president of PHE, and Bruce Johnson, CEO and co-president of PorchLight Entertainment.
Commented Jones, “Since our launch last summer, PorchLight Home Entertainment has already established a reputation for releasing the best in children’s and family programming on DVD. The PorchLight INSPIRE label will highlight programming that is inspirational, faith based and family friendly, with a prominent spiritual message.”
Added Johnson, “PorchLight INSPIRE reflects our ongoing commitment to making and distributing high quality, faith-based programs. We could not be more excited than to be launching this new label.”
The first title slated for release on the new label is Adventures From the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Faith, never before available on DVD. This popular and award-winning animated television series, which aired on PBS, was produced by PHE’s parent company PorchLight Entertainment, a leading producer and distributor of high-quality children’s and family entertainment.
Also, in first quarter 2009, PorchLight INSPIRE will launch the Christian version of Jay Jay the Jet Plane on DVD for the first time. The Christian series has been re-imagined and was also produced by PHE’s parent company PorchLight Entertainment. PorchLight developed and produced the original, secular version of the hugely popular PBS series.
Other titles on PorchLight INSPIRE will be announced soon.
Based on the #1 bestseller The Book of Virtues, by William J. Bennett, Adventures From the Book of Virtues enlightens, inspires and sparks the imagination of families everywhere, while illustrating a central theme through classic international heroes and stories. Programs illuminate the core virtues of honesty, compassion, responsibility, courage, self-discipline, work, friendship, loyalty, perseverance and faith. Stories are seen through the eyes of young Zach and Annie, who live in Spring Valley and deal with the same pressures and situations faced by kids everywhere.
Adventures From the Book of Virtues: Adventures in Faith includes two episodes.
In The Good Samaritan: A Story of Compassion, an immigrant family loses their home in a terrible fire. Zach decides there is nothing he can do to help, but Plato tells the classic Bible story of “The Good Samaritan” and Zach learns the real meaning of compassion. Also includes the Roman legend “Androcles and the Lion.” In Harriet Tubman: A Story of Faith, Annie’s elderly friend and neighbor dies suddenly and Annie questions the use of faith and the virtues it inspires. This leads Plato to tell the story of how American heroine Harriet Tubman’s faith inspired her to lead slaves through the underground railroad to Canada during the Civil War. Also includes the Bible story “Daniel in the Lion’s Den.”
Pre-order is July 9 and street date is August 12. Suggested retail price is $12.98. Running time is approximately 49 minutes. Catalog # is 1035.
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
In spring 2008, PHE launched the Porchlight INSPIRE label, featuring inspirational and faith-based children’s and family entertainment.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Contact:
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Vicki Greenleaf
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| PorchLight Home Entertainment Acquires U.S. DVD Rights 64 Zoo Lane From Millimages U.K. |
April 7 2008
LOS ANGELES — April 7, 2008 — For Immediate Release — PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) has acquired the U.S. DVD distribution rights to the award-winning television program 64 Zoo Lane from Millimages U.K., it was announced today by Brenda Bisner, vice-president acquisitions, children’s programming, PHE.
From the award-winning Belgium television producer and author An Vrombaut, 64 Zoo Lane currently airs on Nickelodeon Jr.’s Noggin network for preschoolers in the U.S. and the BBC in the U.K. The acquisition is part of an expanded and aggressive branding campaign in the U.S. that includes the April 28th release of six books from Hodder and Stoughton.
64 Zoo Lane follows the adventures of a little girl named Lucy who lives at 64 Zoo Lane, next door to a zoo. Every night, she climbs out of her window, slides down the long neck of Georgina the giraffe and listens to one of the animals at the zoo tell her a story. Georgina, Nelson the elephant, Zed the zebra, Tickles and Giggles the monkeys, Henrietta the hairy hippopotamus, Joey the kangaroo, Snowbert the polar bear and Kevin the crocodile entertain as children explore social and emotional issues (like responsibility, friendship, helping and caring) and learn about language and vocabulary.
64 Zoo Lane has a pre-order date of June 25 and a street date of July 29. Suggested retail price is $14.98.
64 Zoo Lane has won the 2002 British Animation Award for Best Pre-School Series and the 2000 Pulcinella Prize for Best Series for Children at the international television festival Cartoons on the Bay.
Commented Bisner, “This exceptional, award-winning programming is already a hit on Nick Jr.’s Noggin network and is indicative of PorchLight Home Entertainment’s expanded commitment to acquiring the best in branded television content. We are extremely pleased to join Millimages U.K. to make 64 Zoo Lane available for the first time on DVD in the U.S.”
Said Jonathan Peel, chairman of Millimages U.K., “Millimages U.K. is pleased to partner with PorchLight Home Entertainment as we continue to grow the audience for 64 Zoo Lane, already a hit on television, through the DVD marketplace and in other mediums.”
About Millimages U.K:
Millimages is one of the leading European audiovisual groups, as well as producing and cinema, video production, the production and distribution of documentary films, the production of advertising commercials and the exploitation of derived rights. Today, Millimages, Gedeon Programmes and Bac Films are leading brands for cinema and audiovisual professionals all over the world. For more information visit: www.millimages.com.
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Contact:
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Vicki Greenleaf
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| Between - Fear Is What Lies … Between |
April 1 2008
LOS ANGELES — April 1, 2008 — For Immediate Release — A mind-bending adventure that will leave you guessing until the very end, Between premieres on DVD
April 8 from PorchLight Home Entertainment.
Chicago-based lawyer Nadine (Poppy Montgomery, Without a Trace) learns her sister has gone missing in Tijuana, Mexico. Against the advice of her loving but unsupportive husband (Adam Kaufman), Nadine heads south of the border to search for her. Finding the local police to be of no help, she even begins to suspect that they may have something to hide.
Eventually, she convinces Detective Gustavo Campos (Jose Yenque) to become her ally.
Following a series of odd occurrences, including the suspicious arrival of her husband, Nadine finds herself going down a twisting path of mystery and intrigue where she must question exactly what is real, what is fantasy and what lies … Between.
Between is presented in widescreen with an aspect ratio of 16x9. Special features include director’s commentary and original trailer.
|
| Funky Valley - Come on Down … to the Funky Farm! |
April 1 2008
LOS ANGELES — April 1, 2008 — For Immediate Release — Welcome to the wackiest farmstead in the land, where all the animals run amok ’til … well, ’til the cows come home, of course! The hilarious, animated program for preschoolers, Funky Valley, stampedes onto DVD for the first time April 22 from Granada International and PorchLight Home Entertainment.
Funky Valley is a collection of delightfully funny fables for ages 2-5, as seen through the eyes of a madcap farmyard of odd, misfit animal characters who revel in their peculiarity. Too eccentric to fit in a regular farmyard, children love the wonderfully silly antics of Dippy, a dreamy cow; Clara, a busy hen; Porker, a sensible pig; Fleecie, a neurotic sheep; and Daphne, a bossy duck, as they are watched over by the parental figures of the sun and moon.
Funky Valley — In the series’ first seven wacky episodes, Dippy the cow wants to achieve the goal of jumping over the moon; Daphne the duck is mistaken for an alien; Hoot the owl hits his head and believes himself to be a world-famous ballerina; Clara the hen lays an egg that hatches out a baby crocodile; a classic tortoise-versus-hair race is challenged; Fleecie the sheep desperately needs a haircut; a swallow learns to fly for the first time; and more adventures. Episodes include: “Dippy Over the Moon,” “Fergus in the Well,” “Daphne and the Talking Hay Bale,” “Nutcracker Hoot,” “Amadeus the Wolf,” “Clara and the Egg,” “Shelly at the Races,” “Buster and the Sheep in the Sky,” “Porker’s Chop,” “Haircut for Fleecie,” “Stanley’s Christmas Crackers,” “Horatio and the Angry Apple Tree” and “Swallow’s Flying Lesson.”
Return to Funky Valley — In the second half of the first season (13 episodes), Angus the bull is mistaken for a ghost; Porker the pig gets the fame bug; Daphne’s birthday is forgotten; Gertrude the Goose gets a lesson in narcissism; Snap the crocodile attends his first day of school; the farmyard floods in an endless rain; Clara has a great business idea; Fergus the fox and Nanny the goat go on a treasure hunt; and more adventures. Episodes include: “The Real Angus,” “Doodle-Doo and the Sleepy Sun,” “Where’s Keith?,” “Batty in a Flap,” “Daphne the Grumpy Duck,” “Gertrude the Swan,” “Snap Goes to School,” “Tinker and the Rainy Day,” “Percy Peacock Shows Off,” “Clara’s Café,” “Fergus and the Treasure,” “Dippy and the Mud Hole” and “Daphne’s Special Friend.”
Funky Valley and Return to Funky Valley are presented in full screen with an aspect ration of 4:3.
About Granada International:
Part of ITV Worldwide, Granada International is one of the largest and most successful commercial television distributors in Europe. A unique catalogue of programming encompasses the best in UK network production, international co-productions, formats, Hollywood TV movies, classic film libraries and high quality programming from the worldwide independent production sector. For further information on programming please visit the website www.granadamedia.com/international.
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Funky Valley
Return to Funky Valley
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Genre: Children’s, Ages 2-5
Not Rated
Format: DVD Only
Running Time: Funky Valley – 65 Minutes
Return to Funky Valley – 65 Minutes
Suggested Retail Price: $14.98
Pre-Order Date: March 19, 2008
Street Date: April 22, 2008
Catalog #: Funky Valley – 1045
Return to Funky Valley – 1046
UPC Code: Funky Valley – 810863010456
Return to Funky Valley – 810863010463
Contacts:
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
Vicki Greenleaf — vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
For screeners or artwork, please call or e-mail:
Karen Brundage — karen@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| Grizzly Tales - Scarifying Tales for Tweeners that are Eerily Entertaining! |
April 1 2008
LOS ANGELES — April 1, 2008 — For Immediate Release — Looking for a thrill in your own living room? Grizzly Tales will make kids’ hair frizz with fear and their toes twist with terror when it comes to DVD for the first time April 22, from Granada International and PorchLight Home Entertainment.
For ages 6-12, Grizzly Tales is a multi-award winning, internationally acclaimed series, a collection of spine-chilling stories that make kids laugh while teaching life lessons of which even the naughtiest children will take note! Based on the hit books by English author Jamie Rix, Grizzly Tales grabs young imaginations as teddy bears take their glassy-eyed revenge on not-so-loving owners; constipated children learn the true value of nutrition thanks to the unfriendly bite of a fruit bat; a wasteful girl is recycled by Recyclops; and a gardener halts a young boy’s vandalism.
Grizzly Tales: A Tangled Web — In the series’ first seven ghoulishly gripping episodes, two spoiled brats encounter a nanny not afraid to bite back; a finicky young eater gets turned into pasta; a ghostly grandma pays a visit to her grandson; a chocoholic ingests a chocolate-covered fly and becomes one herself; a boy faces his terrific fear of the dark; a team of spiders haunt the tot who threw them in the garbage; and a clotheshorse faces her worst nightmare when all her frocks are shredded! Episodes include: “The New Nanny,” “Spaghetti Man,” “Grandmother’s Footsteps,” “Death by Chocolate,” “Wooden Hill,” “A Tangled Web” and “The Princess’s Clothes.”
Grizzly Tales: Dr. Moribundus — In the second half of the first season (six episodes), a rainforest gets revenge on the restaurant tycoon who cut it down; nasty children encounter an attitude-altering barber; a farmer gets the upper hand on some young apple thieves; a girl learns a ghostly history lesson; a naughty boy with a sweet tooth becomes a sweet shop’s mannequin; and a girl learns that it’s best not to fake being sick. Episodes include: “Burgerskip,” “The Barber of Civil,” “The Chipper Chums Go Scrumping,” “The History Lesson,” “Sweets” and “Doctor Moribundus.”
Grizzly Tales was named Best Children’s Series at the 2004 British Animation Awards; Best Series for Children (6-12) at the 2000 Cartoons on the Bay – Pulcinella; Best TV Series for Children at the 2000 Bradford Animation Festival; and received the Gold Award in the Children’s Animation Category at the 2000 New York Festivals. Grizzly Tales is presented in full frame with an aspect ratio of 4:3.
About Granada International:
Part of ITV Worldwide, Granada International is one of the largest and most successful commercial television distributors in Europe. A unique catalogue of programming encompasses the best in UK network production, international co-productions, formats, Hollywood TV movies, classic film libraries and high quality programming from the worldwide independent production sector. For further information on programming please visit the website
www.granadamedia.com/international.
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Grizzly Tales: A Tangled Web
Grizzly Tales: Dr. Moribundus
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Genre: Children’s
Not Rated
Format: DVD Only
Running Time: Grizzly Tales: A Tangled Web – 77 Minutes
Grizzly Tales: Dr. Moribundus – 66 Minutes
Suggested Retail Price: $14.98
Pre-Order Date: March 19, 2008
Street Date: April 22, 2008
Catalog #: Grizzly Tales: A Tangled Web – 1038
Grizzly Tales: Dr. Moribundus – 1039
UPC Code: Grizzly Tales: A Tangled Web – 810863010388
Grizzly Tales: Dr. Moribundus – 810863010395
Contacts:
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
Vicki Greenleaf — vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
For screeners or artwork, please call or e-mail:
Karen Brundage — karen@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| Travel With Kids: New York; Take a Bite Out of the Big Apple! |
April 1 2008
LOS ANGELES — April 1, 2008 — For Immediate Release — Continuing to make family vacations to exotic destinations both educational and entertaining, the award-winning Travel With Kids DVD series presents Travel With Kids: New York, arriving in stores April 8 from PorchLight Home Entertainment.
The Travel With Kids series, which has explored such exciting destinations as Hawaii, Mexico, the Caribbean and Paris, invites families to travel to faraway locales and learn about the customs of others without ever leaving home. A great resource for preparing for a family vacation by introducing children to local customs, food, and breath-taking scenery prior to departure or researching a school report, Travel With Kids has won acclaim from family adventurers nationwide!
Join the Roberts family once again as they explore the energetic metropolis New York City. Take in the incredible urban skyline from atop the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. Enjoy the beauty of Central Park by horse-drawn carriage. Watch the world come together at the United Nations. Visit the Natural History Museum, have dinner in Little Italy, take in a Broadway show and be wowed by the awesomeness of Times Square.
In Travel With Kids: New York, viewers of all ages will learn about the city’s history, culture and beauty in this innovative, engaging program which also features money-saving tips, topical pop-up facts, advice for traveling with children and fun segments filled with all things great about the city that never sleeps. So sit back, relax and be a part of New York, New York!
Travel With Kids: New York is presented in full frame with an aspect ratio of 4:3. Special features include a trip planner with expanded information and videos on activities, accommo-dations and transportation; family travel tips and resources; language tutorial; crafts; recipes; and a bloopers reel.
Other titles in the Travel With Kids DVD series include Paris; Mexico: Yucatan Mayan Riviera; Caribbean: Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands; Hawaii: Oahu; Hawaii: Maui & Molokai; Hawaii: Kauai; and Hawaii: The Big Island of Hawaii.
Coming Soon: London, England, Ireland, Scotland, Florida, Bahamas and Caribbean cruise.
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining.
Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Travel With Kids: New York
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Genre: Family/Travel
Not Rated
Format: DVD Only
Running Time: 43 Minutes (Plus Special Features)
Suggested Retail Price: $14.98
Street Date: April 8, 2008
Catalog #: 1053
UPC Code: #810863010531
For more information, screeners or artwork, please call or e-mail:
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
Karen Brundage — karen@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| Treasure Island Kids 2: The Monster of Treasure Island |
April 1 2008
LOS ANGELES — April 1, 2008 — For Immediate Release — Treasure Island’s latest inhabitants take on a Jurassic Park-meets-Chitty Chitty Bang Bang adventure in Treasure Island Kids 2: The Monster of Treasure Island, on DVD April 29 from PorchLight Home Entertainment.
Hollywood has come to Treasure Island’s exotic summer camp as kids from around the world participate in making their own movies. A misfit boy arrives to find the campers divided by a classic “boys versus girls” feud, but all are soon forced to put aside their gender differences and work together when a giant sea monster threatens the future of the camp and puts all their lives in danger.
Treasure Island Kids 2: The Monster of Treasure Island is presented in full frame with an aspect ratio of 4:3.
