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Tag: Lego

  • India’s first Lego store clicks into place with Ample’s Gurugram mega-launch

    India’s first Lego store clicks into place with Ample’s Gurugram mega-launch

    MUMBAI: The Lego dream just got bigger—and real. Ample group, the retail ace behind big-name brand tie-ups in India, has teamed up with the Lego group to launch the country’s first and South Asia’s largest Lego Certified Store at Ambience Mall in Gurugram.

    Spread across a sprawling 4,500+ sq. ft., this flagship retail paradise isn’t just another store—it’s a technicolour tribute to the power of play. Packed with interactive stations, digital experiences, iconic builds, and hands-on joy, it’s part toy box, part wonderland—and designed to hook everyone from toddlers to AFOLs (adult fans of Lego).

    Ample group founder & CEO Rajesh Narang said:  “At Ample, we have always believed in creating meaningful experiences for our customers by bringing some of the world’s most iconic brands closer to Indian customers, be it Apple, Bose, Under Armour, Asics, and now Lego group. With the launch of south Asia’s Largest Lego certified store, we are not just introducing a brand but offering families a space to imagine, play and create memories together. Our goal is to deliver experiences that go beyond shopping, where every visit feels special and interaction adds value.”

    This landmark opening comes as India’s economy is projected to grow by 6.3 per cent in 2025. With a surging middle class and rising appetite for premium experiences, Ample is betting big on immersive retail. It plans to open 30 Lego stores over the next five years, including the next one in Bengaluru’s Orion Mall.

    “Today is not just about opening a store—it marks a pivotal moment in Lego’s India’s journey, one that celebrates the power of play in its truest form,” said Lego India country manager Bhavana Mandon,. “We’re thrilled to finally bring the Lego brand experience to India in close partnership with the Ample Group. We’re laying the foundation for a strong retail presence and aim to help more Indians connect with the joy of play through multiple stores over the next two years. The energy, creativity, and passion we’ve witnessed today show that India’s Lego moment has truly arrived. As we enter this exciting phase of growth, we look forward to building spaces where people of all ages can build together.”

    Beyond retail buzz, the new store aims to cut screen time and boost cognitive skills with good old-fashioned hands-on play. From AI-powered displays to custom minifigs, it’s a bold mix of nostalgia and next-gen engagement.

    Established in 1996, Ample group has built a reputation for rolling out premium brand experiences, operating 100+ stores across the country and charming over a million customers. With a target CAGR of over 30 per cent over the next five years, the company shows no signs of slowing.

    Looks like Lego’s Indian adventure has finally clicked into gear—and it’s anything but child’s play.

  • Hyundai creates India’s largest outdoor Lego installation for EXTER

    Hyundai creates India’s largest outdoor Lego installation for EXTER

    Mumbai: Hyundai Motor India Ltd, India’s first smart mobility solutions provider and the largest exporter since its inception, unveils the country’s Largest Outdoor Installation made of LEGO bricks to showcase the dynamic Hyundai EXTER. This first-of-its-kind outdoor Installation is crafted for customers to reimagine and experience the Hyundai EXTER at Cyberhub, Gurugram. The month-long display is poised to captivate and engage audiences as it redefines Installation Marketing in the automobile industry. The extraordinary display intends to showcase Hyundai EXTER in a fascinating and engaging way and also provide a distinctive positioning to the brand’s “Think outdoor. Think EXTER” communication.

    Hyundai Motor India Ltd’s vertical head, marketing Virat Khullar said, “At Hyundai, we are always in pursuit of new and innovative means that engage and excite our consumers. We are immensely excited to unveil this innovative outdoor LEGO Bricks Installation purely made of 3,02,406 LEGO Bricks by talented LEGO Artists and AFOLs (Adult Fans of LEGO). This installation takes centre stage in our Hyundai EXTER Launch Campaign, redefining outdoor marketing and brand connection.

