Navarre Corporation, a leading publisher and distributor of a broad range of home entertainment and multimedia software products, today announced that its wholly-owned subsidiary, BCI Eclipse Company, LLC (“BCI”), has acquired certain exclusive distribution rights to Entertainment Rights’ classic animation series He-Man and the Masters of the Universe and The New Adventures of He-Man.
Under the terms of this agreement, BCI will exclusively promote and distribute both classic animated series on DVD throughout the U.S. and Canada. The first release will be a “10 Best Episode” 2 DVD set from the original He-Man and the Masters of the Universe series which is scheduled to be launched at retail in July 2005 in conjunction with the 2005 San Diego Comic-Con International convention. This release will be followed later in the fall of 2005 with the first of multiple DVD box sets of the complete series in “season” format, plus comprehensive and generous special features.
He-Man and the Masters of the Universe is a landmark in children’s television history, being the first nationally syndicated television program based on a successful toy line. Originally produced from 1983-1985 by world renowned Filmation studios and syndicated until 1990, He-Man and the Masters of the Universe has experienced consistent popularity over the years, demonstrated by its two subsequent animated series which aired in 1990 – 1991 and 2002 – 2004 as well as its multi-year run as an exceptionally successful toy and merchandising line for Mattel.
Greg Glass, Sr. VP at BCI, stated, “BCI is thrilled with the opportunity to bring these classic animated series to DVD for the first time in North America. Our acquisitions team has been focused on this property for quite some time based on its 25+ year history of being one of the strongest and most collectible toy and animation properties ever produced. BCI intends to give each DVD release the historical treatment it deserves.”
Glass continued, “With He-Man and the Masters of the Universe, we build on our reputation for bringing classic and collectible programming to DVD, but we expand that focus to an even larger and more valuable licensed property. We are excited about this new added focus towards truly frontline collectible releases.”
Mike Heap, CEO, Entertainment Rights, added, “We are extremely pleased to be partnering with BCI, who are recognized for their expertise in the marketing and distribution of home entertainment properties. He-Man is the second significant agreement Entertainment Rights has concluded since acquiring the Filmation library and we look forward to a rewarding partnership with BCI on He-Man and Masters of the Universe.”
Source: Navarre Corporation