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertain-ing. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Treasure Island Kids 2: The Monster of Treasure Island
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Genre: Children’s
Not Rated
Format: DVD Only
Running Time: 81 Minutes
Suggested Retail Price: $14.98
Pre-Order Date: March 26, 2008
Street Date: April 29, 2008
Catalog #: 1050
UPC Code: 810863010500
Contacts:
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
Vicki Greenleaf — vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
For screeners or artwork, please call or e-mail:
Karen Brundage — karen@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| Trevor Romain: If You Don’t Take Care of Your Body, Where Else Are You Going to Live? |
April 1 2008
“The DVDs of the Trevor Romain Collection … focus on issues … in a kid-friendly way.”
— Child Magazine
“ … fast pace … fun!”
— Entertainment Weekly
“Humor rules …”
— Parenting Magazine
“ .. will send your child to the head of the class …”
— Parents Magazine
“[Romain’s] rapport with kids is stunning to watch.”
— Washington Post
LOS ANGELES — April 1, 2008 — For Immediate Release — The newest title from the multi-award-winning Trevor Romain DVD series, If You Don’t Take Care of Your Body, Where Else Are You Going to Live?, will be released April 29 from PorchLight Home Entertainment.
Trevor Romain is an international children’s advocate and entertainer who has worked with hundreds of thousands of children worldwide to promote developmental wellness. Romain advises kids (and parents) on social and emotional fitness for children, dealing with things like homework, cliques, bullies, divorce, grief, fear, nutrition and exercise.
Renowned for the special blend of gentle humor and character-building messages captured in his DVD series, Romain captivates kids with a combination of animation and live-action, teaching powerful messages that prepare them for happy and successful lives. Romain is committed to speaking to kids in their own language and empowering families to talk about life’s tough situations in an honest and caring way.
In Trevor Romain: If You Don’t Take Care of Your Body, Where Else Are You Going to Live?, Coach Romain issues a 30-day fitness challenge to Jack, Skye and Darryl after they are defeated at the field day games. During the challenge, they learn that physical activity and healthy eating habits are not only good for you but fun as well!
Trevor Romain: If You Don’t Take Care of Your Body, Where Else Are You Going to Live? is presented in full frame with an aspect ratio of 4:3. Special features include Spanish subtitles; “Trevor Live on Health” featurette; “Meet Trevor,” an interview with Trevor Romain; and “Move Everybody” music and karaoke videos.
Other titles available in the Trevor Romain DVD series include: Cliques, Phonies & Other Baloney; Taking the “Duh” Out of Divorce; What on Earth Do You Do When Someone Dies?; Bullies Are a Pain in the Brain; Facing Fear Without Freaking Out; and How to Do Homework Without Throwing Up.
The Trevor Romain series has received numerous honors including 2006 Outstanding Product Award from iParenting Media Awards (Facing Fear Without Freaking Out, How to Do Homework Without Throwing Up); 2005 Kids First! Best Independent Series for Ages 5-8 (The Trevor Romain Collection); 2206 Oppenheim Toy Portfolio Gold DVD Award (What on Earth Do You Do When Someone Dies?), 2005 Parents’ Choice Award – Gold Award (What on Earth Do You Do When Someone Dies?), the 2004 Telly Award for Best Animation and Best Original Score (What on Earth Do You Do When Someone Dies?); and Kids First! Endorsements on all previous titles.
About Trevor Romain:
The Trevor Romain Company is a multimedia education company that creates, produces and distributes innovative, inspiring and humorous content to promote self-confidence and academic achievement through social and emotional learning. Our materials have been designed to help children become socially and emotionally fit. By using imagination, animation, humor, great music and exciting live-action cinematography, we speak to kids in their own language.
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Trevor Romain: If You Don’t Take Care of Your Body, Where Else Are You Going to Live?
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Genre: Children’s, Ages 6 and Up
Not Rated
Format: DVD Only
Running Time: Approx. 30 Minutes (Plus Special Features)
Suggested Retail Price: $14.98
Pre-Order Date: March 26, 2008
Street Date: April 29, 2008
Catalog #: 1022
UPC Code: 810863010227
Contacts:
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
Vicki Greenleaf — vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
For screeners or artwork, please call or e-mail:
Karen Brundage — karen@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| PorchLight Entertainment Promotes Gary Jones to President of PorchLight Home Entertainment |
March 18 2008
LOS ANGELES — March 18, 2008 — For Immediate Release — PorchLight Entertainment, Emmy-award-winning producer and worldwide distributor of quality family programming, announced today that it is promoting Gary Jones to president of PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE).
Jones joined PorchLight as a senior vice president in early 2007 to oversee the launch of a home entertainment label for the company. Overseeing acquisitions, sales, marketing, and operations, Jones has built the PHE label from the ground up. During its first year of operations, the company has enjoyed numerous hits with such award-winning titles as LeapFrogs: A Tad of Christmas Cheer, the Wheels on the Bus series, the Travel With Kids series and the FARMkids series, among others quality programming.
Commented Bruce Johnson, president and CEO of PorchLight, “Growing our business into the home entertainment marketplace was a logical plan of growth, based on a decade-long history and a successful foundation in providing quality family fare for feature films and television. Gary has done a superb job, seamlessly introducing our company into that arena, assembling a top-notch team and releasing a strong slate of programming.”
Added William Baumann, president and COO of PorchLight, “Gary Jones has proven to be the ideal choice to lead our home entertainment division. We congratulate him on a job well done and look forward to continued growth and a long and prosperous relationship.”
Prior to joining the PorchLight team, Jones, a longstanding veteran in the home entertainment industry, held executive posts at New Concorde, Trimark and Republic Pictures.
Said Jones, “It has been an exciting year. PorchLight Entertainment’s standing in the industry allowed me to assemble a strong slate of product from day one and enabled me to undertake an aggressive plan of growth immediately. The coming year promises to be even more exciting as PHE releases stellar titles now appearing on television , such as Loopdidoo, 64 Zoo Lane and Animalia and acclaimed series such as Adventures from the Book of Virtues among other titles to be announced soon.”
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining.
Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Contacts:
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
Vicki Greenleaf— Vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
Karen Brundage — karen@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| PorchLight Home Entertainment Hires Charles Brunotto as Director of Operations & Appoints Ashley Marcella as Marketing Manager |
March 4 2008
LOS ANGELES — March 4, 2008 — For Immediate Release — Charles Brunotto has joined PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) as director of operations and Ashley Marcella has been appointed marketing manager, it was announced today by Gary Jones, senior VP of PHE.
Brunotto has worked in the home entertainment business for 20 years, most recently spending two years at Sony Pictures Entertainment in the production services group. Prior to that, he served as operations manager for Paramount Home Entertainment; director of operations for Roger Corman’s New Concorde Home Entertainment; and customer service manager for Trimark Home Video/Lion’s Gate Films. He began his career at Show Industries (the parent of the now defunct Music Plus Stores) as a video buyer.
Marcella, who joined PorchLight in August 2007, has previously overseen operations and marketing, but will now be focused on marketing. Prior to joining PorchLight, Marcella was a retail marketing manager for Almighty Retail/ISIS Listening Stations, working with such clients as Capitol Music Group/EMI, Warner Music Group, Welk Music Group, Universal Music Group and Image Entertainment. Prior to that, she was a marketing/sales consultant for SideChoRecords/Playback Entertainment. She has also done work as a field marketing representative for Universal Buzz Intelligence.
Commented Jones, “Charles brings a vast knowledge of operational skills and experience to PorchLight and we look forward to his contributions as we continue our strategically aggressive plan of growth in 2008. Ashley’s contributions have already been instrumental in achieving rapid success since our launch in early 2007.”
Said Brunotto, “I am very excited to be part of a young and exciting home entertainment division of an experienced company that′s been in business as a producer/distributor for over 12 years.”
Added Marcella, “It has been a tremendous experience being part of the launch of PorchLight’s home entertainment division and I look forward to the future as we continue to grow our team and our business.”
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Contact:
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
Karen Brundage — karen@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| FARMkids - Not Your Average Dude Ranch! |
March 1 2008
LOS ANGELES — March 1, 2008 — For Immediate Release — Moooving in from the land Down Under to tickle your kid’s funny bone is FARMkids, the delightful, animated children’s series coming to DVD March 18 from PorchLight Home Entertainment.
In the tradition of Over the Hedge and Barnyard, the FARMkids concept is based around the irony of farm animals who know nothing about living in the country. They are a bunch of fastlane pampered city animals who live a star-studded life in a popular nursery petting zoo, but their lives take a funny, unexpected turn when they suddenly get relocated to a rustic country dude ranch.
Children ages 6-11 will enjoy the zany antics of quirky, diverse characters like Poppit, the do-it-yourself pig; A-list superstar Doogie the dog; Rod, a rat which a perfectionism complex; sports fanatic Dumpster the bull; MooLoo, a cow who loves all things girly; techno wiz Buster the horse; Frizz, a hip-hopping African American sheep; free-spirited Punky, the Latino alpaca; Splat, the red neck cat; Carlos, an international fugitive toad; and other fun characters!
FARMkids: Chaos in the Country — In seven fun-filled episodes from the first season of FARMkids, Dumpster needs a bath; Doogie wants to be a hero; Buster and Drumstick try to modernize the farm; MooLoo is the victim of a thief and Doogie and Buster play detective; giant alien tomatoes attack earth (or so they think); Dumpster eats radioactive trash, which gives him super-strength gas; and the gang forgets MooLoo’s birthday. Episodes include: “Fresh Country Air,” “The K9 Factor,” “Face Off,” “Law & Disorder,” “The Giant Alien Tomato Attack,” “Small Gaseous Planet” and “Moo Loo’s Big Day.”
FARMkids: Hair, Wool, Feathers and Fur — In the second half of the first season of FARMkids (six episodes), Poppit finds an old TV, turning the FARMkids into couch potatoes; Bean runs away; Poppit grows a super pumpkin for a contest; miserable, grumpy Splat listens to a self-help tape and wakes up a new person; Doogie and Dumpster go fishing; and the FARMkids go camping. Episodes include: “Bad TV,” “Bean and Gone,” “Little Farm of Horrors,” “Splat is Back,” “The Old Rooster and the Sea” and “The Legend of One Eyed Jack.”
FARMkids received the award for Best Animated TV Series at the 2007 Australian Effects & Animation Festival in Sydney.
FARMkids is presented in full frame with an aspect ratio of 4:3.
About FARMkids Pty Ltd:
FARMkids is a privately funded, independent animation and creative studio based in Brisbane, Australia. The FARMkids production house specializes in leading edge 3D CGI animation for children and recently won the Best Animated TV Series at the prestigious Australian Effects and Animation Festival. With its first season of the FARMkids television show nearing completion, the FARMkids team is now working on season two and the FARMkids movie special, planned for release in 2010.
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
FARMkids: Chaos in the Country
FARMkids: Hair, Wool, Feathers and Fur
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Genre: Children’s
Not Rated
Format: DVD Only
Running Time: FARMkids: Chaos in the Country – 84 Minutes (Plus Special Features)
FARMkids: Hair, Wool, Feathers and Fur – 72 Minutes (Plus Special Features)
Suggested Retail Price: $14.98 Each
Pre-Order Date: February 13, 2008
Street Date: March 18, 2008
Catalog #: FARMkids: Chaos in the Country – #1029
FARMkids: Hair, Wool, Feathers and Fur – #1030
UPC Code: FARMkids: Chaos in the Country – 810863010296
FARMkids: Hair, Wool, Feathers and Fur – 810863010302
For more information, screeners or artwork, please call or e-mail:
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
Karen Brundage — karen@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| PorchLight Home Entertainment Acquires U.S. DVD Rights to ZakLand From Tiodnaci Productions |
February 25 2008
LOS ANGELES — Feb. 25, 2008 — For Immediate Release — PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) has acquired the U.S. DVD distribution rights to ZakLand from Tiodnaci Productions, it was announced today by Brenda Bisner, vice-president acquisitions, children’s programming, PHE.
Grammy-nominated children’s entertainer Zak Morgan performs more than 200 U.S. concerts each year, with a unique combination of music, magic, comedy and puppetry that encourages children to read, imagine and believe in themselves. With an appeal to kids of all ages, Morgan’s trademark wordplay and child-friendly sophistication draw frequent comparisons to the legendary Shel Silverstein and Dr. Seuss.
Welcome to ZakLand, a live action/animated world filled with music and imagination where anything is possible if you try hard and believe in yourself. Come along on the adventures of Zak and his friends—Marty the Bullfrog, Uncle Hank, The Can-Can Twins and kids just like you!
Commented Bisner, “Zak Morgan’s blend of original music, stand-up comedy and theatre combine to create a unique, charming and entertaining show for kids. PorchLight is proud to bring this hugely successful entertainer to DVD for the first time ever.”
Said Morgan, “With ZakLand, we wanted to create a safe, fun world that respects the intelligence of children and encourages them to imagine and realize they are capable of doing extraordinary things. PorchLight’s stellar reputation and its focus on smart and wholesome content for children makes it the perfect fit for ZakLand. We are thrilled about our partnership.”
The initial release in this series for children ages 3-8, ZakLand: The Shiny Surprise, has a pre-order date of April 16 and a street date of May 20. Suggested retail price is $14.98. Running time is approximately 51 minutes.
Directed, co-produced and co-written with Morgan by award-winning Hollywood director Jay Silverman at his state-of-the-art facility, Silverman Productions, the video is a wonderful, colorful combination of live action, CG animation and puppetry. Kevin Morrison, COO of Family Communications, Inc. (Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood) writes, “I haven’t seen a better music program for preschoolers since Music Pizza by the late (and great) Shari Lewis.”
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Contacts:
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Vicki Greenleaf
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
Zak Morgan Entertainment Group
Janell Barrett
Harlot Unlimited — 310-859-8870
janell@harlotunlimited.com
|
| PorchLight Home Entertainment Acquires U.S. DVD Rights to Loopdidoo From Cake Distribution |
February 4 2008
LOS ANGELES — Feb. 4, 2008 — For Immediate Release — PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) has acquired U.S. distribution rights for DVD from Cake Distribution to the children’s program Loopdidoo, it was announced today by Brenda Bisner, vice-president acquisitions, children’s programming, PorchLight Entertainment.
Based upon the popular comic books Grabouillon by Alexis Nesme, Loopdidoo, an animated program for children ages three to five, is scheduled to begin airing on U.S. television in spring 2008 on Animania, the children’s channel of VOOM HD Networks.
In Loopdidoo, a goofy dog named Loopdidoo and his five-year-old owner and best friend, Petunia, find everyday life to be just one big adventure. Seemingly harmless situations soon turn into breakneck adventures, especially when Loopdidoo throws his well meant enthusiasm in the balance. Loopdidoo is full of loopiness, laughter and little life lessons!
Commented Bisner, “The animated Loopdidoo program is as charming and whimsical as its name. Already a hit in Europe, we feel the appeal for preschoolers will be extremely strong here in the U.S. as well.” Said Edward Galton, managing director of Cake, “As we represent worldwide rights for Loopdidoo, we are extremely pleased to partner with a company of the stature of PorchLight Home Entertainment in the U.S. for DVD distribution.”
About Cake Distribution:
Set up in 2006, Cake Distribution is a London based boutique distributor which is rapidly establishing itself as a key player in the animation and family entertainment market. Cake Distribution handles worldwide distribution for a slate of quality properties including Skunk Fu!, King Arthur’s Disasters, Edgar & Ellen, Loopdidoo, Total Drama Island, Tiny Planets and the Scholastic catalogue for Europe only. www.cakedistribution.com
Cake Entertainment is a small media holding, currently consisting of Cake Distribution and Cake Productions. Cake Entertainment strives to develop, produce, commercially position and manage international IP propositions for the children’s and family market.
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among
the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer;
The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Contact:
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Vicki Greenleaf
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| Darkon - Everybody Wants to be a Hero! |
February 1 2008
“Profound.”
— Chicago Tribune
“A look at the bizarro world of a group of fantasy role-players.”
— New York Magazine
“A chronicle of true heroism.”
— New York Sun
“… clear-eyed and oddly touching …”
— Variety
LOS ANGELES — Feb. 1, 2008 — For Immediate Release — Darkon, a critically acclaimed, award-winning theatrical documentary delving into the secretive American subculture of full-contact medieval fantasy wargaming, crusades onto DVD Feb. 26 from PorchLight Home Entertainment.
A New York Times “Critics’ Pick” when it was released theatrically in summer/fall 2007, Darkon also had a world television premiere Nov. 19 on IFC.
Insightful, moving and often funny, Darkon explores a unique realm within the extraordinary worldwide phenomenon of live-action role playing (LARP), following the real-life adventures of an unusual group of weekend “warrior knights.”
