TOYS“R”US® TO LAUNCH NEW STAR WARS™ SAGA PRODUCTS WITH MIDNIGHT OPENING EVENTS WORLDWIDE
The Next Chapter of the Legendary Franchise Begins at Toys“R”Us Stores Across the Globe on Force Friday, September 4 at 12:01am as Fans Get First Access to New Toys, Exclusive Giveaways and More
Company’s International Flagship Store in Times Square to Host Historic Star Wars Toy Exhibition and Ultimate Midnight Opening Celebration
WAYNE, NJ – Toys“R”Us® is going into hyperdrive and preparing an out-of-this-galaxy, global celebration for the upcoming debut of toys based on the next chapter of the Star Wars™ Saga at 12:01am on Force Friday, September 4, 2015. Counting down to the highly anticipated toy launch and this fall’s new theatrical release, Toys“R”Us stores worldwide and Toysrus.com have transformed into Destination: Star Wars, every fan’s retail source for The Force with hundreds of new products, including those only available at Toys“R”Us. On Force Friday, Toys“R”Us stores around the globe will open their doors for special midnight opening festivities, providing customers of all ages the opportunity to be among the first to purchase must-have merchandise, receive exclusive giveaways and immerse themselves in all things Star Wars. The company’s international flagship store, Toys“R”Us Times Square in New York City, will host a historic Star Wars toy exhibition leading up to the grandest midnight opening celebration of all, welcoming legions of eager fans with costumed characters, signing events, giveaways and more all day on Thursday, September 3, 2015.
“Since the introduction of the first Star Wars toy in 1977, Toys“R”Us has served as the ultimate destination for Star Wars playthings, providing millions of kids and collectors worldwide with their most beloved memorabilia,” said Richard Barry, Executive Vice President, Global Chief Merchandising Officer, Toys“R”Us, Inc. “Since then, Star Wars has become a time-honored franchise with loyal fan interest, making it a perennial, top-selling licensed property. With the upcoming introduction of the new Star Wars toy line, we’re excited to welcome the next generation of fans into our stores around the world with exclusive products, special events, feature shops and giveaways.”
Toys“R”Us to Help Fans Worldwide Build Their Toy Empires
With operations in 38 countries, Toys“R”Us is leveraging its global footprint and position as the toy authority to provide an unprecedented Star Wars experience worldwide. On Force Friday, September 4, Toys“R”Us locations in Australia, Canada, China, France, Germany, Japan, Poland, Portugal, Spain and the U.K, will open at 12:01am to welcome eager shoppers. The first customers to line up for the big product debut will receive Star Wars giveaways, including an exclusive poster, as well as the chance to be among the first to purchase exclusive Star Wars merchandise in dedicated front-of-store feature shops.
Leading up to Force Friday, stores in each of these countries will count down the minutes to 12:01am on September 4 with digital clocks, as well as Star Wars-themed microsites on each of their respective e-commerce pages. Social media users can follow the company’s worldwide midnight openings on each country’s social media channels, as well as via the Toys“R”Us U.S. Twitter channel, @Toysrus.
Midnight Openings Descend on Destination: Star Wars in the U.S.
When the clock strikes 12:01am on September 4, all Toys“R”Us stores in the U.S. will open their doors, giving customers the opportunity to be among the first to purchase hundreds of new Star Wars playthings, including a wide variety of merchandise they can’t find anywhere else.* As an added bonus, little Jedi Knights and their families attending midnight opening events will have the chance to receive special giveaways, including a limited edition LEGO® Star Wars Commemorative Brick and an exclusive Star Wars poster, while supplies last.** Also at midnight on Force Friday, shoppers will be able to browse and purchase the new products online at Toysrus.com/StarWars.
Those eager to count down to the highly anticipated toy debut can now find digital clocks at all Toys“R”Us locations nationwide and online at Toysrus.com/DestinationStarWars. Beginning on Force Friday, dedicated Star Wars feature shops will be found at the front of all stores nationwide, featuring a combination of figures, construction sets, accessories and more, plus updated countdown clocks reset to tick off the minutes to the release of the new movie.
Additionally, gamers can now preorder Star Wars Battlefront™, the ultimate Star Wars video game experience, along with Disney Infinity 3.0 Star Wars, at Toys“R”Us stores nationwide and online at Toysrus.com/StarWars.
For the latest Destination: Star Wars news and updates, fanatics can follow @ToysRUs on Instagram and Twitter, as well as Facebook.com/Toysrus. Followers are encouraged to post photos of their Star Wars toy empire, themselves dressed in their best Star Wars cosplay and their midnight opening experience, as well as engage with one another and Toys“R”Us using #DestinationStarWars.