    Outdoor Installation Marketing has always been a key pillar to entice and connect with our consumers, effectively conveying the very soul of our brand. An example of this creative endeavour is our Outdoor LEGO Bricks Installation for Hyundai EXTER. With this new initiative, we are simply disrupting the take on outdoor installation, emphasizing “Think Outside. Think EXTER”

    This Hyundai EXTER LEGO Bricks Outdoor Installation is completed in a small span of 4 Days, winning the Asia Book of Records and India Book of Records for the title of ‘Largest Hoarding made using LEGO Bricks’. A staggering 302,406 LEGO bricks have been expertly orchestrated to form this masterpiece, a testament to the passion and talent of 28 skilled LEGO Artists who have dedicated over 1200 Hours of creation. Adult Fans of LEGO (AFOLs), who are masterful LEGO Artists, have brought this vision to life, ushering in a new era of outdoor Installation. This endeavour is not only a testament to Hyundai’s commitment to pushing boundaries but also a record-breaking feat. The activation is on display from 19 August to 17 September 2023, at Cyberhub, Gurugram.

    Hyundai EXTER stands as a symbol of modernity and exploration, designed to captivate the free spirit of India’s Gen MZ customers. “Think outside. Think EXTER”, the key brand communication, encapsulates the essence of wanderlust and exploration that drives this entry SUV. With striking design embodying a ‘Sensuous Sportiness’ identity, advanced technology, and segment-leading safety and comfort features, EXTER redefines benchmarks in its segment.

  • Brands kick off holiday ads way before Christmas

    Brands kick off holiday ads way before Christmas

    MUMBAI: A famous quote in advertising correctly justifies the medium – ‘Creativity without strategy is called art, creative with strategy is called advertising’. 
    It does stand true as advertising is creatively conveying your message to the viewers. Ad folk are obsessed with creativity which brings out the best in agencies that end up becoming memorable. 
    With holiday season around the corner, brands world over are pulling up their socks (did we hear Santa?). Holidays also give the audience more time to watch the ads as people tend to sit back, relax and enjoy some “me-time” by watching television or browsing social media platforms. Holiday ads are also significant as people tend to shop and splurge on gifts for family and friends around Christmas and New Year. 
    In our constant endeavour to bring forth interesting content to our readers, Indiantelevision.com has commenced a new weekly series, wherein we would showcase prominent international campaigns of the week that went by. 
    To kickstart the holiday season, we list down some of the most creative campaigns around the world this week. We are sure that these ads will get you in holiday mood ahead of time.
    LEGO Australia Christmas ad:

    Lego Australia created a stop-motion animation about a Lego Santa finding his way home to save Christmas, thanks to a surprise help from a spirited stranger, Sensei Wu. The campaign is a delightful little story that perfectly illustrates the sort of elaborate world-building Lego toys foster and the imaginative play that can happen within the little universe. The campaign was created by CHE Proximity agency. 
    Apple Holiday ad:

    Mobile giant Apple launched its holiday campaign called “Sway”. The ad features a brief appearance by the new iPhone X, but mostly revolves around AirPods and sharing an experience with music with someone special. The protagonist runs into a guy, imagines sharing an AirPod with him and the two fall in love before returning to reality where they pass by each other in the street. 
    Heathrow bears Christmas ad: 

    In the latest campaign by London’s Heathrow airport, much loved teddy bears Mr and Mrs Blair make a comeback to celebrate Christmas. During the two-minute video for Britain’s biggest airport, the emotional story follows the married couple from 1967 to the present day over the decades, as they longingly wait for each other in arrivals. The ad has been produced by Heathrow airport and is sure to make you teary-eyed. 
    Otto retail Christmas ad: 

    The short film revolves around the tale of a trapped Bolivian traveller to inspire togetherness in Christmas. Produced by BIGFISH, the campaign aims to get us into the spirit of Christmas regardless of where we are.
    McDonald’s reindeer ad: 

    McDonald’s has come up with an ‘awee-worthy’ ad this holiday season that talks about the tradition of leaving a gift for reindeers on Christmas for their hard work. The campaign conceptualised by Leo Burnett is part of McDonald’s #ReindeerReady Christmas menu. 

  • Powerpuff Girls: Over 30 brands partner with Cartoon Network

    Powerpuff Girls: Over 30 brands partner with Cartoon Network

    MUMBAI: The revival of Cartoon Network’s enduring original franchise The Powerpuff Girls made a spectacular debut on TV screens across EMEA recently. Now, with the show delivering consistently great ratings and interest in the brand accelerating, Cartoon Network proudly details its comprehensive first collection of EMEA licensing partners secured in the region.

    The EMEA merchandise roll-out will be kicked off by global toy partner Spin Master who will launch its innovative toy range spanning plush, figures and playsets, dolls, role play and novelty items in spring 2017. A robust line-up of fashion, accessories, gifting, homewares, personal care, FMCG and back-to-school products will follow closely thereafter.