Modern-day Baltimore is the live-action battle field of these fantasy role-playing gamers, a city re-imagined as a make-believe medieval world named Darkon. It is a time of unrest in the realm, as Bannor of Laconia attempts to bring Keldar, leader of the Mordomian Empire, before a war crimes tribunal.
Inspired by such epics as King Arthur, Lord of the Rings and Conan the Barbarian, Darkon gatherings combine historical reenactments with lavish storylines. Fully costumed gamers create alter-egos with rich emotional, psychological and social lives. Camping out, they stage court intrigue, as well as panoramic battle scenarios involving competitive strategies, convincingly real props and full-contact “combat.”
Directors Andrew Neel and Luke Meyer put three years into the making of Darkon, first gaining the trust of their subjects, then tackling the challenge of capturing their epic fantasy world with aerial and crane shots. Darkon enters the subjective imaginations of its participants and celebrates the inner-workings of a culture that lies just beneath the surface of everyday American life … where everyone wants to be a hero.
Darkon is presented in widescreen with an aspect ratio of 16 x 9. Special features include directors’ commentary; commentary by Darkon role players Skip Lipman and Kenyon Wells; outtakes and deleted scenes; original theatrical trailer.
Darkon won the Audience Awards at the 2006 SXSW Film Festival and was an Official Selection at 17 other film festivals, including: Hot Docs; Maryland Film Festival; SilverDocs; Los Angeles Film Festival; BritDoc; Melbourne Film Festival; Sidewalk; Leeds Film Festival; Camden Film Festival; DocNZ; Woodstock Film Festival; Boston Fantastic; Jerusalem; Santa Fe Film Festival; Sarasota Film Festival; Festival Nouveau Cinema and the Williamsburg Screening Series.
For more information on this film, visit: www.darkonthemovie.com.
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company, including LeapFrog′s A Tad of Christmas Cheer. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Darkon
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Genre: Documentary/Fantasy
Not Rated
Format: DVD Only
Running Time: Approx. 90 Minutes (Plus Special Features)
Suggested Retail Price: $26.98
Pre-Order Date: January 23, 2008
Street Date: February 26, 2008
Catalog #: 1020
UPC Code: #810863010203
Contacts:
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
Vicki Greenleaf — vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
For screeners or artwork, please call or e-mail:
Karen Brundage — karen@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| The Little Playdates Series - Award-Winning DVD Series Helps Kids Learn by Example: Kindness, Sharing & How to Develop New Friendships |
February 1 2008
“We were so impressed, that Disney just might feel a little competition … It’s that good.”
— Jodie Lynn, Founder of the Adding Wisdom Awards
“Winner of the 2007 DVD of the Year Award.”
— Creative Child magazine
LOS ANGELES — Feb. 1, 2008 — For Immediate Release — Little Playdates, an award-winning and captivating DVD series for young children focusing on positive social and emotional growth through child-to-child interaction and play, is available in stores nationwide Feb. 26 from PorchLight Home Entertainment.
Created by a husband and wife team and endorsed by child psychologists, Little
Playdates – for children from birth to three years – provides a unique experience for children in which they can interact and learn in a wonderfully vivid live-action experience.
Developed from a child’s perspective, the Little Playdates DVD series is a visually stimulating experience that will delight your child as they explore first hand creatures from land and sea. The combination of real-world images, music and wholesome fun both entertains and encourages a child’s positive social and emotional development; learning kindness, sharing and developing new friendships.
Little Playdates is a fun and uplifting learning experience for all kids and is an out-standing tool for children with developmental abilities, endorsed by the president of the National Autism Association.
Available at a new low price of just $9.98 is the popular DVD Little Playdates: Little Friends. Interact in fun and positive playdates with new friends, all learning, sharing and growing together. Whether in the playroom, at the park or playing with pets, children will learn important lessons for social interaction.
Plus two all-new DVDs at $14.98 each:
In Little Playdates: Little Adventurers, join other children as they learn kindness, sharing and friendship at museums, floral gardens, on a fire truck and more, all set to an upbeat soundtrack that will really get kids moving!
In Little Playdates: Critter Friends, explore and interact with creatures from land and sea in a unique animal-filled experience that encourages kindness to animals as well as to each other. Watch kids coo, smile, point, laugh, wiggle and dance as they relate to other children.
Buy all three DVDs in a special box set for $29.98.
Little Adventurers and Critter Friends are presented in widescreen with an aspect ratio of 16 x 9. Little Friends is presented in Full screen, aspect ratio 4 x 3. Special features on all three DVDs include the trademarked “Layer of Learning,” which teaches social-building words and phrases; and repeat play mode. Also on Little Adventurers and Critter Friends is a behind-the-scenes slide show and bonus blooper reel.
Little Playdates has received numerous honors including the 2006 and 2007 iParenting’s Outstanding Products Award; the 2006 and 2007 Dove Seal of Approval; 2007 Dr. Toy’s Best Products (Little Adventurers); Creative Child magazine’s 2007 “DVD of the Year” award (Little Friends); 2007 Parent to Parent “Adding Wisdom Award” (Little Adventurers); and was included in Parenting magazine’s 2007 “Baby Must Haves Book” (Little Adventurers).
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
# # #
Little Playdates: Little Friends
Little Playdates: Little Adventurers
Little Playdates: Critter Friends
Little Playdates 3-DVD Box Set
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Genre: Children’s
Not Rated
Format: DVD Only
Running Time: Approx. 30 Minutes Each (Plus Special Features)
Suggested Retail Price: Little Playdates: Little Friends – $9.98
Little Playdates: Little Adventurers – $14.98
Little Playdates: Critter Friends – $14.98
Little Playdates 3-DVD Box Set – $29.98
Pre-Order Date: January 23, 2008
Street Date: February 26, 2008
Catalog #: Little Playdates: Little Friends – #1016
Little Playdates: Little Adventurers – #1017
Little Playdates: Critter Friends – #1018
Little Playdates 3-DVD Box Set – #1019
UPC Code: Little Playdates: Little Friends – 810863010166
Little Playdates: Little Adventurers – 810863010173
Little Playdates: Critter Friends – 810863010180
Little Playdates: Box Set – 810863010197
Contacts:
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
Vicki Greenleaf — vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
For screeners or artwork, please call or e-mail:
Karen Brundage — karen@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| Travel With Kids: Paris: Explore the City of Lights the Family Way! |
February 1 2008
LOS ANGELES — Feb. 1, 2008 — For Immediate Release — The award-winning Travel With Kids DVD series, which makes family vacations to exotic destinations both educational and entertaining, presents Travel With Kids: Paris, arriving in stores Feb. 26 from PorchLight Home Entertainment.
Now families can travel to faraway locales and learn about the customs of others without ever leaving home. A great resource for preparing for a family vacation by introducing children to local customs, food, and breath-taking scenery prior to departure, or researching a school report, The Travel With Kids DVD series has won acclaim from family adventurers nationwide!
Join the Roberts family once again as they uncover the family-friendly side of Paris, France. Visit the world-famous Eiffel Tower, Louvre museum and Notre Dame Cathedral. Explore the city’s underworld on the Paris Sewer Tour and take a boat ride down the Seine River. Enjoy crepes with the locals, ride the subways and bid Mickey and Minnie bon jour at the Disneyland Resort Paris.
In Travel With Kids: Paris, viewers of all ages will learn about the city’s history, culture and beauty in this innovative, engaging program which also features money-saving tips, topical pop-up facts, advice for traveling with children and fun segments filled with all things great about the City of Lights. So sit back, relax and bon voyage!
Travel With Kids: Paris is presented in widescreen with an aspect ratio of 16 x 9. Special features include trip planner with expanded information and videos on activities, accommodation and transportation; family travel tips and resources; language tutorial; crafts; recipes; and a bloopers reel.
Other titles in the Travel With Kids DVD series include Mexico: Yucatan Mayan Riviera, Caribbean: Puerto Rico & Virgin Islands, Hawaii: Oahu; Hawaii: Maui & Molokai, Hawaii: Kauai and Hawaii: The Big Isand of Hawaii (See attached descriptions).
Coming Soon: New York, London, England, Ireland, Scotland, Florida, Bahamas and Caribbean Cruise.
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Travel With Kids: Paris
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Genre: Family/Travel
Not Rated
Format: DVD Only
Running Time: 52 Minutes (Plus Special Features)
Suggested Retail Price: $14.98
Pre-Order Date: January 23, 2008
Street Date: February 26, 2008
Catalog #: 1021
UPC Code: #810863010210
For more information, screeners or artwork, please call or e-mail:
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
Karen Brundage — karen@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| PorchLight Home Entertainment Acquires U.S. DVD Rights for Three Popular Children’s Series From Granada International |
January 15 2008
LOS ANGELES — Jan. 15, 2008 — For Immediate Release — PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) has acquired exclusive U.S. distribution rights for DVD to three popular, animated children’s television series from Granada International, it was announced today by Brenda Bisner, vice-president acquisitions, children’s programming, PorchLight Entertainment.
Acquired by PHE are three animated series, Grizzly Tales for Gruesome Kids, for children ages 6-12; and Funky Valley and Funky Town, both for ages 4-6.
Commented Bisner, “The PorchLight Home Entertainment team is truly excited to bring this popular and unique children’s programming to DVD for the first time in the U.S. market-place. We look forward to a long and successful relationship with Granada International.”
Said Carol Lee, vice president, home entertainment, North America for Granada, “We are happy to partner with PorchLight Home Entertainment to release these much loved programs in the U.S. I believe they will be as popular here as they are in other countries.”
Grizzly Tales is a compendium of spine-chilling stories which serve as cautionary tales to Grizzly Tales for Gruesome Kids, for ages 6-12, is a multi-award winning, internationally acclaimed series, a collection of spine-chilling tales that make kids laugh while teaching life lessons of which even the naughtiest children will take note! Based on the hit books by English author Jamie Rix, Grizzly Tales grabs young imaginations as Teddy bears take their glassy-eyed revenge on not-so-loving owners; constipated children learn the true value of nutrition thanks to the unfriendly bite of a fruit bat; a wasteful girl is recycled by Recyclops; and a gardener halts a young boy’s vandalism.
Funky Valley is a collection of delightfully funny fables for ages 4-6, as seen through the eyes of a madcap farmyard of odd, misfit animal characters who revel in their peculiarity. Children love the wonderfully silly antics of Dippy, a dreamy cow; Clara, a busy hen; Porker, a sensible pig; Fleecie, a neurotic sheep; and Daphne, a bossy duck.
In Funky Town, for ages 4-6, two much-loved friends from Funky Valley are at the heart of the action: Clara the chicken and Dippy the accident-prone cow are now running a laid-back milk bar in town. In each episode, a new customer or one of the café regulars – including Francis the drake, Pricilla the croc, Chipolata the pig and the loveable villain Norris the rat – has a problem to solve with the help of Amadeus, a wise old wolf. From the creators of Funky Valley.
About Granada International:
Part of ITV Worldwide, Granada International is one of the largest and most successful commercial television distributors in Europe. A unique catalogue of programming encompasses the best in UK network production, international co-productions, formats, Hollywood TV movies, classic film libraries and high quality programming from the worldwide independent production sector. For further information on programming please visit the website www.granadamedia.com/international
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Contact:
Vicki Greenleaf
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| PorchLight Home Entertainment Hires Kathy Gilbert as Director of Sales |
January 14 2008
LOS ANGELES — Jan. 14, 2008 — For Immediate Release — Kathy Gilbert has joined PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) as director of sales, southern region, it was announced today by Gary Jones, senior VP of PHE.
Gilbert’s territory includes Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Texas. She will hold direct responsibility for such accounts as Blockbuster and Ingram.
Gilbert, who resides in Tennessee, has more than 20 years of industry experience as a regional sales manager in the southern and south central markets. Prior to joining PHE, she spent four years with Koch Entertainment. She has held similar positions with Fox Lorber, Winstar Home Entertainment, Wellspring Entertainment, Republic Pictures, Academy Entertainment, New Horizons Home Video, MGM-UA Home Video and Media Home Entertainment.
Commented Jones, “As we launch PorchLight Home Entertainment and a busy slate of titles in 2008, I welcome the relationships and breadth of expertise that Kathy brings to our sales team. We look forward to Kathy’s contributions.”
Added Gilbert, “I am excited about joining PorchLight Home Entertainment and look forward to representing the type of quality family and children’s entertainment they release on DVD.”
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Contacts:
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
Karen Brundage — karen@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| The Who’s Roger Daltrey & Friends Have a ‘Doggone’ Good Time |
January 1 2008
“Highly entertaining …”
— EdutainingKids.com
LOS ANGELES — Jan. 1, 2008 — Argon, Mango, Papaya, Coco and all their friends are back for a brand new musical adventure aboard the jolly yellow bus in The Wheels on the Bus: Mango’s Big Dog Parade, the third release in the award-winning children’s series, unleashing on DVD Jan. 22, from PorchLight Home Entertainment.
Recommended for children ages 1-5, The Wheels on the Bus series teaches early socialization skills to children. Delightfully combining vivid computer animation, live-action and a cast of adorable children and puppets, each DVD focuses on themes that teach children basic skills of cooperation, good behavior and manners that will last a lifetime.
In the series, Argon the dragon bus driver (voiced and sung by Roger Daltrey, The Who) chimes in
on a variety of educational and entertaining subjects as he takes his friends – a colorful collection of characters that includes Coco, Mango the Monkey and Papaya the Toucan – on their jovial adventures.
In The Wheels on the Bus: Mango’s Big Dog Parade, Argon helps his friends learn the importance of sharing, taking turns and getting along. They also learn The Fairies’ Golden Rule: If you are nice to others, then they will be nice to you. On their trip, they visit the Jungle Bug Adventure, where they see many different and unusual insects, and stop at a garage to give the bus a peppy, song-filled tune-up.
Soon they encounter Woof, a loveable dog who has procrastinated (much to his mother’s chagrin) and missed his ride to the Big Dog Parade and Canine Festival, an annual fundraising event benefiting the Big Dog Foundation, which raises money for worthy charities that help dogs, children and dogs that help people. The gang gives Woof a ride but take a wrong turn and end up lost. Fortunately, a group of friendly fairies get them back on track and they make it to the Festival just in time to join the parade.
A doggone good time is had by all in this charming and entertaining adventure that children will enjoy over and over!
The Wheels on the Bus: Mango’s Big Dog Parade, which received the iParenting Media Award for “Best Products of the Year,” features toe-tapping original songs by composer Laura Hall (ABC’s Whose Line is it Anyway?) and lyricist Timothy Armstrong.
Included in The Wheels on the Bus: Mango’s Big Dog Parade DVD package is a “Parent’s Guide,” developed in consultation with Dr. Dorothy Singer, co-director of Yale University Family Television Research and Consultation Center, who also consulted on the production.
The Wheels on the Bus: Mango’s Big Dog Parade is presented in full frame with an aspect ration of 4 x 3. Special features include a “Behind the Scenes” video; a lyric sheet; and the charming movie short Behave Bernard.
To date, The Wheels on the Bus: Mango’s Big Dog Parade has garnered several awards, including iParenting Greatest Products of 2007; 2007 Creative Child Magazine Seal of Excellence; and 2007 National Parenting Center Seal of Approval
Also available are the first two titles in the series, Mango’s Animal Adventure and Mango Helps the Moon Mouse, which have received many awards and honors including a 2006 National Parenting Center Seal of Approval; 2006 and 2005 Creative Child Preferred Choice Award; 2006 and 2004 KIDS FIRST! All Star Endorsement; 2006 and 2004 iParenting Media Hot Award; 2006 and 2004 Dove Foundation’s approval; 2005 Parenting magazine Video/DVD Pick; 2005 “Best Vacation Products” pick by Dr. Toy; and 2004 Parents’ Choice Silver Honor.
Also Available in a Special Collector’s Set
All three titles are available is a special three-DVD/1-CD collectors set, including Mango’s Big Dog Parade, Mango’s Animal Adventure, Mango Helps the Moon Mouse and a bonus musical CD.
For more information about the Big Dog Foundation and the Big Dog Parade and Canine Festival, visit www.bigdogs.com.
About Our Happy Child Productions:
Founded by award-winning producers Timothy Armstrong and Randall Frederick and executive producers Frank & Tiffany Foster and Robert Renshaw, Our Happy Child Productions is an independent production company formed to create a series of lively musical stories for children that also offer valuable lessons in socialization, friendship, cooperation, sharing and other life skills. While many companies focus on products to create little geniuses, Our Happy Child Productions cares about developing “great kids” who are polite, well mannered and fun!