The Force is Strong at Toys“R”Us Times Square
The biggest midnight opening celebration will take place at the company’s international flagship store in New York City, Toys“R”Us Times Square, where fans of all ages are encouraged to come dressed as their favorite Star Wars character and take part in dozens of one-of-a-kind activities designed especially for Star Wars aficionados.***
The World’s Greatest Toy Store™ is kicking the party off early with a special exhibition featuring prototypes, originals and early editions of some of the best-known Star Wars toys in the world, curated by Rancho Obi-Wan, Inc., a non-profit museum that houses the Guinness World Record-certified largest collection of Star Wars memorabilia. Presented prominently throughout the store, “Destination: Star Wars – The Experience,” will be on display from Wednesday, August 26 through Monday, September 7 and will feature dozens of notable collectibles based on all six feature films from the Star Wars Saga, including the original first four mail-away action figures from 1978, a large-sized Chewbacca figure in never publicly-released The Empire Strikes Back packaging from Kenner Products and a rare 2003 LEGO Star Wars Cloud City building set.****
The adventure kicks into high gear on Thursday, September 3, when the store hosts Star Wars activities throughout the day, beginning at 9am****, including:
· A book signing and meet and greet with Steve Sansweet, Chief Executive Officer and President of Rancho Obi-Wan, Inc., storied Star Wars author and former Head of Fan Relations and Director of Content Management at Lucasfilm Ltd.
· An art class and meet and greet with fan-favorite Star Wars and science fiction artist, Jeff Carlisle.
· Star Wars product demonstrations and activations throughout the store, including Star Wars-themed 3-D action figure creation with 3D Plus Me, video gaming on Disney Infinity 3.0 Star Wars kiosks and experiencing intergalactic sound on Star Wars-themed headphones powered by SMS Audio.
· A LEGO Star Wars make and take for rebels looking to build their toy empire brick by brick.
· A Light Saber Academy with members of New York Jedi, a community of cosplayers, martial artists and teachers who share practical stage combat techniques oriented toward Light Sabers.
· Photo opportunities with costumed characters, including Furbacca, a character versioned after the Hasbro® toy that makes wookiee sounds like CHEWBACCA, Geoffrey the Giraffe and more.
· Ice cream flavors inspired by the Star Wars Saga from Scoops“R”Us™, the flagship store’s in-house ice cream shop located on the Lower Level.
· Star Wars-themed cookie decorating at a “Wookiee” Cookie Party on Level 1.
· Special giveaways for the first fans in line, including a Collector’s Edition LEGO Star Wars Commemorative Brick, an exclusive, limited edition Star Wars poster and a Star Wars Character Flashlight from JAKKS Pacific.***
· Star Wars trivia, a costume contest and a galaxy of excitement and prizes, while supplies last, for those fanatics waiting in line.
· A panel discussion with Steve Sansweet and Jeff Carlisle for select lucky fans, which will also be livestreamed via Periscope @Toysrus on Twitter.
· The ultimate unveiling of the official Toys“R”Us Times Square Star Wars feature shop at 12:01am on Force Friday, September 4.
*Toys“R”Us stores in the U.S. will open at 12:01am local time on Friday, September 4, except for stores in Paramus, NJ, which have varying store open times due to local ordinances. Toys“R”Us Express and Outlet locations generally follow the hours of their respective shopping centers. All store hours can be found online at www.Toysrus.com/StoreLocator.
**Event open to all ages. Parental supervision required at all times. All giveaways and event materials available while supplies last and distributed to event participants only. Limit one per person. Quantities limited; no rain checks. Giveaway quantities vary by store.
***Event open to all ages. Parental supervision required at all times. All giveaways and event materials available while supplies last and distributed to event participants only. Limit one per person. Quantities limited; no rain checks.
****Toy enthusiasts can view the entire listing of products featured in “Destination: Star Wars – The Experience” and a full schedule of Toys“R”Us Times Square events, including times, online at the company’s Times Square Store Special Events page.
About Toys“R”Us, Inc.
Toys“R”Us, Inc. is the world’s leading dedicated toy and baby products retailer, offering a differentiated shopping experience through its family of brands. Merchandise is sold in 864 Toys“R”Us and Babies“R”Us stores in the United States, Puerto Rico and Guam, and in more than 730 international stores and over 240 licensed stores in 37 countries and jurisdictions. In addition, it exclusively operates the legendary FAO Schwarz brand and sells extraordinary toys at FAO.com. With its strong portfolio of e-commerce sites including Toysrus.com, Babiesrus.com and FAO.com, it provides shoppers with a broad online selection of distinctive toy and baby products. Headquartered in Wayne, NJ, Toys“R”Us, Inc. employs approximately 66,000 associates annually worldwide. The company is committed to serving its communities as a caring and reputable neighbor through programs dedicated to keeping kids safe and helping them in times of need. Additional information about Toys“R”Us, Inc. can be found on Toysrusinc.com. Follow Toys“R”Us, Babies“R”Us and FAO Schwarz on Facebook at Facebook.com/Toysrus, Facebook.com/Babiesrus and Facebook.com/FAO and on Twitter at Twitter.com/Toysrus, Twitter.com/Babiesrus and Twitter.com/FAOSchwarz.
STAR WARS and related properties are trademarks and/or copyrights, in the United States and other countries, of Lucasfilm Ltd. and/or its affiliates. © & TM Lucasfilm Ltd.
