Global web television network services provider Netflix Inc. (NFLX) said it signed a multi-year agreement with DreamWorks Animation (DWA), the makers of movies and animated feature films, for new original TV series. The tieup would help Netflix to premier original first-run entertainment content from the producers of global blockbusters 'Shrek,' 'Madagascar,' 'Kung Fu Panda' and 'How to Train your Dragon.' The companies have not revealed the financial aspects of the deal and details of the series.
According to Netflix, it is for the first time that DreamWorks Animation's beloved franchises and characters to be introduced into the television market as a branded collection of shows. The largest deal of Netflix for original content will encompasse more than 300 hours of new production. The series would include DreamWorks' popular animated characters.
Netflix expects to premiering the new shows by 2014 to its subscribers in the U.S., Canada, Latin America and Europe.
Netflix Chief Content Officer Ted Sarandos said, "DreamWorks Animation is a valued partner in our global efforts to provide families the most engaging stories delivered however, whenever and wherever they want. This deal represents a major expansion of what's already a phenomenal relationship, allowing us to bring beloved DreamWorks characters to the 40 countries where Netflix operates and setting the stage for us to innovate together as we expand into new markets."
Jeffrey Katzenberg, chief executive officer of DreamWorks Animation noted that it is a thrill to add to the growing momentum of Netflix, that continues to redefine the way audiences watch television.
Earlier in February, Netflix has announced a deal to create Netflix Original Series for kids, based on DreamWorks Animation's movie Turbo, premiering on July 17. Turbo F.A.S.T, an episodic animated series which picks up with the speedy snail where the feature film left off, will be available in all Netflix territories beginning in December.
Netflix has also grabbed exclusive U.S. and Latin American rights of 'The Croods,' an animation feature film which grossed more than $575 million at the worldwide box office. In addition, DreamWorks will also provide the big screen adaption of Mr. Peabody and Sherman to Netflix viewers.
The kids section of Netflix is a commercial free content, with ratings and reviews from Common Sense Media. Netflix's license with Viacom has expired in May for a popular kids show 'Dora the Explorer.'
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