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company, including LeapFrog′s A Tad of Christmas Cheer. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
The Wheels on the Bus: Mango’s Big Dog Parade
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Genre: Children’s
Not Rated
Format: DVD Only
Running Time: 33 Minutes (Plus Special Features)
Suggested Retail Price: Mango’s Big Dog Parade – $14.98
Mango Helps the Moon Mouse – $9.98 (36 Minutes)
Mango’s Animal Adventure – $9.98 (33 Minutes)
3-DVD/1-CD Wheels on the Bus Collector’s Set – $29.98
Pre-Order Date: December 19, 2007
Street Date: January 22, 2008
Catalog #: Mango’s Big Dog Parade – 1007
Mango Helps the Moon Mouse – 1006
Mango’s Animal Adventure – 1005
3-DVD/1-CD Wheels on the Bus Collector’s Set – 1008
UPC Code: Mango’s Big Dog Parade – 810863010074
Mango Helps the Moon Mouse – 810863010067
Mango’s Animal Adventure – 810863010050
3-DVD/1-CD Wheels on the Bus Collector’s Set – 810863010081
Contacts:
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
Vicki Greenleaf — vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
For screeners or artwork, please call or e-mail:
Karen Brundage — karen@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| PorchLight Home Entertainment Gears Up 2008 Release Schedule With Aggressive Acquisitions Campaign |
December 11 2007
LOS ANGELES — Dec. 11, 2007 — For Immediate Release — PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE), which was launched in early 2007, is gearing up its DVD distribution
schedule for 2008 with an aggressive acquisitions campaign, it was announced today by Brenda Bisner, vice-president acquisitions, children’s programming, PorchLight Entertainment.
PHE has acquired U.S. distribution rights for:
• DVD rights to the popular FARMkids television series from FARMkids Pty Ltd.
• Seven DVD titles from The Trevor Romain Company
• The Little Playdates DVD series from The Little Playdates Company
Commented Bisner, “We are very excited to announce the furthering of our relationship with FARMkids – which we also represent for distribution and licensing worldwide, with the exception of Australia – and our newly established relationships with The Trevor Romain Company and The Little Playdates Company. As a premiere producer and distributor of quality children’s entertainment, PorchLight looks for the type of innovative, award-winning children’s and family programming produced by companies like these.”
Added Gary Jones, senior vice president of PHE, “As we grow PorchLight Home Entertainment, we are very enthusiastic about our 2008 release schedule, which features a broad array of children’s product that is both entertaining and informative.”
FARMkids Pty Ltd:
FARMkids is a privately funded, independent animation and creative studio based in Brisbane, Australia. The FARMkids production house specializes in leading edge 3D CGI animation for children and recently won the Best Animated TV Series at the prestigious Australian Effects and Animation Festival. With its first season of the FARMkids television show nearing completion, the FARMkids team is now working on season two and the FARMkids movie special, planned for release in 2010.
In the tradition of Over the Hedge and Barnyard, the FARMkids concept is based around the irony of farm animals who know nothing about living in the country. They are a bunch of fastlane pampered city animals who live a star-studded life in a popular nursery petting zoo, but their lives take a funny, unexpected turn when they suddenly get relocated. For more information, visit www.farmkids.tv.
The Trevor Romain Company:
Noted for having a stunning rapport with kids by The Washington Post, Trevor Romain is an international children’s advocate and entertainer, who has worked with hundreds of thousands of children worldwide to promote social and emotional fitness. He is well known for his special blend of gentle humor and the character-building messages captured in his award-winning video series. Captivating kids with animation and live-action, they learn powerful messages that prepare them for happy and successful lives. As president and the creative force of The Trevor Romain Company, Romain is committed to speaking to kids in their own language and empowering families to talk about life’s tough situations in an honest and caring way.
The seven DVD titles acquired by PHE for distribution include: Taking The “Duh” Out Of Divorce; Bullies Are A Pain In The Brain; Facing Fear Without Freaking Out; How To Do Homework Without Throwing Up; If You Don’t Take Care Of Your Body, Where Else Are You Going To Live?; What On Earth Do You Do When Someone Dies?; and Cliques, Phonies And Other Baloney. For more information, visit www.trevorromain.com.
The Little Playdates Company:
Little Playdates is a first of its kind, award-winning DVD series for babies, toddlers and pre-schoolers focused on teaching positive social behaviors through child-to-child interaction and play. Created by a husband and wife team and endorsed by child psychologists, the series provides a unique experience for children in which they can interact and learn with other children in a wonderfully vivid live-action experience.
For children from birth to three years, the Little Playdates DVD series has been developed from a child’s perspective and provides a visually stimulating interactive experience that will delight your child as they explore creatures from land and sea first hand with other children. The combination of real-world images, music and wholesome fun both entertains and encourages a child’s positive social and emotional development. Little Playdates DVDs have received the 2007 Video of the Year Award by Creative Child magazine and been featured in Parenting magazine’s 2007 “Baby Must Haves” book. For more information, visit www.LittlePlaydates.com.
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among
the tiles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures From The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; and The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Contact:
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Vicki Greenleaf
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| REVVING, READY AND WAITING TO BE CAPTAINED, JAY JAY THE JET PLANE™, SNUFFY™ AND LINA™ KIDDIE RIDES HAVE LANDED |
November 12 2007
Los Angeles, CA – NOVEMBER 12, 2007 – PorchLight Entertainment, globally known independent producer and distributor of family programming today announced that the Coinstar-produced Jay Jay the Jet Plane character kiddie rides based on PorchLight’s award-winning animated preschool series have landed at key retail outlets across the country. Coinstar, Inc. expects to install at least 200 of the Jay Jay kiddie rides over the next year; more than 30 rides have already been delivered to select regional mass merchants and toy stores in the U.S. Coinstar, Inc.’s product line will offer the only Jay Jay kiddie rides in North America.
“We have seen first hand the excitement, enthusiasm and downright affection children openly display when they see the rides. The parent’s excitement when their little ones are flying is equally fun,” said William Baumann, PorchLight’s COO and executive producer of the series.
Promising to deliver major air smiles for preschoolers and young children, the character rides, which include Jay Jay and his winged pals Lina and Snuffy have the added value of Jay Jay theme music and sound effects that encourage the young flight captains to let their imagination take flight and soar.
"It’s rewarding to see children experience the ‘Jay Jay’ rides for the first time”, said Dan Peck, vice president, Machine Development, Coinstar Entertainment Services, Inc. “We believe that they will have many great adventures with Jay Jay, Lena and Snuffy.”
About Jay Jay The Jet Plane:
Jay Jay The Jet Plane, created by Deborah and David Michel, follows the adventures of a perky and curious six-year old jet plane named Jay Jay and his airplane friends who live and play at Tarrytown Airport™, a place “where imagination takes flight! ™.” The 3-D animated television series is a successful part of PBS KIDS in the US and on other leading kids’ networks worldwide. Jay Jay The Jet Plane is produced by PorchLight Entertainment and Modern Cartoons, with PorchLight holding exclusive worldwide distribution rights. Visit Tarrytown at www.JayJay.com.
About PorchLight Entertainment
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS, Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The Company is currently co-producing Animalia for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. The Company’s distribution library consists of more than 1,000 episodes of series programming and more than 200 movies. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Contact:
Georgia Scott
Global Strategies, Ink
(818) 432-1434
Georgia@theagency.tv
William Baumann
PorchLight Entertainment
(310) 477-8400
wbaumann@porchlight.com
|
| NEW FAMILY-SAFE INTERNET VIDEO SHARING SITE LAUNCHES CONTESTS, CONTENT & TALENT SEARCHES |
November 5 2007
Los Angeles, CA – Nov. 5, 2007 – PorchLight Entertainment, a leader in high quality children’s and family entertainment, is ramping up the activity for its recently launched KidVideos.com (Sept. 12, 2007), a family-safe Internet site, with a casting call for kid hosts to play “emcee” roles around the site and be regular “familiar faces.” The family entertainment company is also recruiting “camcorder reporters” from around the U.S., covering fun and interesting topics for kids, such as concert events, fashion, kid comedians, culinary talent, whiz kids and talented kids showing their stuff. Additionally, the site holds monthly contests to recognize the best pet videos and music videos from kids, making KidVideos.com the portal for original user-generated content in a protected, safe environment for children.
Best described as a YouTube for kids, KidVideos.com provides an ideal platform for videos and programming created by the growing number of children interested in film, video and animation production, according to Bruce Johnson, PorchLight’s President/CEO, and William Baumann, its COO. This first site of this kind dedicated exclusively to kid-focused, user-generated content, KidVideos.com provides an easy to use, television-like viewing experience of “safe” kids’ (kids, tweens and teens) programming on the Internet. Staff editors screen all submissions to KidVideos.com before posting, to ensure age appropriateness and preserve the family-safe nature of the site.
David Wood, SVP/General Manager of PorchLight’s new Digital Media Division, which developed and runs the site, reports the PorchLight offices in Los Angeles have been busy seeing a stream of talented boys and girls auditioning to become the new faces of KidVideos.com -- hosts to let viewers know about new events on the site, and to give kids online personalities to identify with in their own special community.
PorchLight is conducting an extensive nationwide search to fill the roles of regional “camcorder reporters” for current events topical to kids, such as concerts, fashion, culinary, and kids showing off their stuff. “To develop our staff of reporters, we are recruiting from major cities around the country, including Los Angeles, New York City, Chicago, Seattle, Austin, Boston, Portland and Miami,” said Kevin Biggers, Director of Content for KidVideos.com. Between these reporting opportunities and the “we got talent” section of the site, kids have a new way to showcase themselves -- perhaps become the next Hannah Montana.
A seven-year-old girl singing and playing her guitar won the “best song” contest in October and received a new iPod nano. Her winning entry can be viewed on the site. More contests are already underway. November features a contest for the best videos covering the current Jonas Brothers concert and Disney’s High School Musical Tour. The top three winners in each contest will win a cash prize. Other contest winners will receive a new RipRoar Creation Station from ToyQuest, a complete video camera solution with mountable green screen and tripod for creating exciting videos.
The KidVideos.com site now has more than 500 user-generated kid videos with new ones being added every week, according to Wood. “There’s always something new to watch when kids go to the site,” he said. “We’ve also made it easier to share the videos by adding the ability to “get a link” to a video or embed it as a KidVideos portable player directly into another web page or email message.”
“We encourage more kids and families to share their videos on KidVideos.com,” said Wood. “Most families may not realize that they already own the video editing software on their current computers, with which to assemble and create videos for sharing with friends and family. Windows XP and Vista versions include ‘Windows Movie Maker,’ and all versions of Mac OS X include ‘iMovie’,” said Wood. “In 10 to 20 minutes, kids or their parents can create great-looking videos complete with titles, nice dissolves and smooth transitions, and then upload the polished results to the site.”
About PorchLight Entertainment
Los Angeles-based PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS, Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a lineup of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. The company’s distribution library consists of more than 1,000 episodes of series programming and more than 200 movies. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
|
| A Tad of Christmas Cheer - Just in Time for the Holidays Comes a Heartwarming Tale for Children & Their Families |
November 1 2007
LOS ANGELES — November 1, 2007 — For Immediate Release — Just in time for the holidays comes a heartwarming new animated tale for children and their families, the first holiday special in the LeapFrog DVD collection, A Tad of Christmas Cheer, in stores now
from PorchLight Home Entertainment.
In A Tad of Christmas Cheer, Tad the four-year-old tadpole is as excited as he can be about Christmas. But it seems as if all the family’s attention is on their newest addition—a baby. Tad is frustrated and resentful until along comes Edison, his fairy god-bug, who shows him another side of life. Tad learns a valuable lesson about the importance of family and the true meaning of the holiday season!
From the producer of the most trusted children’s content in the world, LeapFrog’s
A Tad of Christmas Cheer is a fun and educational animated program for young children that the entire family will enjoy!
A Tad of Christmas Cheer is presented in full frame (1.33:1). Special features include a “LeapFrog Christmas Sing Along,” featuring your favorite LeapFrog characters.
|
| Holidaze: The Christmas That Almost Didn’t Happen - The North Pole Has Never Seen a Christmas Like This! |
November 1 2007
LOS ANGELES — Nov. 1, 2007 — For Immediate Release — Voiced by a stellar cast of Hollywood stars and featuring original songs from the composers of High School Musical, Holidaze: The Christmas That Almost Didn’t Happen is this holiday season’s zaniest family adventure, now available from PorchLight Home Entertainment.
An hour-long stop-motion animated holiday special in the tradition of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and Frosty the Snowman, Holidaze: The Christmas That Almost Didn’t Happen features some of the Disney Channel’s hottest stars: Emily Osment (Hannah Montana), Brenda Song and Cole & Dylan Sprouse (Suite Life of Zack and Cody).
Holidaze: The Christmas That Almost Didn’t Happen is the story of Rusty (Fred Savage, The Wonder Years), a young reindeer who is tired of living in the shadow of his famous, red-nosed brother. So he sets out for the “Big City” to find his own place in the Christmas tradition.
Along the way he meets up with Candie the Easter Bunny (Grammy Award-winning songstress Gladys Knight), Cupid (comedian Paul Rodriguez), Albert the Thanksgiving Turkey (Harland Williams, Meet the Robinsons, Dumb & Dumber) and a pair of Valley-girl Halloween ghosts named Trick (Osment) and Treat (Song).
Also featuring the voices of Fred Willard (Chicken Little), Edie McClurg (The Little Mermaid) and John O’Hurley (Seinfeld).
Holidaze: The Christmas That Almost Didn’t Happen is presented in full frame (1.78:1). Special features include exclusive bloopers; and never-before-seen, behind-the-scenes footage.
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company, including LeapFrog′s A Tad of Christmas Cheer. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Holidaze: The Christmas That Almost Didn’t Happen
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Genre: Holiday/Children’s/Family
Not Rated
Format: DVD Only
Running Time: 60 Minutes (Plus Special Features)
Suggested Retail Price: $14.98
Street Date: October 30, 2007
Catalog #: 1004
UPC Code: 810863010043
Contacts:
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
Vicki Greenleaf — vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
For screeners or artwork, please call or e-mail:
Karen Brundage — karen@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| The Family Holiday - Starring Full House’s Dave Coulier as the Most Lovable Con Man Since W.C. Fields |
November 1 2007
LOS ANGELES — Nov. 1, 2007 — For Immediate Release — The most loveable con man since W.C. Fields unwraps the true meaning of family and Christmas in the heartwarming holiday tale The Family Holiday, now available from PorchLight Home Entertainment.
In The Family Holiday, Donald “Doc” Holiday (Dave Coulier, Joey on TV’s award-winning Full House) is a con man with a knack for trouble. Before he can inherit his uncle’s fortune, he must become the perfect family man, complete with a wife, kids … even a dog! A hilarious, uplifting comedy, The Family Holiday proves once and for all that families are lost – and found – in the heart.
Scheduled for a television premiere in December on the Lifetime Television Network, The Family Holiday was written and directed by Craig Clyde (The Wild Stallion) and also stars Christina Pickles (George of the Jungle 2), Alexa Fischer, Abigail Schornick and William Shultz.
The Family Holiday is presented in full frame (1.78:1).
About PorchLight Home Entertainment:
Launched in early 2007, PorchLight Home Entertainment (PHE) is a division of PorchLight Entertainment. PHE emphasizes positive family values, informing as well as entertaining. Among the titles being distributed by PHE are: LeapFrog’s holiday special, A Tad of Christmas Cheer; The Family Holiday; the award-winning Wheels on the Bus series; Little Playdates series; Travel With Kids series; and the upcoming release of the classic PBS series Adventures From the Book of Virtues.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS; The Tutenstein Movie for Discovery Kids; The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday for Cartoon Network; and a direct-to-video series for LeapFrog, the leading electronic toy company, including LeapFrog′s A Tad of Christmas Cheer. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
The Family Holiday
PorchLight Home Entertainment
Genre: Holiday/Family
Not Rated
Format: DVD Only
Running Time: 94 Minutes
Suggested Retail Price: $14.98
Street Date: November 6, 2007
Catalog #: 1002
UPC Code: 810863010029
Contacts:
Greenleaf & Associates — 323-660-5800
Vicki Greenleaf — vicki@greenleafandassociates.com
For screeners or artwork, please call or e-mail:
Karen Brundage — karen@greenleafandassociates.com
|
| Company Anticipates Major lurries Over Newest Production "Secrets of Maple Cove" starring Melissa Joan Hart |
October 8 2007
Cannes, France – October 08, 2007 – It’s raining sales or better still sales are reigning for PorchLight Entertainment following the end of day one at the market announced Ken DuBow, President of Worldwide Distribution. According to DuBow, leading the list of recent international sales is the action thriller “Hell’s Rain” which has been sold to TF1/France, Sogecable/Spain, RTL2/Germany, Art Port/Japan, Andrea Leone/Italy, TVP/Poland, D Productions/Turkey, RTL Klub/Hungary, Eagle and Orbit/Middle East, Star TV/Asia, and MPI/Romania.