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Saturday, August 8, 2015
Friday, August 7, 2015
Sony Pictures Announces Dates for 16 Films in 2016 and 2017
SONY PICTURES ENTERTAINMENT DATES 16 FILMS FOR 2016 AND 2017 SLATES
CULVER CITY, Calif. – Sony Pictures Entertainment today unveiled release dates for 16 films for the studio’s 2016 and 2017 slates.
The additions compose a diverse, globally oriented mix of films, including new films with franchise potential (The Dark Tower, Uncharted, Patient Zero), established franchises (Bad Boys 3 and 4, Resident Evil, Underworld), adaptations of strong and beloved source material (The Magnificent Seven, Jumanji, Barbie), and daring original films (Passengers, Money Monster, The Shallows, Baby Driver, The Lamb).
These films join numerous projects already on the studio’s slate, including Ghostbusters (which moves up one week to 7/15/16), the next Spider-Man film (7/28/17), The Equalizer 2 (9/29/17), Dan Brown’s Inferno (10/14/16), Ang Lee’s Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk (11/11/16), and the animated Spider-Man film masterminded by Phil Lord & Christopher Miller (7/20/18.)
The full list of films and their release dates added to the slate includes:
Money Monster – 4/8/16
The Shallows – 6/24/16
Ghostbusters – 7/15/16*
Patient Zero – 9/2/16
The Magnificent Seven – 9/23/16*
Underworld 5 – 10/21/16
Passengers – 12/21/16
Jumanji – 12/25/16
The Dark Tower – 1/13/17
Resident Evil 6 – 1/27/17
Bad Boys 3 – 2/17/17
Baby Driver – 3/17/17
Barbie – 6/2/17
Uncharted – 6/30/17*
The Lamb – 12/8/17
Bad Boys 4 – 7/3/19
*Previously slated films with new dates.
ABOUT SONY PICTURES ENTERTAINMENT
Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) is a subsidiary of Sony Entertainment Inc., a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Corporation. SPE's global operations encompass motion picture production, acquisition and distribution; television production, acquisition and distribution; television networks; digital content creation and distribution; operation of studio facilities; and development of new entertainment products, services and technologies. For additional information, go to http://www.sonypictures.com.
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CULVER CITY, Calif. – Sony Pictures Entertainment today unveiled release dates for 16 films for the studio’s 2016 and 2017 slates.
The additions compose a diverse, globally oriented mix of films, including new films with franchise potential (The Dark Tower, Uncharted, Patient Zero), established franchises (Bad Boys 3 and 4, Resident Evil, Underworld), adaptations of strong and beloved source material (The Magnificent Seven, Jumanji, Barbie), and daring original films (Passengers, Money Monster, The Shallows, Baby Driver, The Lamb).
These films join numerous projects already on the studio’s slate, including Ghostbusters (which moves up one week to 7/15/16), the next Spider-Man film (7/28/17), The Equalizer 2 (9/29/17), Dan Brown’s Inferno (10/14/16), Ang Lee’s Billy Lynn’s Long Halftime Walk (11/11/16), and the animated Spider-Man film masterminded by Phil Lord & Christopher Miller (7/20/18.)
The full list of films and their release dates added to the slate includes:
Money Monster – 4/8/16
The Shallows – 6/24/16
Ghostbusters – 7/15/16*
Patient Zero – 9/2/16
The Magnificent Seven – 9/23/16*
Underworld 5 – 10/21/16
Passengers – 12/21/16
Jumanji – 12/25/16
The Dark Tower – 1/13/17
Resident Evil 6 – 1/27/17
Bad Boys 3 – 2/17/17
Baby Driver – 3/17/17
Barbie – 6/2/17
Uncharted – 6/30/17*
The Lamb – 12/8/17
Bad Boys 4 – 7/3/19
*Previously slated films with new dates.
ABOUT SONY PICTURES ENTERTAINMENT
Sony Pictures Entertainment (SPE) is a subsidiary of Sony Entertainment Inc., a subsidiary of Tokyo-based Sony Corporation. SPE's global operations encompass motion picture production, acquisition and distribution; television production, acquisition and distribution; television networks; digital content creation and distribution; operation of studio facilities; and development of new entertainment products, services and technologies. For additional information, go to http://www.sonypictures.com.
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VIZ Media Offers Free Digital Sample of "Tokyo Ghoul" Manga
Monsters And Teen Angst Collide In Sui Ishida’s Bestselling Series Available Now In Print And Digitally; Sample A Special Extended Online Digital Excerpt Available For A Limited Time
VIZ Media gives fans and readers the creeps – for free – as it offers a special TOKYO GHOUL digital manga (graphic novel) sampler!
For a limited time, readers can visit http://www.vizmanga.com/reader/3440-tokyo-ghoul-1 to read an extended excerpt from Sui Ishida’s acclaimed horror series about the dark world of the flesh-eating Ghouls that live in secret all around us.
VIZ Media publishes TOKYO GHOUL (rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens) in print and also offers the series digitally first on VIZManga.com and the VIZ Manga App and worldwide via the Nook, Kobo, Kindle, iBooks, comiXology, and GooglePlay stores. TOKYO GHOUL Volume 1 is available now; Volume 2 is available now digitally and debuts in print on August 18th, 2015; TOKYO GHOUL Volume 3 is available now from digital partners. Check select partner sites for specific availability.