    “The reaction to the return of The Powerpuff Girls has been remarkable. Blossom, Bubble and Buttercup may be little but they are generating a huge amount of excitement among fans, licensees and retailers” comments Johanne Broadfield,VP, Cartoon Network Enterprises EMEA. “We’re now delighted to be sharing details of the extensive line-up of partners that we’ve secured for this extraordinary franchise, and are confident that regardless of age, demographic or income, every fan will find a product they love.”

    In the UK, a diverse range of top-class partners are being welcomed to The Powerpuff Girls licensing programme including Posh Paws (bags), Blues Clothing (apparel), Forbidden Planet (gifts and accessories), Branded Clothing International (apparel), William Lamb (footwear and kids’ bags), Smith & Brooks (kid and adult apparel), C&M Licensing (nightwear and underwear), The Janger Limited (clothing hangers and athletic wear), Drew Pearson International (headwear and accessories), Corsair Toiletries (personal care), Blueprint Collections (stationery),Roy Lowe and Sons (socks), Poplar Linens (homeware) and JFS Manchester (accessories).

    Over in Italy, the brand’s first partners include Imap Export S.P.A. (apparel and accessories) and San Carlo Gruppo Alimentare (FMCG). For Spain, first partners include Karactermania (apparel, back-to-school and accessories), El Corte Ingles (accessories), Laboratorios Iberpos (personal care), Miss Hamptons (fashion accessories) and Dolci Preziosi (FMCG). Lethe Jakub Chmielniak also joins the vast line-up with apparel and accessory products for Central and Eastern European, and luxury fashion brand Bizuu recently debuted its AW16 collection in Poland with a high profile catwalk event.

    For the Middle East, Cartoon Network has signed licensees including Party Center LLC (party-ware), Concept – Big Brands Group LLC (personal care), Trucare Fzc (fashion and homewares), SunCe Products Limited (back-to-school) and MEI Theatrical Limited (events). Finally, in a multi-territory deal, Bioworld will launch an assortment of apparel and accessories across EMEA and Pretty Ballerinas is on board for a global footwear collection.

    The Powerpuff Girls is also widely featured in the dedicated Cartoon Network Zone at the recently opened IMG Worlds of Adventures in Dubai. Alongside the ‘Mojo Jojo’s Robot Rampage’ ride that offers visitors the chance to take the skies with Blossom, Bubbles and Buttercup, the Cartoon Network retail store offers a vast array of Powerpuff Girl products, many of which are exclusive to the park.

    In a further brand extension, Cartoon Network has recently partnered with Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment to introduce The Powerpuff Girls into the popular LEGO dimensions video game in June 2017.

  • Powerpuff Girls: Over 30 brands partner with Cartoon Network

    Powerpuff Girls: Over 30 brands partner with Cartoon Network

    MUMBAI: The revival of Cartoon Network’s enduring original franchise The Powerpuff Girls made a spectacular debut on TV screens across EMEA recently. Now, with the show delivering consistently great ratings and interest in the brand accelerating, Cartoon Network proudly details its comprehensive first collection of EMEA licensing partners secured in the region.

    The EMEA merchandise roll-out will be kicked off by global toy partner Spin Master who will launch its innovative toy range spanning plush, figures and playsets, dolls, role play and novelty items in spring 2017. A robust line-up of fashion, accessories, gifting, homewares, personal care, FMCG and back-to-school products will follow closely thereafter.

    “The reaction to the return of The Powerpuff Girls has been remarkable. Blossom, Bubble and Buttercup may be little but they are generating a huge amount of excitement among fans, licensees and retailers” comments Johanne Broadfield,VP, Cartoon Network Enterprises EMEA. “We’re now delighted to be sharing details of the extensive line-up of partners that we’ve secured for this extraordinary franchise, and are confident that regardless of age, demographic or income, every fan will find a product they love.”

    In the UK, a diverse range of top-class partners are being welcomed to The Powerpuff Girls licensing programme including Posh Paws (bags), Blues Clothing (apparel), Forbidden Planet (gifts and accessories), Branded Clothing International (apparel), William Lamb (footwear and kids’ bags), Smith & Brooks (kid and adult apparel), C&M Licensing (nightwear and underwear), The Janger Limited (clothing hangers and athletic wear), Drew Pearson International (headwear and accessories), Corsair Toiletries (personal care), Blueprint Collections (stationery),Roy Lowe and Sons (socks), Poplar Linens (homeware) and JFS Manchester (accessories).