Relative to today’s sales, PorchLight also introduced “Secrets of Maple Cove” to the marketplace, which stars the globally known talents of Melissa Joan Hart of Sabrina the Teenage Witch fame.
“It’s only day one and we’ve had such great interest in our product, especially our movies as exemplified by ‘Hell’s Rain’ sales,” said DuBow. “Couple this with the strong attention our latest
production ‘Secrets of Maple Cove’ is garnering, pretty much spells out the beginning of a great market for PorchLight.”
Unlike “Hell’s Rain,” which uses a natural disaster as its underlying current, its counterpoint, “Secrets of Maple Cove,” is an edge-of-your-seat mystery thriller that captures Hart’s dramatic abilities. Both are titles available for free TV, pay TV and video distribution.
|
| IT’S RAINING SALES ON DAY ONE FOR PORCHLIGHT WITH “HELL’S RAIN” STORMING MARKET AS FAVORITE AMONG INTERNATIONAL BUYERS |
October 8 2007
Cannes, France – October 08, 2007 – It’s raining sales or better still sales are reigning for PorchLight Entertainment following the end of day one at the market announced Ken DuBow, President of Worldwide Distribution. According to DuBow, leading the list of recent international sales is the action thriller “Hell’s Rain” which has been sold to TF1/France, Sogecable/Spain, RTL2/Germany, Art Port/Japan, Andrea Leone/Italy, TVP/Poland, D Productions/Turkey, RTL Klub/Hungary, Eagle and Orbit/Middle East, Star TV/Asia, and MPI/Romania.
Relative to today’s sales, PorchLight also introduced “Secrets of Maple Cove” to the marketplace, which stars the globally known talents of Melissa Joan Hart of Sabrina the Teenage Witch fame.
“It’s only day one and we’ve had such great interest in our product, especially our movies as exemplified by ‘Hell’s Rain’ sales,” said DuBow. “Couple this with the strong attention our latest
production ‘Secrets of Maple Cove’ is garnering, pretty much spells out the beginning of a great market for PorchLight.”
Unlike “Hell’s Rain,” which uses a natural disaster as its underlying current, its counterpoint, “Secrets of Maple Cove,” is an edge-of-your-seat mystery thriller that captures Hart’s dramatic abilities. Both are titles available for free TV, pay TV and video distribution.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children′s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children′s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. In addition to the PorchLight brand, the Company operates Condor Releasing, a worldwide distribution division and home entertainment label for programming, which falls outside the family entertainment profile. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including "Tutenstein," the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe; "Jay Jay the Jet Plane" for PBS; "Four Eyes" for France 3,Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and "Adventures from The Book of Virtues" for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The Company is currently co-producing "Animalia" for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; The "Tutenstein Movie" for Discovery Kids;” “Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday" for Cartoon Network; "A Tad of Christmas Cheer" for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
PorchLight Booth: R34.03
Booth Phone: 9299-8804
For more information contact:
Georgia Scott
Global Strategies, Ink
(818) 432-1434
georgia@theagency.tv
Ken DuBow
PorchLight Entertainment
(310) 477-8400
kdubow@porchlight.com
|
| PORCHLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT NAMES BRENDA BISNER VICE PRESIDENT OF ACQUISITIONS, CHILDREN’S PROGRAMMING |
September 24 2007
Los Angeles, CA – September 24, 2007 – In a strategic move, PorchLight Entertainment, known globally for its kids’ and family programming, has named Brenda Bisner, Vice President, Acquisitions, Children’s Programming. In her new position, Bisner will be responsible for the acquisition of children’s animated and live action programming worldwide for PorchLight’s international distribution division as well as the newly formed home entertainment and digital media divisions.
In making today’s announcement William Baumann, PorchLight’s COO said, “With the continued growth of our international program distribution division, our recent expansion into the domestic home entertainment business and our planned development of children’s platforms on the Internet, we can now offer content owners expanded opportunities for the distribution of their programming. Under Brenda’s direction, our goal is to acquire the best available children’s programming worldwide for these distribution platforms.”
In her expanded duties, Ms. Bisner will work closely with Ken DuBow, President of Worldwide Distribution; Gary Jones, Senior Vice President, PorchLight Home Entertainment; and David Wood, Senior Vice President, Digital Media Group. Karen Roberts, Senior Vice President, Acquisitions, will continue to be responsible for the acquisition of movies for the company.
Bisner, who joined PorchLight earlier this year, held the post of Director of Acquisitions, Digital Media where she worked closely with PorchLight’s digital media group in the launch of KidVideos.com, a new family-safe website for kids, tweens and teens, and PorchLight’s first foray into Internet entertainment. She came to PorchLight from GRB Entertainment where she served as Director of Acquisitions.
Prior to GRB, Bisner’s industry experience also includes development and production of scripted and unscripted programming for Tom Lynch Co. working closely with Tom Lynch, best known as the creator of the “tween genre,” and the acquisition and distribution of animated series and shorts from around the globe with Branscome International.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children′s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children′s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. In addition to the PorchLight brand, the Company operates Condor Releasing, a worldwide distribution division and home entertainment label for programming, which falls outside the family entertainment profile. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including "Tutenstein," the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe; "Jay Jay the Jet Plane" for PBS; "Four Eyes" for France 3,Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and "Adventures from The Book of Virtues" for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The Company is currently co-producing "Animalia" for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; The "Tutenstein Movie" for Discovery Kids;” “Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday" for Cartoon Network; "A Tad of Christmas Cheer" for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
For more information contact:
Georgia Scott
Global Strategies, Ink
(818) 432-1434
georgia@theagency.tv
William Baumann
PorchLight Entertainment
(310) 477-8400
wbaumann@porchlight.com
|
| PORCHLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT LAUNCHES KIDVIDEOS.COM TO HOST VIDEOS FOR KIDS... BY KIDS...IN A SECURE FAMILY-FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT |
September 12 2007
Los Angeles, CA –September 12, 2007 – PorchLight Entertainment, a leader in high quality children’s and family entertainment, is launching KidVideos.com, a family-safe Internet site that will provide a secure, dynamic, and empowering place dedicated exclusively toward the millions of kids who are spending increasingly large quantities of time online, it was announced today by Bruce Johnson, PorchLight’s President and CEO, and William Baumann, its Chief Operating Officer.
KidVideos.com was created to provide fun, original content in a protected, safe environment for children. Best described as a YouTube for kids, KidVideos.com provides an ideal platform for videos and programming created by the growing number of children interested in film, video and animation production. This is maximized by the ultimate fun of sharing their creations with their peers and family. Currently in the public beta stage, when fully released the advertiser-supported site will also provide online tools and services for recording and editing videos, online.
Johnson said, “As parents, we wanted to offer a safe, secure environment online for kids to post their own content. That’s why we created KidVideos.com. The site is for kids, by kids and about kids. KidVideos.com is all about user-generated content, offering kids of all ages a safe harbor to share their own creations, express themselves via their own video blogs and send their creations to others. ”
As the first site of this kind dedicated exclusively to kid-focused, user-generated content, KidVideos.com provides an easy to use, television-like viewing experience of ‘safe’ kids’ (kids, tweens and teens) programming on the Internet. Staff editors screen all submissions to KidVideos.com before posting to ensure age appropriateness and preserve the family-safe nature of the site. Parents, teachers, caregivers, and advertisers can have complete confidence in the content safety of KidVideos.com.
Baumann added, “We envision that the KidVideos.com content will include original animated and live-action short movie ideas, as well as videos about a variety of aspects of children’s lives ranging from humorous events to holiday happenings, from pets and pals to birthdays and everything else that lights up the imagination of kids in general. Parents and grandparents will also have fun posting videos of their children and grandchildren.”
“Watching my kids use this site for the first time really validated how fun and easy KidVideos.com is to use.” concluded David Wood, Senior VP and General Manager of PorchLight’s new Digital Media Group. “The design and functionality really won them over in its ability to transport them into a vast online landscape of imagination and creativity. At first, they enjoyed just watching the videos in a full-screen television-like experience. But, once they got comfortable with the notion of making their own videos, they realized that KidVideos.com offers endless opportunities to create their own entertainment.”
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS, Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The Company is currently co-producing Animalia for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. The Company’s distribution library consists of more than 1,000 episodes of series programming and more than 200 movies. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
# # #
Contact:
Georgia Scott
Global Strategies, Ink
(818) 432-1434
georgia@theagency.tv
William Baumann
PorchLight Entertainment
(310) 477-8400 ext. 223
wbaumann@porchlight.com
|
| PORCHLIGHT’S “MY GOLDFISH IS EVIL!” CONQUERS |
September 10 2007
Los Angeles, CA – September 10, 2007 -- PorchLight Entertainment, the globally recognized producer and distributor of family and kids programming, has been busy netting in sales on the Sardine Productions 2-D animated series, “My Goldfish is Evil!” following the renewal of the series for a second season of 13 episodes by Canada’s CBC and Radio-Canada. Including the Canadian sales, the series has been cleared in more than 50 countries.
PorchLight has recently licensed the first 26-half-hour episodes to RRS/Germany; ABC/Australia; Starz Home Entertainment/Australia and New Zealand; Tara Film (RAI Sat)/Italy; ETB/Spain;
D Productions/Turkey; 7 Arts/Middle East; RTL Klub/ Hungary; Noga/Israel, plus Konstantin Vedermikov/CIS and Delta/former Yugoslavia.
According to Ken DuBow, PorchLight’s President of Worldwide Distribution who made today’s announcement, “My Goldfish Is Evil! has achieved outstanding ratings and we’re thrilled with the reception of the series by broadcasters and video distributors throughout the world. We’re looking forward to introducing the second season of new episodes at MIPCOM this fall.”
“My Goldfish is Evil is our top rated show for 8-12 year olds,” adds Kim Wilson, Creative Head of the Children’s and Youth Department at the CBC. “The show had its world premiere on our network in September 2007, and we have been nothing but pleased; both with it being such a well crafted, very clever comedy, but also how well kids have responded to it. We couldn’t’ be happier.”
Recently nominated as best animated series at Canada’s Gémeaux Awards, My Goldfish Is Evil!, created by Nicolas J. Boisvert, directed by Steven Majaury and produced by Ghislain Cyr, chronicles the hilarious adventures of a young boy named Beanie and his little pet "Mr. Bubbles," a talking goldfish who wants nothing less than to conquer the entire world! Although at first it may sound absurd, Beanie has come to realize that, in fact, the tiny fish is a criminal genius able to construct diabolical devices even out of everyday objects. More to the point, he is easily capable of achieving his nefarious goal. And, since no criminal genius would let a mere kid stand in his way, Beanie must risk his life to try and thwart him at every turn, especially since he must live under his mother’s threatening edict that no harm can come to Mr. Bubbles . . . or else!! Can young Beanie manage to stay one step ahead of him and two steps ahead of his Mom? The future of the planet depends on the answer!
About Sardine Productions Inc.
Sardine is dedicated to the development of original content for the international market. Sardine concentrates its efforts in the development and the marketing of series that are based on the company’s intellectual properties, for broadcast and distribution on air and over the Internet. As a service house, Sardine offers producers a comprehensive range of creative and production services.
About PorchLight Entertainment
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children′s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children′s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. In addition to the PorchLight brand, the Company operates Condor Releasing, a worldwide distribution division and home entertainment label for programming, which falls outside the family entertainment profile. PorchLight has produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including "Tutenstein," the multiple Emmy Award winning series, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe; "Jay Jay the Jet Plane" for PBS; "Four Eyes" for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and "Adventures from The Book of Virtues" for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing "Animalia" for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; The "Tutenstein Movie" for Discovery Kids; “The Secret Adventures of Zak Saturday" for Cartoon Network; "A Tad of Christmas Cheer" for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Contact:
Georgia Scott
Global Strategies, Ink
818 432 1434
mktingmaven@att.net
Ken DuBow
PorchLight Entertainment
310 477 8400
kdubow@porchlight.com
|
| PORCHLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT SAYS HAVE NO FRET . . . GOFRETTE IS HERE AS IT COMES TO THE MARKET WITH NEW SERIES AND KID FAVORITES |
August 20 2007
Los Angeles, CA – August 20, 2007 – With animated series continuing to serve as a cornerstone to its global success, PorchLight Entertainment will unveil the charmingly silly GoFrette, based on the best selling preschool books from Doris Brasset and Fabienne Michot, at this year’s MIPCOM Jr. Serving as its flagship of “must see” kids and family programming, PorchLight will screen completed episodes for the first time at the market, it was announced today by Ken DuBow, PorchLight’s President of Worldwide Distribution.
DuBow said, “We are looking forward to screening GoFrette. We’re confident it will capture the attention of buyers looking for a property that will work well in any language and create a comfort zone for parents and advertisers.”
Available as 52 twelve-minute episodes, GoFrette features one highly enthusiastic, inquisitive, endlessly optimistic, somewhat eccentric and definitely happy cat, and his friends, Fudge (with “bad ear days”), Ellie Copter (a leggy bird with a propeller on her head), Red (a “talking” refrigerator) and many other highly unusual and colorful characters who set off into the land of Zanimo on an adventure that goes from one thing to another in the most unexpectedly silly and surprising fashion also teaches children that even when it seems that things haven’t gone exactly as planned, if you give it a chance, take another look . . . around the corner could be something even better! The series, set to premiere on CBC and Société Radio-Canada in Canada this Fall, is jointly produced by the award winning, Canadian-based Zoe Mae Productions and Subsequence Entertainment. Excluding Canada, PorchLight holds worldwide distribution and licensing and merchandising rights.
“We have an envious library of successful kids’ programming, many with new episodes being screened at MIPCOM Jr. and MIPCOM for the first time and we invite buyers to come by our booth to view them,” DuBow added. “I am confident that PorchLight can meet the needs of broadcasters, distributors and advertisers looking for quality kids and family programming.”
While at the market, PorchLight will also feature properties from its expansive roster of children’s animated and live action titles including:
My Goldfish Is Evil!: (26 x 30 minutes) Recently nominated as best animated series at Canada’s Gémeauc Awards, My Goldfish Is Evil!, chronicles the hilarious adventures of a young boy named Beanie and his little pet "Mr. Bubbles," a talking goldfish who wants nothing less than to conquer the entire world! Beanie has come to realize that the tiny fish is a criminal genius able to construct diabolical devices even out of everyday objects and is quite capable of achieving his nefarious goal. Now, Beanie must risk his life to try and thwart the evil goldfish at every turn while living under his mother’s threatening edict that no harm can come to Mr. Bubbles . . . or else! The fish tale is told in 26 half-hour episodes with 13 being new to the market this year.
Monster Warriors (52 x 30 minutes) Heroic teen live action mixes comic book styling, humor, and outstanding CGI creatures in a setting that keeps the core audience of 8-12 year olds on the edge of their seats. Using everyday household objects to make low-tech weapons, the Monster Warriors—Luke, Tabby, Antonio and Vanka, —defend Capital City against an onslaught of creatures straight out of 1950’s monster movies. The 52 half-hour episodes, including 26 episodes new to the market, features 47 different monsters, including a giant anaconda, Tyrannosaurus Rex, a sea cucumber, and a skeleton army.
FARMkids: (26 x 12 minutes) Here’s a bunch of fast-lane pampered city animals who lived in star-studded life in a popular nursery petting zoo and not by their choice, got relocated to the Dude Ranch. Tales told in 26 twelve-minute animated episodes, this is a place where the old, modern and twilight zone elements meet to give a tainted, fun-filled, giggling twist to anything that might faintly resemble Old McDonald and his menagerie other then . . . E . . . I . . . E . . . I . . .Oh!!
