MUMBAI: Television format creator and distributor Endemol has partnered with Kuwait-based publishing group Teshkeel Media to bring to life a new animated series based on its superhero comic books, The 99.
The 99 comic book series launched in 2006 and is illustrated and scripted by former and current Marvel and DC Comics writers and artists whose credits include X-Men, Spider-Man, Superman, Iron Man, Batman and Power Rangers.
The comics have been endorsed by the international media. They are distributed widely throughout the Middle East, South Asia and Indonesia. THE 99 will soon make its debut on millions of water bottles licensed by Nestle Waters. Further, the first of six The 99 Village theme parks is due to open in Kuwait in early 2009.
Endemol COO Marco Bassetti says, “We are looking forward to partnering with Teshkeel to bring to life this popular comic book series, which has been well received in the Middle East, South Asia and Indonesia. The comic has captured the imaginations of young people and we hope to achieve equal success internationally with the animated series.”
Teshkeel Media founder CEO Dr Naif Al Mutawa, who also created The 99 said, “It’s rare that an idea born of a social premise can become even more successful as a business. But when THE 99 comics premiered to the acclaim of the worldwide media and the delight of the children they were created to entertain, that is just what happened.
Bringing The 99 to homes around the world through its animated stories will fully implement the power of an idea whose time has come. And doing this in partnership with Endemol, a true world leader in worldwide syndicated television, will ensure our success.”
Production for the series will be overseen by Endemol UK, with animation to be completed in India and post production in the UK. Endemol International will have worldwide TV, online, mobile and DVD distribution rights to the original property.