    Over in Italy, the brand’s first partners include Imap Export S.P.A. (apparel and accessories) and San Carlo Gruppo Alimentare (FMCG). For Spain, first partners include Karactermania (apparel, back-to-school and accessories), El Corte Ingles (accessories), Laboratorios Iberpos (personal care), Miss Hamptons (fashion accessories) and Dolci Preziosi (FMCG). Lethe Jakub Chmielniak also joins the vast line-up with apparel and accessory products for Central and Eastern European, and luxury fashion brand Bizuu recently debuted its AW16 collection in Poland with a high profile catwalk event.

    For the Middle East, Cartoon Network has signed licensees including Party Center LLC (party-ware), Concept – Big Brands Group LLC (personal care), Trucare Fzc (fashion and homewares), SunCe Products Limited (back-to-school) and MEI Theatrical Limited (events). Finally, in a multi-territory deal, Bioworld will launch an assortment of apparel and accessories across EMEA and Pretty Ballerinas is on board for a global footwear collection.

    The Powerpuff Girls is also widely featured in the dedicated Cartoon Network Zone at the recently opened IMG Worlds of Adventures in Dubai. Alongside the ‘Mojo Jojo’s Robot Rampage’ ride that offers visitors the chance to take the skies with Blossom, Bubbles and Buttercup, the Cartoon Network retail store offers a vast array of Powerpuff Girl products, many of which are exclusive to the park.

    In a further brand extension, Cartoon Network has recently partnered with Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment to introduce The Powerpuff Girls into the popular LEGO dimensions video game in June 2017.

  • Q1-16: Turner, HBO push Time Warner revenues up 2.5 percent

    Q1-16: Turner, HBO push Time Warner revenues up 2.5 percent

    BENGALURU: Time Warner Inc., (Time Warner) reported 2.5 percent growth in revenues for the quarter ended 31 March 2016 (current quarter, Q1-16) at $7,308 million as compared to the $7,127 million in Q1-15. Revenues increased due to growth at Turner and Home Box Office, partially offset by a decline at Warner Bros.

    Total Operating Income increased 11.8 percent year-on-year in the current quarter to $1,996 million as compared to $1,786 million in the corresponding quarter of the previous year.

    Time Warner chairman and chief executive officer Jeff Bewkes said, ““We’re off to a terrific start to 2016, as we benefit from the investments we’ve been making in great content and new capabilities in order to take advantage of the growing demand for high-quality video content around the world. Revenues increased 3 percent and Adjusted Operating Income grew 11 percent to a quarterly record of $2 billion due to strong growth across all our operating divisions. In the past several weeks, we’ve seen Warner Bros. release its latest global hit in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, setting the stage for what we expect to be a big year in film, with upcoming releases including Suicide Squad and Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. In television, Warner Bros. continued to show its strength with three of the top five new shows on broadcast television this season among adults 18-49 and a record 21 renewals ahead of the upfront this year.”

    Bewkes continued, “Turner aired cable’s first ever NCAA Men’s Division I Basketball Championship game, and Turner and CBS entered into an agreement with the NCAA to extend their television, digital and marketing rights to the NCAA tournament through 2032. TBS ended the quarter as the #1 ad-supported cable network in primetime among adults 18-49 and its repositioning as cable’s premier network for young, fresh comedy is underway with the introduction of new programming including Angie Tribeca, Full Frontal with Samantha Bee and The Detour, the biggest new comedy on cable this year. With its must-watch coverage of the US presidential campaign, CNN continued to build on its success by more than doubling its primetime audience in the quarter. Meanwhile, HBO continued to make strides both inside and outside the traditional TV ecosystem, including expanding its OTT reach to new platforms and new international territories. And, more recently, HBO’s epic series Game of Thrones returned to record premiere night viewership. Further demonstrating our commitment to shareholder returns, we returned close to $1.3 billion to our shareholders through share repurchases and dividends year-to-date.”

    Turner

    Turner reported 7.2 percent YoY growth in revenues in the current quarter at $2,906 million as compared to $2,710 million. The segment reported 11.8 percent YoY increase in operating to $1,239 million from $1,108 million. 