Tutenstein: (39 x 30 minutes) Continuing to reign and rule his young viewers with wit and wild antics, Tutenstein, the undead 10-year-old pharaoh for whom the multi-Emmy award-winning animated series is named, will be coming back to the market with 39 half-hour episodes. Tutenstein tells the tales of a 3000 year old boy-mummy-Pharaoh who is brought back to life following a lightning strike upon his sarcophagus on display in a modern day museum. Short on stature but long on attitude, Tut believes he is the supreme ruler of the world and schemes to take his rightful place through the antics and adventures that only a 3010-year-old boy could muster.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has also produced more than 30 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS, Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia, and Nickelodeon Australia, Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company; and is currently co-producing Animalia for the BBC, PBS and Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
For more information contact:
Georgia Scott
Global Strategies, Ink
(818) 432-1434
georgia@theagency.tv
Ken DuBow
PorchLight Entertainment
(310) 477-8400
kdubow@porchlight.com
|
| PORCHLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT UPS JEFFREY ENGELEN TO VICE PRESIDENT WORLDWIDE SALES |
August 15 2007
Los Angeles, CA – August 15, 2007 – Accelerating its worldwide sales activities under the leadership of Ken DuBow, PorchLight Entertainment’s President of Worldwide Distribution, it was announced today that Jeffrey Engelen had been promoted to Vice President, Worldwide Sales. Reporting to DuBow, Engelen’s sales responsibilities have expanded to include key territories throughout Europe, Russia, Africa and the Middle East where he will concentrate on broadcast sales of PorchLight’s expansive library of programming. Kicking off his sales efforts under his new title, Engelen will target key broadcasters and distributors throughout Germany.
Relative to today’s announcement, PorchLight’s, Katherine Kaufman and JD Beaufils, also VP Worldwide Sales, have expanded their sales activities prior to MIPCOM. Kaufman has added the UK, Australia and New Zealand to her broadcast sales roster while JD Beaufils, who joined the company earlier this year, will now focus on ’all rights distribution’ globally.
According to DuBow, “Jeffrey has proven himself a marketable asset to the company. His skills and knowledge of the marketplace lets him consistently target the right PorchLight properties with the right broadcasters. He well deserves this promotion.” He added, “We have a strong, exceptional sales team and we anticipate a great market at MIPCOM and exceptional year for the company.”
Engelen joined PorchLight in 2004 as Director of International Licensing. This was following his relocation in August 2003 from Holland to the US where he had successfully established himself as international sales and licensing consultant for a number of international and US-based clients. In his position with PorchLight, he developed and managed the international licensing agent’s network to sell and market the company’s merchandising, video, wireless and promotional rights. Later he took the added responsibilities of selling and licensing PorchLight programming in various broadcast and video formats.
Prior to coming to the United States, Engelen served as Sales and Licensing Director for Telescreen Distribution and Licensing, a leading full-service children’s branding company. Based in Hilversum, Holland, Engelen was responsible for the marketing and sales of several key children’s brands. As such, he negotiated licensed products and promotions with numerous national and international licensees targeting key product categories.
Engelen holds a Masters Degree in Business Culture, Organization and Management from VU Amsterdam as well as a BA in International Business, English and French from the Higher Institute of Economy and Management in Utrecht, Holland. He is fluent in several languages including English, Dutch, German and French.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has also produced more than 30 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS, Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia, and Nickelodeon Australia, Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company; and is currently co-producing Animalia for the BBC, PBS and Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
For more information contact:
Georgia Scott
Global Strategies, Ink
(818) 432-1434
georgia@theagency.tv
Ken DuBow
PorchLight Entertainment
(310) 477-8400
kdubow@porchlight.com
|
| PORCHLIGHT FLIES HIGH WITH CONDOR DIVISION |
August 1 2007
Los Angeles, August 1, 2007 -- PorchLight Entertainment, a leading independent producer and distributor of family entertainment, is launching Condor Releasing, a new worldwide distribution division and home entertainment label that will handle content in all media which falls outside the family entertainment profile, it was announced today by Ken DuBow, President of Worldwide Distribution.
The first acquisition under this new label is Antonio Negret’s TOWARDS DARKNESS, an edgy thriller starring Golden Globe and Imagen Award winner America Ferrera (UGLY BETTY, REAL WOMAN HAVE CURVES, THE SISTERHOOD OF THE TRAVELING PANTS), who is also the executive producer on the film. TOWARDS DARKNESS scored a hit at the Tribeca Film Festival 2007, and after the film’s debut at Tribeca the acquisition was brokered by Ken DuBow and Karen Roberts, with Ronna Wallace brokering the deal for the producers Luiza Ricupero, Craig Anderson and the director, Antonio Negret.
“TOWARDS DARKNESS is an excellent film and I’m very excited about bringing it into the international markets via Condor Releasing,” said DuBow, who joined the company in June 2007. “I look forward to announcing several acquisitions of a similar caliber before AFM.”
PorchLight’s CEO Bruce Johnson said, “We’ve been able to build PorchLight into a successful company by building carefully upon our core business. Launching Condor Releasing under Ken is a great way for us to take the skill set that has made PorchLight a leader in family entertainment and expand into other entertainment genres.” Added William Baumann, PorchLight’s COO, “This is a very exciting step for PorchLight. Condor will expand the range of companies we can do business with and increase our market share. We’ll have many more acquisitions to announce in the coming months, aided by the increased revenue out of video and home entertainment. This is an excellent way for PorchLight to continue its growth trajectory in the coming years.”
In addition to TOWARDS DARKNESS, Condor Releasing will be distributing the edgy animated comedy AQUA TEEN HUNGER FORCE. The film will be screened in October at the prestigious Sitges Film Festival in Spain, the world’s premiere festival for animated and fantasy films.
Along with the new Condor Releasing label, PorchLight launched a domestic home entertainment division under the PorchLight Home Entertainment label in June, enabling the company to exploit its vast library of family entertainment across a new platform. This division, headed by Senior Vice President Gary Jones, is focused on the distribution of kids and family programming, acquired from leading producers worldwide in addition to the release of the company’s new productions, as well as programs from its substantial library.
About PorchLight Entertainment
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children’s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has also produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including Tutenstein, the multiple Emmy Award-winning series, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The Company is currently co-producing Animalia for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; The Secret Adventures of Zack Saturday for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
For more information contact:
Bonnie Voland
B. Voland International
(213) 447-6091
bvoland@usa.net
Ken DuBow
PorchLight Entertainment
(310) 477-8400
kdubow@porchlight.com
|
| PORCHLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT LAUNCHES HOME ENTERTAINMENT DIVISION HELMED BY GARY JONES, DIVISION'S NEWLY APPOINTED SVP |
June 21 2007
Los Angeles, CA -- June 21, 2007 -- PorchLight Entertainment, Emmy-award-winning producer and distributor of family programming worldwide, announced today that it is forming a domestic home entertainment division launching under the label of PorchLight Home Entertainment The new division will focus on the distribution of kids and family programming, acquired from leading producers worldwide in addition to the release of the company′s new productions as well as programs from its substantial library. "When the PorchLight doors opened over a decade ago, it was with the expressed commitment to deliver the best of family entertainment to audiences everywhere," said Bruce Johnson, PorchLight′s President and CEO. "Whether produced by PorchLight or acquired from independent producers, PorchLight Home Entertainment will extend the reach and values of PorchLight′s name by providing superb programming directly to kids and their parents." Relative to today′s announcement, PorchLight also announced that it has appointed Gary Jones, Senior Vice President of PorchLight Home Entertainment. Jones, a longstanding industry veteran with executive stints at New Concorde, Trimark and Republic Pictures, will oversee the acquisitions and sales. William Baumann, PorchLight′s COO added, "Our expansion into the home entertainment business will continue the substantial growth that PorchLight has enjoyed during the past year. With his extensive experience, Gary Jones is the ideal executive to lead our home entertainment division." "I am excited by the strength and quality of our initial releases and look forward to aggressively launching PorchLight Home Entertainment at the upcoming Home Media Expo," offered Jones. PorchLight Home Entertainment′s initial release slate is as follows: November 2007: The keystone to PorchLight Home Entertainment′s launch is the LeapFrog animated DVD special A Tad of Christmas Cheer, a new holiday offering for preschoolers and their families with a brand new spin on the classic, "It′s A Wonderful Life”, only this tale is told on a smaller scale featuring four-year-old Tad Frog, his family, friends and his very own fairy god-bug, Edison. 30 minutes. Jones concluded, "LeapFrog is one of the leading educational electronic companies in the world and we are confident that this new release will follow in the path of prior LeapFrog DVD releases that have sold millions of units to date." From the classic PBS series Adventures from the Book of Virtues comes A Christmas Carol for Annie, an animated offering of a clever adaptation of Charles Dickens′ classic tale of the spirit of Christmas told with a more modern teenage twist. 60 minutes December 2007: Premiering on the Lifetime Channel in November prior to its DVD release, The Family Holiday stars funny man Dave Coulier (Full House) and is a hilarious live-action comedy that takes a dog, two kids, a nanny and a loveable con man to unwrap the true meaning of Christmas. 90 minutes. A live action adventure, Treasure Island Kids: The Pirates of Treasure Island has wacky inventor Conrad Dawson, the man who has spent his life trying to find the treasure on Treasure Island, broke and desperate to keep the island he launches Camp Treasure Island for kids from all over the world to enjoy. However, a nasty villain (Randy Quaid), who believes he is a descendant from the infamous pirate Captain Flint, arrives to take over the island. With Conrad and his wife taken captive it′s up to the kids to save the island and the summer camp. 90 minutes About PorchLight Entertainment: PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children′s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has produced more than 30 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS, Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com. Contact: Georgia Scott Global Strategies, Ink (818) 432-1434 georgia@theagency.tv William Baumann PorchLight Entertainment (310) 477-8400 wbaumann@porchlight.com
|
| PORCHLIGHT MAXIMIZES GLOBAL MERCHANDISNG AND LICENSING INITIATIVE WITH GIRL AUTHORITY® AND JAY JAY THE JET PLANE BRAND AT FOREFRONT |
May 24 2007
Los Angeles, CA -- May 24, 2007 -- PorchLight Entertainment, recognized for its family-friendly properties, continues to expand its worldwide branding and licensing agenda with the International Licensing Show 2007 debut of the new animated children′s series, the pop girl group Girl Authority, as well as its longstanding keystone brand Jay Jay The Jet Plane.
PorchLight will also introduce its newly acquired brand Girl Authority the name of the tween girl group singing sensation that continues to make great inroads among tweens and parents alike. Girl Authority features nine multi-talented girls (ages 10-15) -- each with a different look and personality -- all tied together with friendship, talent and optimism. Their self-titled debut album, released in April 2006 on Rounder Records, reached No. 5 on Billboard′s Top Heatseekers chart and No. 9 on Billboard′s Top Kid Audio chart. Road Trip, the group′s second album, released in March, was just awarded the iParenting media award.
PorchLight′s COO, William Baumann, said, "This is an exceptional property with distinct branding and marketing attributes. Word of mouth, their CD′s and special appearances have basically generated their popularity among tweens. Capitalizing on this growing fan base, we plan to bring Girl Authority to a broader audience with TV and DVD programming featuring the group. We′re also excited about introducing Girl Authority to the licensing industry at the New York Licensing Show in June."
Lastly but never least, PorchLight will continue to focus on its flagship property, the award-winning preschool favorite, Jay Jay the Jet Plane. Jay Jay is currently seen in over 85 million households worldwide and broadcast in the U.S. on over 200 PBS TV member stations, Jay Jay can also be seen in the U.S. daily on the recently launched PBS KIDS Sprout network, a fresh, new destination devoted to preschool children and their parents and caregivers. PBS KIDS Sprout is a 24-hour preschool channel available on digital cable and satellite television and complementary video on demand (VOD) service. PBS KIDS Sprout currently has over 24 million committed subscribers. Each Jay Jay episode includes valuable life lessons for young children. They learn important lessons about cooperation, teamwork, responsibility, and science and nature.
Inclusive of this release, PorchLight just secured deals with Coinstar International (coin operated rides) and Baby Boom Consumer Products. (Bedding and Room Decor). These products will premiere on shelves in the 3rd and 4th quarter of this year. Today, the Jay Jay brand is on shelves worldwide as DVD′s, apparel, toys, games, early reading and activity books to name a few.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children′s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has produced more than 30 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS, Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The company is currently co-producing Animalia for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Contact:
William Baumann
PorchLight Entertainment
(310) 477-8400
wbaumann@porchlight.com
Global Strategies, Ink
(818) 432-1434
georgia@theagency.tv
|
| PORCHLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT AND ROUNDER RECORDS ANNOUNCE MULTI-PLATFORM DEAL FOR GIRL AUTHORITY® |
May 23 2007
Los Angeles, CA -- May 23, 2007 -- Boston′s tween princesses of pop, Girl Authority, are "ready for big time" according to Billboard and that time has come as it was announced today that PorchLight Entertainment has partnered with Rounder Records (the group′s label) to co-develop TV series, specials, website and direct-to-video programming, merchandising and original book series for the tween-targeted singing group sensation. Entertainment attorney Elaine Rogers, Esq. of Boston′s Fish & Richardson P.C. negotiated the deal for Rounder. PorchLight, known globally for its family and advertiser-friendly programming, will begin expansive marketing, branding and PR efforts at this year′s Licensing Show. Capitalizing on the group′s growing fan base, PorchLight and Rounder are developing a range of television, DVD and feature film concepts to introduce Girl Authority to a wider audience and generate an even greater fan loyalty and brand longevity. According to William Baumann, PorchLight′s COO, "Clearly, Girl Authority is a brand that young girls and tweens strongly identify with. We′ve seen it in the sale of the group′s CD′s, the sizeable audiences at their live shows, as well as the tremendous activity on their website. The group′s message to be yourself while treasuring friendships obviously resonates with young girls." "As a family friendly company, Porchlight Entertainment is a perfect fit for the Girl Authority brand. Its success in broadcasting, home video and consumer products will be instrumental in taking Girl Authority to the next level" said Girl Authority manager and President of Reach Media, Michael Pagnotta. Girl Authority is a group of nine girls (ages 10-15) each with an individual "identity" that ties in with their personalities: Tarr (Rock-n-Roll Girl), Alex (Fashion Girl), Jacqueline (All-Star Girl), Carly (Glamour Girl), Jess (Boho Girl), Gina (Urban Girl), Crystal (Country Girl), Kate (Party Girl) and Zoë (Preppy Girl). They go to school, are Girl Scouts, cheerlead, play sports, play instruments, have fun sleepover parties and--just happen to make hit records in their spare time (100,000 copies sold, and counting, of their eponymous 2006 CD). For more information visit www.girlauthority.com. Caren Shalek, Senior Vice President of Consumer Products for PorchLight, added, "The members of Girl Authority project a positive and optimistic image. They′re a group of real girls that are talented as well as having a young fashion sense. We′re excited about presenting Girl Authority at the New York Licensing Show next month." Girl Authority′s sophomore CD Road Trip, released this spring, is a collection of five original songs, and 14 covers that celebrate the joy of youthful girl-power, with family-friendly musical fare aimed toward and performed by the target audience′s peers. Scholastic Magazine said "it will put your child in gear to move". Produced by Grammy® award winning producer, Scott Billington, Road Trip is themed as a triptych across the U.S., with each group member visiting a different city. Highlights include "Let′s Get Together," an original groove-oriented track from Depeche Mode and Erasure member Vince Clarke and melodic pop/rocker, "This Is My Day," written by Tanya Donelly, formerly of the Throwing Muses, Belly and the Breeders. Cyndi Lauper also offered up her reggae-splashed, "Shine". In addition to the original material, the girls cover favorite hits like "Life is a Highway", "Girls Just Want to Have Fun", and "We are Family". About Rounder Records: Founded in 1970, Rounder Records is America′s premier independent label representing such artists as Alison Krauss, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Madeleine Peyroux, Minnie Driver, Cowboy Junkies and Raffi. Its catalog includes over 3000 albums, representing a wide range of folk, rock, blues, children and reggae music. About PorchLight Entertainment: PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children′s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has produced more than 30 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS, Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The Company is currently co-producing Animalia for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com. Contact: Georgia Scott Global Strategies, Ink (818) 432-1434 georgia@theagency.tv William Baumann PorchLight Entertainment (310) 477-8400 wbaumann@porchlight.com Jennifer Sacca Rounder Records Publicity 617-218-4503 jsacca@rounder.com
|
| JAY JAY THE JET PLANE KIDDIE RIDES LAND FRONT-AND-CENTER AT MAJOR RETAIL STORES IN THE UNITED STATES AND MEXICO |
May 15 2007
LOS ANGELES and BELLEVUE, Wash. -- May 15, 2007 -- PorchLight Entertainment and Coinstar Entertainment Services Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Coinstar, Inc. (NASDAQ:CSTR) today announced that they are developing a series of Jay Jay the Jet Plane character kiddie rides. The rides will be manufactured by Coinstar for its line of entertainment equipment. PorchLight, the producer of the classic PBS series Jay Jay the Jet Plane, will oversee the creative production of these rides.