Ghouls live among us, the same as normal people in every way – except their craving for human flesh. Ken Kaneki is an ordinary college student until a violent encounter turns him into the first half-human half-ghoul hybrid. Trapped between two worlds, he must survive Ghoul turf wars, learn more about Ghoul society and master his new powers.
In the forthcoming TOKYO GHOUL Vol. 2, unable to discard his humanity but equally unable to suppress his Ghoul hunger, Ken finds salvation in the kindness of friendly Ghouls who teach him how to pass as human and eat flesh humanely. But recent upheavals in Ghoul society attract the police like wolves to prey, and they don’t discriminate between conscientious and ravenous Ghouls.
Manga creator Sui Ishida was born in Fukuoka, Japan. TOKYO GHOUL won him the Young Jump 113th Grand Prix award in 2010 and was debuted as a series in Japan in Weekly Shonen Jump magazine in 2011. The popular manga also was adapted into a widely watched anime series in 2014.
To view a trailer for TOKYO GHOUL, please visit http://youtu.be/UoDZTDM5kqE. For additional information on the series and other manga and anime titles published by VIZ Media, please visit www.VIZ.com.
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Thursday, August 6, 2015
DreamWorks and Walden Media Unite "A Dog's Purpose"
Walden Media Joins DreamWorks Studios’ “A Dog’s Purpose”
LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Walden Media, producer of such hit films as “The Chronicles of Narnia” series, “Bridge to Terabithia,” “Charlotte’s Web,” and the “Journey to the Center of the Earth” series, will co-finance and co-produce DreamWorks Studios’ upcoming film “A Dog’s Purpose.” Based on the best-selling novel, “A Dog’s Purpose” is an inspirational story of one devoted dog finding his purpose in the lives of the humans he loves.
Dennis Quaid (“Far From Heaven,” “The Rookie”), Britt Robertson (“Tomorrowland,” “Delivery Man”), K.J. Apa (“Shortland Street”), Juliet Rylance (“The Knick,” “Frances Ha”) and Peggy Lipton (“Mod Squad,” “Twin Peaks”) join the film, which is being directed by Academy Award nominated director Lasse Hallstrom (“The Hundred-Foot Journey,” “Chocolat”). Based on the beloved book by W. Bruce Cameron, the screenplay was written by Cameron & Cathryn Michon and Audrey Wells. Gavin Polone is producing with Alan Blomquist and Mark Sourian serving as executive producers. Production on the canine tale begins this month in Winnipeg, Canada, where its variety of locations afford the filmmakers the opportunity to tell this multi-generational story.
“This heartwarming and humorous tale is a great addition to our quality storytelling brand,” said Michael Wright, CEO of DreamWorks Studios. “Together with our partners at Walden, we believe that with Lasse Hallstrom directing, ‘A Dog’s Purpose’ will find its way into the hearts of families everywhere.”
“We are proud to once again partner with the great team at DreamWorks on ‘A Dog’s Purpose,’ a heartfelt and uplifting story that is in great hands with Lasse Hallstrom directing,” said Frank Smith, President and CEO of Walden Media. “This film is a perfect addition as we continue to build and diversify our slate and bring audiences movies that inspire and entertain.”
“Walden Media is the perfect partner for this very special story, and we couldn’t be more pleased to have them on board,” said Jeff Small, President and COO of DreamWorks Studios.
Published by Forge Books, “A Dog’s Purpose
” spent 52 weeks on the New York Times Best Sellers list. It has been translated into 20 languages and is published in 29 different countries worldwide.
“A Dog’s Purpose” joins Walden Media’s growing slate, which includes a diverse range of films that every member of a family can enjoy. Other upcoming projects include Universal Pictures’ dramatic adventure/thriller “Everest” starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Josh Brolin, Jason Clarke, Keira Knightley, John Hawkes, Sam Worthington, Emily Watson and Robin Wright (September 18, 2015) and “The BFG” directed by Steven Spielberg and based on Roald Dahl’s beloved novel (July 1, 2016).
About Walden Media
Walden Media specializes in entertainment for the whole family, creating movies, books and television series that spark the imagination and delight all generations. A subsidiary of the Anschutz Film Group, Walden Media movies include adaptations of notable books, compelling biographies and thrilling accounts of historical events. The company’s films are entertaining and commercial, while also telling stories that are inspirational, aspirational and explorational. Past award-winning films include: “The Chronicles of Narnia” series, the “Journey to the Center of the Earth” series, “Nim’s Island,” “Charlotte’s Web,” “Bridge to Terabithia,” “Holes,” “Amazing Grace,” and the Sundance Audience Prize Winning documentary “Waiting for ‘Superman.’”
For more information please visit www.Walden.com.