    Revenues increased due to increases of 11 percent ($143 million) in subscription revenues and 5 percent ($56 million) in advertising revenues. Turner says subscription revenues increased due to higher domestic rates and local currency growth at Turner’s international networks, partially offset by the impact of foreign exchange rates and lower domestic subscribers. Advertising revenues benefited from domestic growth, primarily due to Turner’s news business, and local currency growth at Turner’s international networks, partially offset by the impact of foreign exchange rates.

    Home Box Office

    HBO reported YoY increase in revenues to $1,506 million in Q1-16 from $1,398 million in Q1-15. HBO operating income increased 4.1 percent to $477 million in the current quarter from $458 million in the corresponding year ago quarter.

    Revenues increased due to increases of 5 percent ($57 million) in subscription revenues and 23 percent ($51 million) in content and other revenues. Subscription revenues grew primarily due to higher domestic rates and subscribers. The increase in content and other revenues primarily reflected higher international licensing revenues, partially offset by lower home entertainment revenues.

    Warner Bros,

    Warner Bros. reported 2.8 percent YoY decline in revenues Q1-16 to $3,109 million from $3,199 million in Q1-15. Despite drop in revenue, Operating Income from the segment increased 30.9 percent in Q1-16 to $424 million from $324 million in the corresponding year ago quarter.

    Revenues decreased mainly due to lower theatrical revenues, partially offset by higher television and videogames revenues. Theatrical revenues declined as the prior year quarter included revenues from American Sniper and The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies compared to the release of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice late in the current year quarter. Television revenues increased primarily due to higher international licensing revenues and higher initial telecast revenues. The increase in videogames was mainly due to Warner Bros. LEGO and Mortal Kombat franchises.

     

  • Q1-16: Turner, HBO push Time Warner revenues up 2.5 percent

    Q1-16: Turner, HBO push Time Warner revenues up 2.5 percent

    BENGALURU: Time Warner Inc., (Time Warner) reported 2.5 percent growth in revenues for the quarter ended 31 March 2016 (current quarter, Q1-16) at $7,308 million as compared to the $7,127 million in Q1-15. Revenues increased due to growth at Turner and Home Box Office, partially offset by a decline at Warner Bros.

    Total Operating Income increased 11.8 percent year-on-year in the current quarter to $1,996 million as compared to $1,786 million in the corresponding quarter of the previous year.

    Time Warner chairman and chief executive officer Jeff Bewkes said, ““We’re off to a terrific start to 2016, as we benefit from the investments we’ve been making in great content and new capabilities in order to take advantage of the growing demand for high-quality video content around the world. Revenues increased 3 percent and Adjusted Operating Income grew 11 percent to a quarterly record of $2 billion due to strong growth across all our operating divisions. In the past several weeks, we’ve seen Warner Bros. release its latest global hit in Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice, setting the stage for what we expect to be a big year in film, with upcoming releases including Suicide Squad and Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them. In television, Warner Bros. continued to show its strength with three of the top five new shows on broadcast television this season among adults 18-49 and a record 21 renewals ahead of the upfront this year.”

    Bewkes continued, “Turner aired cable’s first ever NCAA Men’s Division I Basketball Championship game, and Turner and CBS entered into an agreement with the NCAA to extend their television, digital and marketing rights to the NCAA tournament through 2032. TBS ended the quarter as the #1 ad-supported cable network in primetime among adults 18-49 and its repositioning as cable’s premier network for young, fresh comedy is underway with the introduction of new programming including Angie Tribeca, Full Frontal with Samantha Bee and The Detour, the biggest new comedy on cable this year. With its must-watch coverage of the US presidential campaign, CNN continued to build on its success by more than doubling its primetime audience in the quarter. Meanwhile, HBO continued to make strides both inside and outside the traditional TV ecosystem, including expanding its OTT reach to new platforms and new international territories. And, more recently, HBO’s epic series Game of Thrones returned to record premiere night viewership. Further demonstrating our commitment to shareholder returns, we returned close to $1.3 billion to our shareholders through share repurchases and dividends year-to-date.”

    Turner

    Turner reported 7.2 percent YoY growth in revenues in the current quarter at $2,906 million as compared to $2,710 million. The segment reported 11.8 percent YoY increase in operating to $1,239 million from $1,108 million. 