The Jay Jay character rides will turn the tables for fans of the series and allow them to "pilot" Jay Jay and his pals from Tarrytown all while listening to theme-show music and dynamic sound effects. Coinstar plans to develop three Jay Jay themed rides including Jay Jay, Snuffy and Lina as well as a three-child ride that includes all three characters.
"We are thrilled to be working with Coinstar as a leader in bringing kiddie-rides to top retail stores and outlets in the U.S. and Mexico," said Caren Shalek, Senior Vice President Consumer Products, PorchLight Entertainment. "Children will love to fly with their favorite characters and we are excited to have a permanent presence for Jay Jay and his pals."
"We are very excited about our new relationship with PorchLight Entertainment and our ability to bring Jay Jay™ and his airplane friends to their fans," said Randy Fagundo, president of Coinstar Entertainment Services. "We are confident that kids will love this new ride and the many adventures with Jay Jay it will provide."
Coinstar will manage the operation, placement and maintenance of the rides, and expects to install approximately 200 of the Jay Jay kiddie rides beginning this summer in high-traffic retail locations. Coinstar will offer the only product line with Jay Jay kiddie rides in North America.
About Jay Jay The Jet Plane:
Jay Jay The Jet Plane, created by Deborah and David Michel, follows the adventures of a perky and curious six-year old jet plane named Jay Jay and his airplane friends who live and play at Tarrytown Airportâ„¢, a place "where imagination takes flight!" The 3-D animated television series is a successful part of PBS KIDS in the US and on other leading kids′ networks worldwide. Jay Jay The Jet Plane is produced by PorchLight Entertainment and Modern Cartoons, with PorchLight holding exclusive worldwide distribution rights. Visit Tarrytown at www.JayJay.com.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children′s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has produced more than 30 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS, Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The Company is currently co-producing Animalia for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
About Coinstar, Inc.:
Coinstar, Inc. (Nasdaq:CSTR) is a multi-national company offering a range of 4th WallTM solutions for the retailers′ front of store consisting of self-service coin counting, electronic payment solutions, entertainment services and self-service DVD rental. The company′s products and services can be found at more than 60,000 retail locations including supermarkets, drug stores, mass merchants, convenience stores, and restaurants. For more information, visit www.coinstar.com.
|
| JAY JAY THE JET PLANE CAPTIVATES IN ARGENTINA |
March 21 2007
Los Angeles, California -- March 21, 2007 -- PorchLight Entertainment recently added two additional merchandising partners for JAY JAY THE JET PLANE (Jay Jay) and its associated range of characters to its consumer product list. Publisher Ediciones B will produce a series of Jay Jay coloring/activity books and Sueno Fueguino will produce Jay Jay children′s bedding and towels.
Caren Shalek, SVP of Consumer Products for PorchLight Entertainment said, "We are very excited to announce these two additional partners to our solid roster of Jay Jay merchandise, highlighting Jay Jay′s continued popularity in Latin America. Our agent in Latin America, International Merchandising, is doing an excellent job in finding partners who understand the quality and the soul of the Jay Jay brand".
The first Jay Jay books from Publisher Ediciones B are expected to reach Argentinian shelves in the 3rd quarter of 2007. The deal with Sueno Fueguino will allow them to produce Jay Jay children′s bedding and towels which should reach Argentinian stores in the 3rd quarter of 2007. Jay Jay can currently be seen on Discovery Kids Latin America.
Each Jay Jay episode includes valuable life lessons for young children. They learn lessons about cooperation, teamwork, responsibility, and science and nature.
Jay Jay is currently seen in over 85 million households worldwide and broadcast in the U.S. on over 200 PBS TV member stations, Jay Jay can also be seen in the U.S. daily on the PBS KIDS Sprout network, a fresh, new destination devoted to preschool children and their parents and caregivers. PBS KIDS Sprout is a 24-hour preschool channel available on digital cable and satellite television and complementary video on demand (VOD) service. PBS KIDS Sprout currently has over 24 million committed subscribers.
This past year also saw the number of Jay Jay episodes increase to 90; the introduction of Lina, a new Hispanic character; the debut of the official Jay Jay the Jet Plane fan club at www.jayjay.com; as well as the opening of the first Jay Jay play area in the United States at South Bay Pavilion Mall.
Earlier this year PorchLight announced that they would produce the first Jay Jay feature length animated movie, "Jay Jay′s Race Around the World". The movie is slated for release in spring of 2008.
About Jay Jay The Jet Plane:
Jay Jay The Jet Plane, created by Deborah and David Michel, follows the adventures of a perky and curious six-year old jet plane named Jay Jay and his airplane friends who live and play at Tarrytown Airport, a place "where imagination takes flight!". The 3-D animated television series is a successful part of PBS KIDS in the US, Nine Network in Australia and on other leading kids networks worldwide, reaching over 50 countries. Jay Jay The Jet Plane is produced by PorchLight Entertainment and Modern Cartoons, with PorchLight holding exclusive worldwide distribution rights.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children′s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has produced more than 30 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS, Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The Company is currently co-producing Animalia for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
Contact:
Donna Hardwick
PorchLight Entertainment
(310) 477-8400, ext. 238
dhardwick@porchlight.com
|
| PORCHLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT TO HANDLE DISTRIBUTION AND LICENSING AND MERCHANDISING FOR NEW ANIMATED CHILDREN'S SERIES FARMkids |
March 16 2007
Los Angeles, California -- March 16, 2007 -- PorchLight Entertainment, known worldwide as a leading distributor of quality kids′ programming, is headed to this year′s MIPTV with a star struck mutt, a sports crazy bull, a power-tool packing pig, a crazy culinary goat, and a duckling that can′t swim or fly.
Created by children′s educational expert, Scott Strachan, FARMkids (season one: 26 x 12) is a new, animated children′s series (targeting 6-11 year olds) about a quirky collection of pampered, petting-zoo animals who don′t have a clue how to survive in the country when they are unexpectedly relocated to Dude Ranch.
FARMkids is a wacky and entertaining take on City Slickers meets Old MacDonald. As well as being entertaining, FARMkids also contains positive themes and messages for children.
PorchLight has the exclusive worldwide distribution rights for the series -- excluding Asia, Australia and New Zealand.
William Baumann, PorchLight′s COO says, "We′re thrilled to be selected by Scott to distribute FARMkids. It′s a fabulously funny kid′s series with wonderful characters, clever story lines and state-of-the-art CGI animation. This series will definitely connect with kids."
Using 3D animation technology, Australian based FARMkids has created a collection of unique and loveable characters that are sure to make FARMkids a hit with children and their parents. There′s MooLoo, the business savvy cow; Russ, a crow with obsessive compulsive tendencies; Frizz, the hip-hop-loving sheep; an annoying baby duckling named Bean; Gilly, a temperamental French culinary goat; a wise but forgetful rooster named Drumstick; Poppit, the clever tomboy pig; Buster, the super cool techno horse; Dumpster, the extreme sports crazy bull; a super dog named Doogie; a neurotic designer rat named Rod; and Splat, an angry red neck cat. This eclectic bunch lives a star-studded life in a popular nursery petting zoo until they are suddenly relocated to a very atypical farm in the country.
Says creator Scott Strachan, "My concept with FARMkids was to give back to children the enjoyment and excitement that I got from them in the classroom, but to do this through television across the globe. FARMkids is entertaining, and it also challenges children to ask those important questions about life, relationships and behavior that will help shape them into extraordinary human being."
About FARMkids Pty Ltd:
FARMkids is a privately funded, independent animation and creative studio based in Brisbane, Australia. The FARMkids production house specializes in leading edge 3D CGI animation for children. With its first season of the FARMkids television show nearing completion, the FARMkids team is now working on season two and the FARMkids movie special, planned for release in 2009. More information can be found at: www.farmkids.tv
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children′s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children′s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has also produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The Company is currently co-producing Animalia for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
For more information contact:
Donna Hardwick
PorchLight Entertainment
(310) 477-8400 ext. 238
dhardwick@porchlight.com
William Baumann
PorchLight Entertainment
(310) 477-8400
wbaumann@porchlight.com
|
| PORCHLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT PRESENTS $50 MILLION SLATE OF NEW PROGRAMMING AT MIPTV 2007 |
March 14 2007
Los Angeles, CA -- March 14, 2007 -- PorchLight Entertainment (PorchLight) is preparing its most impressive MIPTV slate ever, with more than $50 million of new series programming, specials and movies being offered across its Animation, Movies and Non-Fiction and Music libraries.
"We are committed to bringing to each major sales market an exciting slate of new programs and films to meet the requirements of leading networks, broadcasters and distributors worldwide," said William Baumann, Chief Operating Officer of PorchLight. "This outstanding portfolio of new programming is the best slate we have ever presented at MIPTV and is the result of our stepped-up acquisition activities over the past months."
In PorchLight′s MIPTV slate of new programming are three animated series; FARMkids (13 new episodes), My Goldfish Is Evil!, and The Adventures of Massey Ferguson; one live-action/CGI series Monster Warriors including 26 new episodes bringing the series total to 52 half hour episodes; two animated specials; and eight new movies covering a wide range of genres including family dramas, comedies and thrillers. The company′s recently launched Non-Fiction and Music Division is also bringing two theatrical documentary movies, Darkon and Crude Impact, and three series, Forever Wild (6 x 60), Travel with Kids (6 x 60), and Splash of Color (13 x 30).
The two animated specials include the one-hour CGI special Holidaze: The Christmas That Almost Didn′t Happen, with lovable character, Rusty the Reindeer (Fred Savage); and A Tad of Christmas Cheer, the first ever holiday special starring the popular Leapfrog characters, Leap, Lily, Tad and others. Leapfrog Enterprises, Inc (NYSE: LF), is a leading producer of innovative technology-based learning products.
The Company′s movie offerings include the theatrical family drama, The Ultimate Gift, recently released by FOX Faith in 816 U.S. theaters and starring an outstanding cast of James Garner, Academy Award nominee Abigail Breslin, Brian Dennehy, and Drew Fuller; Rain, based on the V.C. Andrews novel, and starring Faye Dunaway and Robert Loggia; Rhythm of Life starring Phillip Vaden, Julie Hagerty and Stephen Tobolowsky; White Air, the extreme sports drama, starring Riley Smith, Dominique Swain and Tom Sizemore; the family comedy, The Holiday Caper, starring David Coulier and Christina Pickles; and three thrillers: Cheating Fate starring Brooke Burns; Her Sisters Keeper starring Dahlia Salem and Meghan Ory; and Silent Witness starring Kelly Rutherford.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children′s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children′s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has also produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The Company is currently co-producing Animalia for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
For more information contact:
Donna Hardwick
PorchLight Entertainment
(310) 477-8400 ext. 238
dhardwick@porchlight.com
William Baumann
PorchLight Entertainment
(310) 477-8400
wbaumann@porchlight.com
|
| PorchLight Entertainment's Non-Fiction and Music Division Debuts Award-Winning Programming at MIPTV 2007 |
March 14 2007
Los Angeles, CA -- March 14, 2007 --PorchLight Entertainment′s recently-launched Non-Fiction and Music Division brings a strong lineup of new titles to MIPTV, including two award-winning documentary features, Crude Impact and Darkon; and three new series, Forever Wild, Splash of Color and Travel With Kids. Under the leadership of Doug Zwick, PorchLight′s newest division has attracted an impressive roster of award-winning documentaries and series. Since the unit was established last year, PorchLight′s non-fiction catalog has expanded to over 150 hours of programming. "When we made this announcement last year about Doug joining the PorchLight team we had no doubts this would be a great fit," said Bruce Johnson, PorchLight′s President and CEO. "Under Doug′s leadership, the new documentary and music division has become an important addition to the Company′s distribution capabilities. These quality theatrical documentaries are an example of our commitment to bring exceptional programs to leading networks and broadcasters worldwide." PorchLight Entertainment will premiere a select list of new documentary and non-fiction properties at this year′s MIPTV Conference: DOCUMENTARY FEATURES Crude Impact (1 x 98) This powerful and timely story deftly explores the interconnection between human domination of the planet and the discovery and use of oil. This multiple award-winning theatrical documentary film exposes our deep-rooted dependency on the availability of fossil fuel energy and examines the future implications of peak oil - the point in time when the amount of petroleum worldwide begins a steady, inexorable decline. Journeying from the West African delta region to the heart of the Amazon rainforest, from Washington to Shanghai, from early man to the unknown future, Crude Impact chronicles the collision of our insatiable appetite for oil with the rights and livelihoods of indigenous cultures, other species and the planet itself. It is a thought-provoking story filled with discovery, sorrow, outrage, humor and ultimately, hope. Darkon (1 x 90) High Definition Darkon is an insightful, moving, and often very funny, theatrical reality feature about a unique realm within the extraordinary worldwide phenomenon of Live Action Role Playing. Unlike the computer combat of Dungeons and Dragons, Darkonian battles are fought LIVE on the real world football fields, pastures and forests of a modern-day suburb, re-imagined as a medieval world called Darkon. Each player creates their own permanent Darkon character, and that character grows and changes just like in real life. More than just an inside look at a live action game played in an imaginary world, this entertaining film comments on the roles we all play in our daily lives and celebrates the inner workings of a culture that lies just beneath the surface of our everyday lives. While the game of Darkon is like improvisational street theater played as a contact sport, the movie Darkon is essentially a feature length docusoap following the players′ lives both in and out of character. NON-FICTION SERIES Forever Wild (6 x 60) Hosted by popular actor and environmental supporter Ted Danson, each episode of this six-part documentary series depicts the dramatic stories behind the efforts to preserve some of America′s most wondrous landscapes. From Yellowstone to the Grand Canyon to Cape Cod, you′ll visit the Native Americans who first dwelled in those regions. From Yosemite to the Adirondacks to the Everglades, you′ll travel with the explorers who adventurously stepped onto these untamed lands. Paintings and photographs are juxtaposed against magnificent original footage to evoke the splendor of each park. Roderick Nash, Professor Emeritus of Environmental History, sheds light on our ever-evolving relationship with the natural environment, and articulates how, in wilderness, we may discover a deeper understanding of ourselves. Travel With Kids (6 x 60) Join the Roberts Family as they explore the world in this award-winning Travel With Kids series. Explore ancient Polynesia at the City of Refuge in Hawaii or trek into the rain forest in El Yunque in Puerto Rico. By integrating surprising historical and natural facts into an entertaining presentation, the series takes viewers on an educational journey. There′s a lot to talk about after each show. Each episode also shares tips on traveling with children, from what to pack to pre-trip activities to delight all ages. Explore, relax, and enjoy. Traveling with kids really can be fun, and Travel With Kids is a great way to start! Splash of Color (13 x 30) High Definition By its very format, Splash of Color moves beyond any other previous painting show. Is it a travel show that encompasses painting? Or, is it a painting show that encompasses travel? It′s both and neither. It′s a unique amalgamation of the two that will hold the interest of a wide audience of painters and non-painters alike. In each episode renowned painter Robert Hagan travels an exotic location to explore and paint an endangered species or extraordinary cultural site. In 30 fun minutes, Splash of Color gives an insight into what inspires and drives the passion to create while at the same time showcasing this amazing and spectacular world we live in. About PorchLight Entertainment: PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children′s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has built a large and diverse distribution library of nearly 200 movies, over 1,000 episodes of children′s programs and a growing non-fiction and music programming library. PorchLight has also produced more than 40 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe; Jay Jay the Jet Plane for PBS; Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company. The Company is currently co-producing Animalia for the BBC, PBS, Nickelodeon and Network Ten in Australia and CBC in Canada; Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD market. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com. For more information contact: Donna Hardwick PorchLight Entertainment (310) 477-8400 ext. 238 dhardwick@porchlight.com William Baumann PorchLight Entertainment (310) 477-8400 wbaumann@porchlight.com
|
| PORCHLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT ACQUIRES NORTH AMERICAN TELEVISION AND ALL INTERNATIONAL DISTRIBUTION RIGHTS TO THE ULTIMATE GIFT BASED ON BEST-SELLING NOVEL BY AUTHOR JIM STOVALL |
February 2 2007
Los Angeles, California – February 2, 2007 – The Independent Producers Alliance, The Ultimate Gift, LLC and PorchLight Entertainment jointly announced today that PorchLight, award-winning producer and international distributor of high-end family entertainment, will handle the North American television (to include Pay TV and internet) and all international distribution rights of the feature film The Ultimate Gift. The film was produced by Rick Eldridge (Bobby Jones: Stroke of Genius) from The Film Foundry and directed by Michael O. Sajbel (One Night With the King). The Ultimate Gift is based on the best-selling novel, of the same name, from author Jim Stovall and has sold more than three million copies worldwide and been translated into 14 languages. Stovall’s 12 “gifts” – of work, money, friends, learning, problems, family, laughter, dreams, giving, gratitude, a day and love –deliver the message that “life is one’s most valuable asset.”