About DreamWorks Studios
DreamWorks Studios is a motion picture company formed in 2009 and led by Steven Spielberg in partnership with The Reliance Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group. The company’s recent releases include Spielberg’s “Lincoln,” starring Daniel Day-Lewis, Sally Field and Tommy Lee Jones. The film has grossed over $180 million at the U.S. box office and was nominated for twelve Academy Awards® with Daniel Day-Lewis winning for Best Actor. Other releases include “The Hundred-Foot Journey,” starring Helen Mirren; Steven Spielberg’s “War Horse,” based on Michael Morpurgo’s award-winning book and was nominated for six Academy Awards® including Best Picture; and “The Help,” which resonated with audiences around the country and earned over $200 million at the box office and received four Academy Award® nominations with Octavia Spencer winning for Best Supporting Actress.
DreamWorks Studios can be found on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/DreamWorksStudios and on Twitter at http://twitter.com/dw_studios.
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LOS ANGELES--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Walden Media, producer of such hit films as “The Chronicles of Narnia” series, “Bridge to Terabithia,” “Charlotte’s Web,” and the “Journey to the Center of the Earth” series, will co-finance and co-produce DreamWorks Studios’ upcoming film “A Dog’s Purpose.” Based on the best-selling novel, “A Dog’s Purpose” is an inspirational story of one devoted dog finding his purpose in the lives of the humans he loves.
Dennis Quaid (“Far From Heaven,” “The Rookie”), Britt Robertson (“Tomorrowland,” “Delivery Man”), K.J. Apa (“Shortland Street”), Juliet Rylance (“The Knick,” “Frances Ha”) and Peggy Lipton (“Mod Squad,” “Twin Peaks”) join the film, which is being directed by Academy Award nominated director Lasse Hallstrom (“The Hundred-Foot Journey,” “Chocolat”). Based on the beloved book by W. Bruce Cameron, the screenplay was written by Cameron & Cathryn Michon and Audrey Wells. Gavin Polone is producing with Alan Blomquist and Mark Sourian serving as executive producers. Production on the canine tale begins this month in Winnipeg, Canada, where its variety of locations afford the filmmakers the opportunity to tell this multi-generational story.
“This heartwarming and humorous tale is a great addition to our quality storytelling brand,” said Michael Wright, CEO of DreamWorks Studios. “Together with our partners at Walden, we believe that with Lasse Hallstrom directing, ‘A Dog’s Purpose’ will find its way into the hearts of families everywhere.”
“We are proud to once again partner with the great team at DreamWorks on ‘A Dog’s Purpose,’ a heartfelt and uplifting story that is in great hands with Lasse Hallstrom directing,” said Frank Smith, President and CEO of Walden Media. “This film is a perfect addition as we continue to build and diversify our slate and bring audiences movies that inspire and entertain.”
“Walden Media is the perfect partner for this very special story, and we couldn’t be more pleased to have them on board,” said Jeff Small, President and COO of DreamWorks Studios.
Published by Forge Books, “A Dog’s Purpose
” spent 52 weeks on the New York Times Best Sellers list. It has been translated into 20 languages and is published in 29 different countries worldwide.“A Dog’s Purpose” joins Walden Media’s growing slate, which includes a diverse range of films that every member of a family can enjoy. Other upcoming projects include Universal Pictures’ dramatic adventure/thriller “Everest” starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Josh Brolin, Jason Clarke, Keira Knightley, John Hawkes, Sam Worthington, Emily Watson and Robin Wright (September 18, 2015) and “The BFG” directed by Steven Spielberg and based on Roald Dahl’s beloved novel (July 1, 2016).
About Walden Media
Walden Media specializes in entertainment for the whole family, creating movies, books and television series that spark the imagination and delight all generations. A subsidiary of the Anschutz Film Group, Walden Media movies include adaptations of notable books, compelling biographies and thrilling accounts of historical events. The company’s films are entertaining and commercial, while also telling stories that are inspirational, aspirational and explorational. Past award-winning films include: “The Chronicles of Narnia” series, the “Journey to the Center of the Earth” series, “Nim’s Island,” “Charlotte’s Web,” “Bridge to Terabithia,” “Holes,” “Amazing Grace,” and the Sundance Audience Prize Winning documentary “Waiting for ‘Superman.’”
For more information please visit www.Walden.com.
About DreamWorks Studios
DreamWorks Studios is a motion picture company formed in 2009 and led by Steven Spielberg in partnership with The Reliance Anil Dhirubhai Ambani Group. The company’s recent releases include Spielberg’s “Lincoln,” starring Daniel Day-Lewis, Sally Field and Tommy Lee Jones. The film has grossed over $180 million at the U.S. box office and was nominated for twelve Academy Awards® with Daniel Day-Lewis winning for Best Actor. Other releases include “The Hundred-Foot Journey,” starring Helen Mirren; Steven Spielberg’s “War Horse,” based on Michael Morpurgo’s award-winning book and was nominated for six Academy Awards® including Best Picture; and “The Help,” which resonated with audiences around the country and earned over $200 million at the box office and received four Academy Award® nominations with Octavia Spencer winning for Best Supporting Actress.
DreamWorks Studios can be found on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/DreamWorksStudios and on Twitter at http://twitter.com/dw_studios.