    Revenues increased due to increases of 11 percent ($143 million) in subscription revenues and 5 percent ($56 million) in advertising revenues. Turner says subscription revenues increased due to higher domestic rates and local currency growth at Turner’s international networks, partially offset by the impact of foreign exchange rates and lower domestic subscribers. Advertising revenues benefited from domestic growth, primarily due to Turner’s news business, and local currency growth at Turner’s international networks, partially offset by the impact of foreign exchange rates.

    Home Box Office

    HBO reported YoY increase in revenues to $1,506 million in Q1-16 from $1,398 million in Q1-15. HBO operating income increased 4.1 percent to $477 million in the current quarter from $458 million in the corresponding year ago quarter.

    Revenues increased due to increases of 5 percent ($57 million) in subscription revenues and 23 percent ($51 million) in content and other revenues. Subscription revenues grew primarily due to higher domestic rates and subscribers. The increase in content and other revenues primarily reflected higher international licensing revenues, partially offset by lower home entertainment revenues.

    Warner Bros,

    Warner Bros. reported 2.8 percent YoY decline in revenues Q1-16 to $3,109 million from $3,199 million in Q1-15. Despite drop in revenue, Operating Income from the segment increased 30.9 percent in Q1-16 to $424 million from $324 million in the corresponding year ago quarter.

    Revenues decreased mainly due to lower theatrical revenues, partially offset by higher television and videogames revenues. Theatrical revenues declined as the prior year quarter included revenues from American Sniper and The Hobbit: The Battle of the Five Armies compared to the release of Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice late in the current year quarter. Television revenues increased primarily due to higher international licensing revenues and higher initial telecast revenues. The increase in videogames was mainly due to Warner Bros. LEGO and Mortal Kombat franchises.

     

  • Warner & Lego to launch ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ video game

    Warner & Lego to launch ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ video game

    MUMBAI: Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, TT Games, The Lego Group and Lucasfilm will be launching Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens, marking the return of the Lego videogame franchise. 

    Launching on 28 June, 2016, the game will introduce new gameplay mechanics to build, battle and fly through the galaxy like never before, as well as new story content exploring the time between Star Wars: Return of the Jedi and Star Wars: The Force Awakens, providing additional insight about the new movie and its characters.

    Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens will be available for PlayStation4 and PlayStation3 computer entertainment systems, PlayStationVita handheld entertainment system, Xbox One, Xbox 360, the Wii U system from Nintendo, the Nintendo 3DS family of systems and Windows PC.

    “We’re extremely proud of the Lego Star Wars videogames, truly an incredible franchise that has sold more than 33 million copies and helped ignite a passion for numerous fun-filled Lego games enjoyed by countless gamers around the world. Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens will be pushing the series forward with innovative new gameplay mechanics, while also exploring new parts of the universe that are sure to excite and delight both Lego and Star Wars fans, as well as newcomers to our games,” said TT Games managing director Tom Stone.

    “We are thrilled to be bringing back the Lego Star Wars videogame franchise, which kicked off such a beloved series of Lego titles more than a decade ago. Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens allows players to experience the new film in a unique way that only TT Games can provide, combining signature humor with epic Star Wars action. With previously untold story content exploring new details about the movie and its characters, it’s a perfect fit for fans of all ages,” added Lucasfilm vice president, digital business & franchise management Ada Duan.

    “We are delighted to return to the Star Wars Universe and continue the journey with the franchise that started it all for Lego videogames,” said Lego Group VP – digital games Niels J?rgensen. “Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens will offer an amazing gaming experience covering not only the movie but also exclusive content with all the fun and humor you would expect from a Lego game, while delivering the epic Star Wars adventure fans expect.”

    Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens takes players deeper into the new film than any other game with all of the heroic characters from the movie, including Rey, Finn, Poe Dameron, Han Solo, Chewbacca, C-3PO, and BB-8, as well as Kylo Ren, General Hux and Captain Phasma, while also exploring iconic Star Wars locales, such as Jakku and Starkiller Base.

    The action-packed adventure introduces new gameplay features, including the enhanced “Multi-Builds” system, where players can choose from multiple building options to advance the game. Gamers will be able to engage in intense new Blaster Battles for the first time, utilizing surrounding environments to drive back the First Order. Fans can also experience the thrill of high-speed flight gameplay through arena-based battles and dogfights in space, while utilizing a multitude of vehicles along the way, including the legendary Millennium Falcon.

    PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 3 players will have access to exclusive downloadable content, the Droid Character Pack and the Phantom Limb Level Pack.

  • Warner & Lego to launch ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ video game

    Warner & Lego to launch ‘Star Wars: The Force Awakens’ video game

    MUMBAI: Warner Bros. Interactive Entertainment, TT Games, The Lego Group and Lucasfilm will be launching Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens, marking the return of the Lego videogame franchise. 

    Launching on 28 June, 2016, the game will introduce new gameplay mechanics to build, battle and fly through the galaxy like never before, as well as new story content exploring the time between Star Wars: Return of the Jedi and Star Wars: The Force Awakens, providing additional insight about the new movie and its characters.

    Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens will be available for PlayStation4 and PlayStation3 computer entertainment systems, PlayStationVita handheld entertainment system, Xbox One, Xbox 360, the Wii U system from Nintendo, the Nintendo 3DS family of systems and Windows PC.

    “We’re extremely proud of the Lego Star Wars videogames, truly an incredible franchise that has sold more than 33 million copies and helped ignite a passion for numerous fun-filled Lego games enjoyed by countless gamers around the world. Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens will be pushing the series forward with innovative new gameplay mechanics, while also exploring new parts of the universe that are sure to excite and delight both Lego and Star Wars fans, as well as newcomers to our games,” said TT Games managing director Tom Stone.

    “We are thrilled to be bringing back the Lego Star Wars videogame franchise, which kicked off such a beloved series of Lego titles more than a decade ago. Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens allows players to experience the new film in a unique way that only TT Games can provide, combining signature humor with epic Star Wars action. With previously untold story content exploring new details about the movie and its characters, it’s a perfect fit for fans of all ages,” added Lucasfilm vice president, digital business & franchise management Ada Duan.

    “We are delighted to return to the Star Wars Universe and continue the journey with the franchise that started it all for Lego videogames,” said Lego Group VP – digital games Niels J?rgensen. “Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens will offer an amazing gaming experience covering not only the movie but also exclusive content with all the fun and humor you would expect from a Lego game, while delivering the epic Star Wars adventure fans expect.”

    Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens takes players deeper into the new film than any other game with all of the heroic characters from the movie, including Rey, Finn, Poe Dameron, Han Solo, Chewbacca, C-3PO, and BB-8, as well as Kylo Ren, General Hux and Captain Phasma, while also exploring iconic Star Wars locales, such as Jakku and Starkiller Base.

    The action-packed adventure introduces new gameplay features, including the enhanced “Multi-Builds” system, where players can choose from multiple building options to advance the game. Gamers will be able to engage in intense new Blaster Battles for the first time, utilizing surrounding environments to drive back the First Order. Fans can also experience the thrill of high-speed flight gameplay through arena-based battles and dogfights in space, while utilizing a multitude of vehicles along the way, including the legendary Millennium Falcon.

    PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 3 players will have access to exclusive downloadable content, the Droid Character Pack and the Phantom Limb Level Pack.

  • Q1-2015: Turner record results overcome Warner Bros, HBO downturn for Time Warner

    Q1-2015: Turner record results overcome Warner Bros, HBO downturn for Time Warner

    BENGALURU: Turner’s record adjusted operating income growth of 26 per cent to $1128 million for Q1-2015 as compared to the $895 million in Q1-2014 was offset in part by declines at Warner Bros. and Home Box Office (HBO) says Time Warner Inc.

     

    Time Warner’s adjusted operating income grew 11.6 per cent to a record $1814 million during the quarter ended 31 March, 2015 (Q1-2015, current quarter) as compared to the $1626 million in Q1-2014. Time Warner revenue was up 4.8 per cent to $7127 million in Q1-2015 as compared to the $6803 million during the corresponding quarter of last year. The revenue increase was due to growth in all divisions says the company.