The Ultimate Gift will be released by FOX Faith on March 9, 2007 in 550 theaters and is composed of a well-known and respected cast including James Garner, Brian Dennehy, Drew Fuller (Charmed), 2007 Oscar nominee Abigail Breslin (Little Miss Sunshine), Ali Hillis (Must Love Dogs) and Bill Cobbs. Breslin and the cast from Little Miss Sunshine received top honors at Sunday’s Screen Actors Guild (SAG) Awards, for best ensemble cast performance.
According to producer Rick Eldridge from The Film Foundry, “We are excited to have PorchLight represent The Ultimate Gift as we expand the reach of this great story throughout the world. This film, which speaks to the concept of legacy and life values, is a perfect match for PorchLight and the type of family programming they produce and distribute.”
Karen Roberts, Senior VP of Acquisitions for PorchLight Entertainment added, “The Ultimate Gift comes from the talented producers Rick Eldridge, John Shepherd and Cleve Landsberg at Life (n) Media and The Independent Producers Alliance. The film is a perfect fit for PorchLight’s lineup of high quality films for our distributors worldwide. The Ultimate Gift is a story about a transformational journey that will motivate its audience to evaluate their own values while offering an inspiring message of philanthropy and volunteerism. This compelling film has marvelous performances, particularly Drew Fuller and Abigail Breslin, which will touch audiences world wide.”
Jason Stevens, played by Drew Fuller (Charmed), thought his inheritance was going to be the gift of money and lots of it. But he is in for a big surprise. Based on the best-selling book, “The Ultimate Gift” by Jim Stovall, the story sends spoiled trust funder Jason on an improbable journey of discovery, having to answer the ultimate question: “What is the relationship between wealth and happiness?”
Jason has a very simple relationship with his impossibly wealthy Grandfather, Howard “Red” Stevens (James Garner). He hated him. No heart-to-heart talks, no warm fuzzies, just a source of cold hard cash. So he figured that when Red died, the whole “reading of the will thing” would be another simple cash transaction, enabling him to continue living in the lifestyle to which he had become accustomed. But what Red left him was anything but simple. Red instead devised a plan for Jason to experience a crash course in life. The twelve tasks, which Red calls “gifts,” each challenge Jason in an improbable way, the accumulation of which will change him forever.
“This film is a perfect fit for PorchLight,” said Bruce Johnson, PorchLight President and CEO. “It’s a strong story, a great cast and a wonderfully executed film on every level. We’re excited to bring The Ultimate Gift to viewers throughout the world.”
Roberts and her team have been working aggressively to identify and pursue films like The Ultimate Gift¸ along with series and other programming that support PorchLight’s strategy of acquiring quality projects for TV networks and broadcasters, home entertainment distributors and mobile content purveyors, VOD and other new media distributors.
The Ultimate Gift is backed by a somewhat unlikely partner – Stanford Financial Group, a wealth management firm. In several markets across the country, Stanford is partnering with non-profit foundations and philanthropic groups to host pre-release premieres of the movie for those who are in a position to make a real difference. The premieres are aimed at raising the dialogue and encouraging increased activity in the realm of philanthropy. Stanford, as a company, has made it a priority to “give back” and strengthen communities. The message of the book caused the financial services company to invest in the big screen adaptation of The Ultimate Gift.
About PorchLight Entertainment
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children’s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has produced the Emmy Award-winning animated series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix (formerly Fox Kids Europe), Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS KIDS, the animated children’s series Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, Four Eyes for France 3 and Nickelodeon Asia and the animated long form movies The Night Before Christmas: A Mouse Tale, The Haunted Pumpkin of Sleepy Hollow, and Christmas Dinosaur. PorchLight is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS, CBBC, and Network Ten and Nickelodeon in Australia and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company, among other productions. PorchLight Entertainment can be found at www.porchlight.com.
Independent Producers Alliance (IPA):
IPA champions the work of award-winning independent producers who make films that inspire people to good things. IPA is based in Charlotte, North Carolina, where it operates a state-of-the-art production and post-production facility, as well as its administration and distribution service units. Other IPA projects scheduled for release in the coming year include Running the Sahara, a documentary feature film narrated and Executive Produced by Matt Damon and directed by Oscar-winner James Moll.
About Stanford Financial Group:
Stanford Financial Group is a privately held, wholly owned global group of financial services companies founded by Lodis B. Stanford in 1932. Stanford′s core businesses are private wealth management and investment banking for institutions and emerging growth companies. Stanford offers private and institutional investors global expertise in asset allocation strategies, investment advisory services, equity research, international private banking and trust administration, commercial banking, investment banking, merchant banking, institutional sales and trading, real estate investment and insurance. Stanford serves clients from 126 countries on six continents. Securities products and services offered through Stanford Group Company, member NASD/SIPC. More information on the company can be found at www.stanfordfinancial.com
For more information contact:
Donna Hardwick
PorchLight Entertainment
PH: 310-477-8400 ext. 238
dhardwick@porchlight.com
|
| PORCHLIGHT TO SPOTLIGHT "DARKON" A MULTI-FILM FESTIVAL FAVORITE DOC, AT NATPE |
January 8 2007
Los Angeles, CA -- January 20, 2007 -- Already a must-see at major film festivals and screening worldwide, and a soon-to-be theatrical release at select theatres nationwide, DARKON, PorchLight Entertainment′s newly acquired reality keystone will be made available for the first time at NATPE 2007. Doug Zwick, founder of Pop Twist and head of PorchLight′s recently formed non-fiction and music division, negotiated the acquisition on behalf of the company. According to William Baumann, PorchLight′s COO, "DARKON is an rare documentary that offers the production quality of a fine feature film and the high-end action of a scripted drama catapulted to the screen through the lives, imagination and real-life adventures today′s action seekers. This is a property that will keep viewers entranced whether in the theatre or on the TV screen and we are thrilled to introduce it at NATPE." Having received high accolades from director Bennett Miller ("Capote") . . . a great little film that reveals the often private aggression and fantasies of civilized everyday people and writer/producer John Fusco ("Hidalgo") . . . a compelling blend of fantasy narrative and social documentary . . . it intrigues, illuminates and disturbs all at once, DARKON will be featured throughout January on AOL′s True Stories website. A SeeThink/Ovie Entertainment Production, DARKON, touted as ethnography on a grand cinematic canvas, is an 84-minute documentary feature that follows the real-life adventures of an unusual group of weekend "warrior knights", fantasy role-playing gamers whose live action "battleground" is modern-day Baltimore, Maryland, re-imagined as a make-believe medieval world named Darkon where everybody want to be a hero. Numbering up to 300, these live action gamers as a full-contact medieval fantasy war-gaming group, combine the physical drama of historical re-enactments with character-driven storylines inspired in part by such perennial favorite fantasy epics as the legends of King Arthur, Lord of the Rings, and the saga of Conan the Barbarian. As role players, these gamers create alter egos with rich emotional, psychological, and social lives. They costume themselves and physically act out their characters′ exploits both in intimate court intrigue and campouts and in panoramic battle scenarios involving competitive strategies, convincingly real props, and full contact "combat" to fight non-choreographed mock battles with padded weaponry. Like any contact sport involving multiple players and personas, Darkon is governed by extensive rules, customs and traditions that are officiated on the field by elder players and marshals. These rules and customs, and much more about Darkon, can be found at www.darkon.org. About PorchLight Entertainment PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment and licensing and merchandising representation for children′s and family brands and trademarks. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has produced more than 30 live-action and animated movies and major animated series including the Emmy Award-winning series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix Europe, Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS, Four Eyes for France 3, Nickelodeon Asia and Nickelodeon Australia; and Adventures from The Book of Virtues for PBS, and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading educational toy company. In addition to ANIMALIA, the Company is currently producing Secret Saturdays for Cartoon Network; A Tad of Christmas Cheer for Leapfrog, and a line-up of live-action and animated movies for the international television and DVD markets. For more information, visit www.porchlight.com.
|
| BRAINYTOYS ACQUIRES LICENCE FOR PORCHLIGHT ENTERTAINMENT’S JAY JAY THE JET PLANE AND HIS FRIENDS |
January 2 2007
January 2, 2007 -- Brainytoys Limited (ASX Code: BRT) (Brainytoys) is very pleased to announce that it has signed a licensing agreement with PorchLight Entertainment, Inc. (PorchLight) for JAY JAY THE JET PLANE™ (Jay Jay) and its associated range of characters.
Mr. Aguero, Managing Director of Brainytoys said, “We are very pleased to have secured this License for Jay Jay and his friends. With the launch of the animated movie next year we believe that Jay Jay and his friends will enjoy a significant boost to their already substantial and growing popularity. Brainytoys is very excited to be developing a broad range of innovative products for this dynamic and very entertaining children’s series.”
"PorchLight is very excited about our new partnership with Brainytoys," said Caren Shalek, SVP of Consumer Products. "With the recent debut of exciting new television episodes, the addition of Lina, and the launch of our new fan club, we expect Jay Jay to continue to soar to new heights. Brainytoys is launching a line of new and innovative products into the market and we are thrilled that these products will be part of the Jay Jay licensing program. “
The licensing agreement allows Brainytoys to produce and distribute a broad range of electronic and remote control toys, computer games, plug-and-play games and other associated electronic products for sale to the U.S. and Canadian Markets based on Jay Jay and his Tarrytown pals.
The first Jay Jay product lines from Brainytoys are expected to reach U.S. and Canadian retail shelves in the second quarter of 2007.
Jay Jay the Jet Plane is a TV series that follows the exciting adventures of a perky and curious six-year-old jet plane, Jay Jay, and his airplane friends. They live and play at Tarrytown Airport, a place where imagination takes flight!™
Each Jay Jay episode includes valuable life lessons for young children. They learn important lessons about cooperation, teamwork, responsibility, and science and nature.
Jay Jay is currently seen in over 85 million households worldwide and broadcast in the U.S. on over 200 PBS TV member stations, Jay Jay can also be seen in the U.S. daily on the recently launched PBS KIDS Sprout network, a fresh, new destination devoted to preschool children and their parents and caregivers. PBS KIDS Sprout is a 24-hour preschool channel available on digital cable and satellite television and complementary video on demand (VOD) service. PBS KIDS Sprout currently has over 24 million committed subscribers.
This past year also saw the number of Jay Jay episodes increase to 90; the introduction of Lina, a new Hispanic character; as well as the debut of the official Jay Jay the Jet Plane fan club at www.jayjay.com.
Earlier this year PorchLight announced that they would produce the first Jay Jay feature length animated movie, "Jay Jay′s Race Around the World". The movie is slated for release in spring of 2008.
About Jay Jay the Jet Plane:
Jay Jay The Jet Plane, created by Deborah and David Michel, follows the adventures of a perky and curious six-year old jet plane named Jay Jay and his airplane friends who live and play at Tarrytown Airport™, a place “where imagination takes flight! ™.” The 3-D animated television series is a successful part of PBS KIDS in the US, Channel Five in the UK and on other leading kids networks worldwide, reaching over 100 countries. Jay Jay The Jet Plane is produced by PorchLight Entertainment and Modern Cartoons, with PorchLight holding exclusive worldwide distribution rights.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran entertainment executives Bruce D. Johnson and William T. Baumann, PorchLight has produced the Emmy award-winning animated series, Tutenstein, for Discovery Kids and Jetix (formerly Fox Kids Europe), Jay Jay The Jet Plane for PBS KIDS, the animated children’s series Adventures from The Book of Virtues (PBS KIDS), Four Eyes for France 3 and Nickelodeon Asia and the animated long form movies The Night Before Christmas: A Mouse Tale, The Haunted Pumpkin of Sleepy Hollow, and Christmas Dinosaur. PorchLight is currently co-producing Animalia for PBS, CBBC, and Network Ten and Nickelodeon in Australia and a series of direct-to-videos for Leapfrog, the leading electronic toy company, among other productions. PorchLight Entertainment can be found at www.porchlight.com.
About Brainytoys Limited:
Brainytoys (www.brainytoys.com), headquartered in Perth Western Australia, is a global toy and game development company with a growing portfolio of over 50 products targeting various segments of the world’s toy and game industry, with an emphasis on electronics and software technology.
Listed under the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX) symbol BRT in March 2005 as the first and only public toy and game development issue on the Australian Stock Exchange, Brainytoys is emerging as a highly praised source of creative, innovative, new generation products for the world’s toy and game markets and global consumers.
For further information contact:
Alex Aguero, Managing Director
Brainytoys Limited
Ph: (08) 9331 8441
alexa@brainytoys.com
Donna Hardwick
PorchLight Entertainment
(310) 477-8400 ext. 238 DHardwick@PorchLight.com
|
| JAY JAY THE JET PLANE ™ UNVEILS ITS FIRST PLAY AREA LANDING AT THE SOUTHBAY PAVILION IN CARSON, CALIFORNIA |
December 18 2006
Los Angeles, CA – December 18, 2006 – PorchLight Entertainment’s spirited preschool animated series Jay Jay The Jet Plane continues to expand its branding and licensing platform with the first Jay Jay The Jet Plane™ themed play area that debuted at the SouthBay Pavilion mall in Carson, California. On December 2, 2006, SouthBay Pavilion, PorchLight Entertainment and PLAYTIME, LLC celebrated their partnership with the opening of the Jay Jay The Jet Plane themed “Pavilion Playtown” play area. PLAYTIME, LLC is the leading manufacturer of soft foam play areas.
“We really wanted to find something more permanent and in place in a community,” says William Baumann, PorchLight’s COO. “We also wanted to find a way that kids and fans could interact with the Jay Jay characters. What better way than a play area where kids can, in a creative and fun way, ride on Jay Jay, slide down the control tower, and run down the Tarrytown runway?”
The play area grand opening is a landmark in SouthBay Pavilion’s two-year renovation project. Adriel Person, SouthBay Pavilion Marketing Manager says the play area is phenomenal.
“[It] speaks to our growing commitment to creating a family friendly shopping environment”, says Person. “We are proud to be able to partner with PorchLight entertainment on the first ever Jay Jay the Jet Plane themed play area and we look forward to a long fruit full relationship with PorchLight in the future.”
The family fun filled day included a special costume appearance by Jay Jay who took photos with his young fans. In fact, “one woman drove over an hour from Antelope Valley to make sure that her child had the opportunity to meet with his favorite character [Jay Jay],” says Person.
In addition, several Carson City officials including the Mayor and two city council members came to lend their support. Give-a-ways, prize packages, coloring sheets, music, free food and refreshments were made available to the hundreds of guests who showed up to welcome Jay Jay to the SouthBay Pavilion. Local PBS station KCET provided support for the event as well mall retailers such as Sears, Baskin Robbins, Chuck E. Cheese, Jamba Juice, Hot Dog on a Stick, Coffee Bean and Tea Leaf, California Grill, and Mrs. Fields Cookies.
The Jay Jay themed play areas are part of a larger outreach campaign PorchLight is developing to reach Jay Jay’s pint size fans which includes PBS events appearances and outreach with local museums and libraries leading up to new episodes in Fall 2007.
About Jay Jay the Jet Plane:
Jay Jay The Jet Plane, created by Deborah and David Michel, follows the adventures of a perky and curious six-year old jet plane named Jay Jay and his airplane friends who live and play at Tarrytown Airport™, a place “where imagination takes flight! ™.” The 3-D animated television series is a successful part of PBS KIDS in the US, Channel Five in the UK and on other leading kids networks worldwide, reaching over 100 countries. Jay Jay The Jet Plane is produced by PorchLight Entertainment and Modern Cartoons, with PorchLight holding exclusive worldwide distribution rights.
About PorchLight Entertainment:
PorchLight Entertainment is a multi-faceted company focused on the production and distribution of high-quality family entertainment. Since its formation in 1995 by veteran enter | |
]