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"Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'" Sets Box Office Marks in U.S. Theaters
Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'" Books Record Box Office Opening
Limited Theatrical Event Ranks First in Average Per Screen Among Top 10 on Tuesday and Sixth Place Overall
FLOWER MOUND, Texas /PRNewswire/ -- FUNimation® Entertainment announced a record breaking opening night for the theatrical release of "Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'." The anime film, which opened last night in 894 theaters across the U.S., brought in a stunning $1.97 Million box office for FUNimation Films on opening day of the limited theatrical event. The movie's per screen average of more than $2,198 landed it in 1(st) place yesterday in Average Per Screen among the Top 10 movies showing in the U.S. and 6(th) place in overall box office gross against all major studio releases. "Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'" is now the 8(th) highest anime opening of all time and the first limited event-style theatrical release to crack the Top 10.
"We are thrilled with the overwhelmingly positive fan response to the movie. We knew the opening would be very good but its performance has exceeded everyone's expectations," said Michael DuBoise, EVP and COO of FUNimation. "From our theatrical marketing campaign and fan engagement events to our expanded theatrical footprint and the specially produced 15-minute pre-show, FUNimation made a strategic decision to make Dragon Ball Z accessible to anime fans both old and new and it has paid off."
Theater sell outs were reported in major metropolitan areas including New York, Los Angeles and Dallas. "Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'" opens in Canada on Thursday, August 6, and will screen in more than 1,000 theaters total during its limited theatrical engagement from August 4 - 12, 2015.
"This film is a resounding victory on all levels," said David Wengrod, VP of Theatrical Distribution for FUNimation. "The combination of our careful choice of release dates, an enticing marketing campaign that theaters embraced and fans universally accepted, and all of the great reviews added up to a terrific opening for us."
"Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'" is the 19(th) film in the Dragon Ball franchise and is the follow-up to last year's "Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods." The film is a limited event-style theatrical release which includes a specially-produced 15-minute, Dragon Ball Z themed pre-show to create a unique experience for fans that can only be found in theaters.
Tickets to "Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'" are available for advance purchase at www.dragonballz.com.
For more information on "Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'" and theater locations, please visit www.dragonballz.com. Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/dragonballz & www.facebook.com/funimation, and follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/funimation.
About FUNimation Entertainment
FUNimation Entertainment is the leading anime company in North America. FUNimation has a proven formula for launching and advancing brands. They manage a full spectrum of rights for most of their brands including broadcasting, licensing, production, Internet, and home video sales and distribution. For more information about FUNimation Entertainment and its brands, visit www.funimation.com.
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Limited Theatrical Event Ranks First in Average Per Screen Among Top 10 on Tuesday and Sixth Place Overall
FLOWER MOUND, Texas /PRNewswire/ -- FUNimation® Entertainment announced a record breaking opening night for the theatrical release of "Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'." The anime film, which opened last night in 894 theaters across the U.S., brought in a stunning $1.97 Million box office for FUNimation Films on opening day of the limited theatrical event. The movie's per screen average of more than $2,198 landed it in 1(st) place yesterday in Average Per Screen among the Top 10 movies showing in the U.S. and 6(th) place in overall box office gross against all major studio releases. "Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'" is now the 8(th) highest anime opening of all time and the first limited event-style theatrical release to crack the Top 10.
"We are thrilled with the overwhelmingly positive fan response to the movie. We knew the opening would be very good but its performance has exceeded everyone's expectations," said Michael DuBoise, EVP and COO of FUNimation. "From our theatrical marketing campaign and fan engagement events to our expanded theatrical footprint and the specially produced 15-minute pre-show, FUNimation made a strategic decision to make Dragon Ball Z accessible to anime fans both old and new and it has paid off."
Theater sell outs were reported in major metropolitan areas including New York, Los Angeles and Dallas. "Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'" opens in Canada on Thursday, August 6, and will screen in more than 1,000 theaters total during its limited theatrical engagement from August 4 - 12, 2015.
"This film is a resounding victory on all levels," said David Wengrod, VP of Theatrical Distribution for FUNimation. "The combination of our careful choice of release dates, an enticing marketing campaign that theaters embraced and fans universally accepted, and all of the great reviews added up to a terrific opening for us."
"Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'" is the 19(th) film in the Dragon Ball franchise and is the follow-up to last year's "Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods." The film is a limited event-style theatrical release which includes a specially-produced 15-minute, Dragon Ball Z themed pre-show to create a unique experience for fans that can only be found in theaters.
Tickets to "Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'" are available for advance purchase at www.dragonballz.com.
For more information on "Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'" and theater locations, please visit www.dragonballz.com. Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/dragonballz & www.facebook.com/funimation, and follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/funimation.
About FUNimation Entertainment
FUNimation Entertainment is the leading anime company in North America. FUNimation has a proven formula for launching and advancing brands. They manage a full spectrum of rights for most of their brands including broadcasting, licensing, production, Internet, and home video sales and distribution. For more information about FUNimation Entertainment and its brands, visit www.funimation.com.
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Wednesday, August 5, 2015
"Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'" to Screen in 50 Canadian Theaters
FUNimation To Screen "Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'" In More Than 50 Theaters Across Canada
Limited Theatrical Release Set for August 6, 8 and 10 in Canadian Theaters
FLOWER MOUND, Texas /CNW/ -- FUNimation® Entertainment announced today that the limited theatrical release of "Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'" will screen on August 6, 8 and 10, 2015 in more than 50 theaters across Canada in the provinces of British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland. "Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'" opened on Tuesday, August 4, 2015 in the U.S. and will screen in more than 1,000 theaters across both countries. The movie is an event style theatrical release and includes a special 15-minute pre-show.