     

    Time Warner chairman and CEO Jeff Bewkes said, “We got off to a very strong start in 2015, with revenues up five per cent, and adjusted operating income growing 12 per cent to a quarterly record of $1.8 billion. This led to a 23 per cent increase in adjusted EPS and puts us on track to achieve our goals for the year. We accomplished a lot in the quarter, led by Turner, which had its best quarter ever, with audience growth across a number of its networks. The NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament was a huge multiplatform success, with its highest average television viewership in over two decades helping make TBS the #1 ad-supported cable network in primetime among adults 18-49 in the quarter. And March Madness Live served more than 80 million live video streams and grew its usage by almost 20 per cent over last year’s tournament. Warner Bros. led the domestic box office for the quarter on the strength of American Sniper, which brought in well over $500 million globally. Warner Bros. also continued to lead the industry in television production, including the #1 comedy and unscripted series among adults 18-49 on television this season. HBO once again grew domestic subscribers in the quarter while continuing to gain acclaim for groundbreaking programming such as the recent documentaries Going Clear: Scientology and The Prison of Belief and The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst. The return of Game of Thrones reached a new premiere high, while also providing the backdrop for the highly-anticipated launch of HBO Now, our standalone streaming version of HBO – which is off to a great start. Reflecting our strong commitment to provide direct returns to shareholders, we returned more than $1.4 billion in dividends and share repurchases year-to-date.”

     

    Segment Results

     

    Turner

    Turner reported 4.5 per cent growth in revenue to $2710 million in Q1-2015 from $2593 million in Q1-2014. Turner’s adjusted operating income has been mentioned above.

     

    The company says that Turner benefited from growth of four per cent ($42 million) in advertising revenues, three per cent ($38 million) in subscription revenues and 25 per cent ($37 million) in content and other revenues.

     

    Turner advertising revenues benefited from growth at Turner’s domestic businesses mainly due to the 2015 NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Championship tournament (NCAA Tournament) and growth at Turner’s news businesses. Subscription revenues grew due to higher domestic rates partially offset by lower domestic subscribers. Both international advertising and international subscription revenue growth were more than offset by the impact of foreign exchange rates. The increase in content and other revenues was due to higher subscription video-on-demand revenues.

     

    Turner’s adjusted operating income increased 26 per cent primarily due to higher revenues and lower expenses, including lower marketing, programming and general and administrative costs, largely as a result of operational efficiency initiatives and timing. Programming costs declined three per cent due primarily to timing and lower syndicated programming expenses as a result of the abandonment of certain programming in 2014.

     

    HBO

     

    Home Box Office revenue in Q1-2015 was up 4.4 per cent to $1398 million as compared to the $1339 million in Q1-2014. Adjusted operating income fell 1.3 per cent to $458 million in Q1-2015 from $468 million in the corresponding year ago quarter.

     

    According to the company, HBO revenues grew four per cent and reflect increases of four per cent ($49 million) in subscription revenues and five per cent ($10 million) in content and other revenues. Subscription revenues increased primarily due to higher domestic rates, partially offset by the transfer to Turner of the operation of HBO’s basic cable network in India. The increase in content and other revenues reflected higher home entertainment revenues and higher international licensing revenues.

     

    HBO adjusted operating income declined one per cent ($6 million) to $458 million, as higher revenues were more than offset by higher programming, distribution and marketing costs. Programming costs grew nine per cent, primarily due to increased expenses for original programming. Distribution costs increased primarily due to higher participation expenses. The increase in marketing costs was primarily related to the launch of HBO Now.

     

    Time Warner informs that through the first two weeks, the fifth season premiere of Game of Thrones totalled 18.1 million gross viewers, over one million more viewers than the prior season’s first episode after the same period of time. In April 2015, Home Box Office launched HBO Now, its stand-alone streaming service, in the US.

     

    Warner Bros

     

    Warner Bros revenue grew 4.3 per cent to $3199 million in the current year from $3066 million in Q1-2014. Adjusted operating income declined 13.2 per cent to $330 million in Q1-2015 from $380 million reported in the corresponding year ago quarter.

     

    Warner Bros revenue increase, reflects higher television licensing revenues primarily due to the subscription video-on-demand sale of Friends and higher revenues from videogames. Revenues also benefited from growth in theatrical revenues led by the strong performance of American Sniper. The increase was partially offset by the effect of foreign currency exchange rates.

     

    Adjusted Operating Income declined 13.2 per cent, as higher revenues were more than offset by higher film and advertising costs due to the mix of theatrical releases and videogame product.

     

    Through 27 April, American Sniper grossed over $540 million at the worldwide box office. On 9 April, Warner Bros., its TT Games business and The Lego Group announced Lego Dimensions, a videogame experience that combines physical Lego brick building toys based on multiple franchises, including Warner Bros.’ DC Comics, The Lord of the Rings and The Lego Movie, with interactive console gameplay.