"Canada is home to countless anime fans and a growing market for FUNimation," said Gen Fukunaga, CEO and founder of FUNimation. "We're pleased to bring Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F' to so many cities and provinces across the country - a significant increase over our number of theaters there for last year's Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods
."
FUNimation produced the special 15-minute, Dragon Ball Z themed pre-show to create a unique experience for fans that can only be found in theaters. The show includes exclusive cast interviews discussing Frieza's revival and his role in the Dragon Ball Z series. Fans will also be tested on their knowledge of the Dragon Ball Z franchise, with an interactive trivia show featuring the English cast and crew. Fans will be able to play along in real-time, using their mobile phone and the hashtag #DBZRF on Twitter. Winners will be picked from across Canada and the U.S. throughout the entire theatrical run.
"The response to Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F' has been incredible across both Canada and the U.S.," said Mike DuBoise, COO of FUNimation. "With just three screening days available in Canada, I encourage fans to purchase tickets as early as possible to ensure they don't miss the opportunity to experience the movie in theaters; as well as join others in our interactive trivia contest as part of the special pre-show."
"Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'" is the 19(th) film in the Dragon Ball franchise. The story is the follow up to "Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods" and showcases the return of Frieza - one of the greatest villains in all of anime. The new film, which promises even more action than last year's, will screen from August 4 - 12, 2015 in select theaters across Canada and the U.S. Tickets are available for advance purchase at www.dragonballz.com. The final theatrical trailer for the movie, which was released at the 2015 San Diego Comic-Con, can be viewed here.
For more information on "Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'" or to purchase tickets, please visit www.dragonballz.com. Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/dragonballz & www.facebook.com/funimation , and follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/funimation.
About FUNimation Entertainment
FUNimation Entertainment is the leading anime company in North America. FUNimation has a proven formula for launching and advancing brands. They manage a full spectrum of rights for most of their brands including broadcasting, licensing, production, Internet, and home video sales and distribution. For more information about FUNimation Entertainment and its brands, visit www.funimation.com.
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Limited Theatrical Release Set for August 6, 8 and 10 in Canadian Theaters
FLOWER MOUND, Texas /CNW/ -- FUNimation® Entertainment announced today that the limited theatrical release of "Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'" will screen on August 6, 8 and 10, 2015 in more than 50 theaters across Canada in the provinces of British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Ontario, Quebec, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland. "Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'" opened on Tuesday, August 4, 2015 in the U.S. and will screen in more than 1,000 theaters across both countries. The movie is an event style theatrical release and includes a special 15-minute pre-show.
"Canada is home to countless anime fans and a growing market for FUNimation," said Gen Fukunaga, CEO and founder of FUNimation. "We're pleased to bring Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F' to so many cities and provinces across the country - a significant increase over our number of theaters there for last year's Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods
."FUNimation produced the special 15-minute, Dragon Ball Z themed pre-show to create a unique experience for fans that can only be found in theaters. The show includes exclusive cast interviews discussing Frieza's revival and his role in the Dragon Ball Z series. Fans will also be tested on their knowledge of the Dragon Ball Z franchise, with an interactive trivia show featuring the English cast and crew. Fans will be able to play along in real-time, using their mobile phone and the hashtag #DBZRF on Twitter. Winners will be picked from across Canada and the U.S. throughout the entire theatrical run.
"The response to Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F' has been incredible across both Canada and the U.S.," said Mike DuBoise, COO of FUNimation. "With just three screening days available in Canada, I encourage fans to purchase tickets as early as possible to ensure they don't miss the opportunity to experience the movie in theaters; as well as join others in our interactive trivia contest as part of the special pre-show."
"Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'" is the 19(th) film in the Dragon Ball franchise. The story is the follow up to "Dragon Ball Z: Battle of Gods" and showcases the return of Frieza - one of the greatest villains in all of anime. The new film, which promises even more action than last year's, will screen from August 4 - 12, 2015 in select theaters across Canada and the U.S. Tickets are available for advance purchase at www.dragonballz.com. The final theatrical trailer for the movie, which was released at the 2015 San Diego Comic-Con, can be viewed here.
For more information on "Dragon Ball Z: Resurrection 'F'" or to purchase tickets, please visit www.dragonballz.com. Like us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/dragonballz & www.facebook.com/funimation , and follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/funimation.
About FUNimation Entertainment
FUNimation Entertainment is the leading anime company in North America. FUNimation has a proven formula for launching and advancing brands. They manage a full spectrum of rights for most of their brands including broadcasting, licensing, production, Internet, and home video sales and distribution. For more information about FUNimation Entertainment and its brands, visit www.funimation.com.
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Naruto Creator, Masashi Kishimoto, to Make "New York Super Week" Appearances
Renowned Creator Of Bestselling Manga Series Makes First-Ever U.S. Appearance At NY Comic Con, And Will Appear At Kinokuniya And Barnes & Noble Manhattan Locations
San Francisco, CA – VIZ Media, LLC (VIZ Media), the largest publisher, distributor and licensor of manga and anime in North America, prepares to welcome Masashi Kishimoto, the renowned creator of the NARUTO manga (graphic novel) series, for his first-ever U.S. appearance at the 2015 New York Comic Con and delights fans with today’s news that Kishimoto also will participate in a pair of signings sessions and in-store appearances as part of New York Super Week, co-sponsored by the Japan Foundation. The personal appearances will take place at the Manhattan locations of Kinokuniya Bookstore and Barnes & Noble Tribeca, on October 9th and 10th, 2015, respectively.
“Masashi Kishimoto has had a tremendous impact on the pop culture landscape with NARUTO, and the bestselling series has captivated millions of fans internationally and introduced scores more to the exciting world of manga,” says Andy Nakatani, Editor in Chief, WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP. “We are honored to welcome him to New York Comic Con and Super Week and invite fans to share in the excitement with these special personal appearances!”
New York Comic Con, the crown jewel of New York Super Week, will take place October 8-11, 2015. The annual event is the East Coast's biggest and most exciting popular culture convention with the latest and greatest in comics, graphic novels, anime, manga, video games, toys, movies and television. For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit www.NewYorkComicCon.com or and New York Comic Con’s social media pages (Facebook, Twitter & Instagram).
New York Super Week precedes the 2015 New York Comic Con and runs October 5th to 11th. The unique immersive pop culture event transforms the entire island of Manhattan into a playground for a colorful array of superheroes, villains, cosplayers, artists, celebrities and passionate fans of from all over the world that gather to take part in a variety of themed events all over the City including concerts, comedy shows, gaming events, lectures, podcasts, storytelling, food tastings. Full details are available at: http://www.newyorksuperweek.com.
Masashi Kishimoto Kinokuniya Signing Event
Friday, Oct. 9th, 8:30pm
Kinokuniya Book Store, 1073 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10018
Meet Masashi Kishimoto, creator of NARUTO, the best-selling manga series that inspired a generation of fans around the world and spawned hit anime series, movies, video games, novels and more. This event is an extremely rare opportunity to see the legendary Kishimoto in his first public appearances outside of Japan.
All participants must secure a SuperWeek event ticket. NARUTO Volume 72
, featuring an exclusive New York Comic Con variant cover drawn by Kishimoto, will be available for purchase. Attendees will receive a free autographed Shikishi art board with purchase of one of Kishimoto’s works. (*Note: Kishimoto will only sign the provided shikishi and on-site purchased book.) For additional information and tickets, please visit: http://www.newyorksuperweek.com/en/Sessions/14846/Masashi-Kishimoto-SigningMasashi Kishimoto Barnes & Noble Tribeca Signing Event
Saturday, Oct. 10th, 3:30pm
Barnes & Noble Tribeca, 97 Warren St., New York, NY 10007
Masashi Kishimoto makes his second appearance for New York Super Week at the Barnes & Noble Tribeca location. The Barnes & Noble Tribeca signing will be limited to the first 110 customers that purchase one of Kishimoto’s works; NARUTO Volume 72 featuring an exclusive New York Comic Con variant cover drawn by Kishimoto will also be available for purchase at this venue. Each person will receive an exclusive shikishi art board signed personally signed by the artist. (*Note: Kishimoto will only sign the provided shikishi and on-site purchased book.) For additional info, please visit: http://www.newyorksuperweek.com/en/Sessions/14847/Masashi-Kishimoto-Signing
Masashi Kishimoto was born in 1974 in rural Okayama Prefecture, Japan. His first version of NARUTO, drawn in 1997, was a one-shot story about fox spirits; his final version, which debuted in Weekly Shonen Jump in 1999, quickly became the most popular ninja manga in the world. The series spawned multiple anime series, movies, novels, video games and more. Having concluded the series in late 2014, he has kept himself busy with the side-story Naruto: The Seventh Hokage and the Scarlet Spring and with writing the story for the latest Naruto movie, both of which will focus on the title character’s son, Boruto. The NARUTO manga series is published in North America by VIZ Media.
For more information on NARUTO manga and anime titles published by VIZ Media, please visit viz.com/naruto.
About VIZ Media, LLC
Headquartered in San Francisco, California, VIZ Media distributes, markets and licenses the best anime and manga titles direct from Japan. Owned by three of Japan's largest manga and animation companies, Shueisha Inc., Shogakukan Inc., and Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions, Co., Ltd., VIZ Media has the most extensive library of anime and manga for English speaking audiences in North America, the United Kingdom, Ireland and South Africa. With its popular digital manga anthology WEEKLY SHONEN JUMP and blockbuster properties like NARUTO, BLEACH and ONE PIECE, VIZ Media offers cutting-edge action, romance and family friendly properties for anime, manga, science fiction and fantasy fans of all ages. VIZ Media properties are available as graphic novels, DVDs, animated television series, feature films, downloadable and streaming video and a variety of consumer products. Learn more about VIZ Media, anime and manga at www.VIZ.com.
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