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Tag: Superman

  • Lola revs up with Superman as Warner Bros joins the race for fans

    Lola revs up with Superman as Warner Bros joins the race for fans

    MUMBAI: Faster than a speeding bullet and slicker than a pit stop Superman just joined Formula E. In a thrilling fusion of comic book cool and racetrack grit, Lola Cars has joined forces with Warner Bros. Discovery in a strategic partnership that brings superheroes to the circuit. And they’re not easing into it, a Superman-themed race car will blaze onto the track for the Berlin E-Prix this weekend.

    The Lola Yamaha ABT Formula E team’s T001 car, driven by Zane Maloney and Lucas di Grassi, will sport an electrifying blue, red and yellow livery, complete with the iconic Superman shield. Even the drivers will suit up literally in race gear inspired by Clark Kent’s legendary alter ego.

    Timed with the 11 July theatrical release of DC Studios’ Superman, the stunt marks the start of a long-term collaboration between Lola and Warner Bros. Discovery, who will co-create content around Lola’s motorsport ventures and bring sponsor stories to life across platforms.

    But this isn’t just about eye-catching liveries. The partnership also includes integrated sponsorship opportunities, with WBD joining hands to help monetise and maximise exposure through enhanced media packages.

    “This is more than a one-off activation,” said Lola Cars chief commercial officer Keith Smout. “It’s a new model for sports-marketing synergy where the track meets the theatre, and content fuels the connection.”

    WBD, GVP global sales Patrick Maitrot added, “By pairing the power of Superman with the speed of Formula E, we’re engaging fans in a whole new way using our unrivalled IP and Lola’s racing prowess to tell stories that leap off the screen and onto the track.”

    The Superman livery will light up both rounds of the Berlin E-Prix at Tempelhof Airport. For Formula E fans, it’s a visual treat; for Superman fans, a fast-track teaser; and for both brands, a bold play in content-fuelled fandom.

    Superman, directed by James Gunn and produced by Peter Safran, is DC Studios’ first feature film and will hit cinemas in the UK and Ireland on 11 July  2025. Meanwhile, Formula E action continues to stream across TNT Sports, Eurosport, discovery+ and HBO Max, with WBD holding exclusive coverage rights across Europe.

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  • The Indian Garage Co teams up with Warner Bros for superhero chic

    The Indian Garage Co teams up with Warner Bros for superhero chic

    MUMBAI: The Indian Garage Co (TIGC) has struck a deal with Warner Bros Discovery Global Consumer Products (WBDGCP), unleashing a new collection that’s a proper mash-up of superhero swagger and cartoon capers. It’s aiming to tickle the nostalgia bone of Gen Z, blending iconic characters with modern street style.

    Think Batman’s brooding aesthetic mixed with Looney Tunes’ lunacy, and you’re halfway there. The collection spans everything from DC superhero streetwear to Tom and Jerry’s playful designs, all aimed at the fashion-forward youth who want to wear their fandom on their sleeves – literally.

    Take a look:

    * DC Super Hero Collection: Embrace the power of Superman, Batman, The Flash, and Wonder Woman with high-quality DC Super Hero-inspired streetwear.
    * Batman Collection: Dark, minimal, and Gotham City inspired aesthetics for fans of the Dark Knight.
    * Superman Collection: Bold, powerful, and statement-making styles infused with strength and heroism.
    * Cartoon Network Collection: Nostalgic yet fashionable classics for those who love timeless characters.
    * Looney Tunes Collection: Fun, graphic-heavy streetwear featuring Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and more.
    * Tom and Jerry Collection: Playful yet sophisticated styles that capture the timeless antics of this beloved duo.

    TIGC founder & chief executive Anant Tanted is quite kicked up about the partnership. “We’re pleased to bring this unique collection inspired by Warner Bros. Discovery’s IPs to our customers. This collaboration blends the magic of these iconic characters with our commitment to making high-quality, global trend-forward fashion accessible to all, especially the GenZ audience. We believe this collection will resonate with fans and fashion-enthusiasts of all ages, offering a fresh and exciting way to express their love for these timeless stories.”

    The collection boasts a smorgasbord of apparel, including comfy tees, polo shirts, shorts, jogger pants, and co-ord sets. It’s a proper wardrobe refresh for anyone wanting to inject a bit of cartoon chaos into their style.

    TIGC, established in 2012, has grown into a Rs 400 crore enterprise, with ambitions to hit Rs 1,500 crore in the next five years. It’s operating under a House of Brands  format, with menswear, womenswear, and plus-size menswear all under one roof. The aim is to be the go-to for gen-z fashion, and with this new collection, the company might just achieve it.

  • Spotify, Warner Bros and DC announce multi-year partnership to produce original podcast slate

    Spotify, Warner Bros and DC announce multi-year partnership to produce original podcast slate

    NEW DELHI: In a collaborative and innovative effort to further increase premium content offerings for consumers, Spotify, Warner Bros and DC (the home of Superman, Batman, Wonder Woman, Harley Quinn, The Joker and many more iconic DC Super Heroes and Super-Villains) today announced a new multi-year deal to produce and distribute an original slate of narrative scripted podcasts, marking the first pact of its kind between the companies. 

    Spotify, the world’s leading audio streaming subscription service, is committed to an annual slate of new dramatic and comedic podcasts that Warner Bros. will develop and produce. Under terms of the deal, Spotify will have a first look at original scripted narrative DC podcasts, including new shows based on the vast universe of premier, iconic DC characters. The initial slate of projects under the partnership will also tap into Warner Bros.’ broader collection of timeless titles for additional series. 

    In addition to producing narratives based on existing characters and established franchises from across Warner Bros. and DC, the companies will also collaborate to create new programming from original intellectual property.

    On the Warner Bros. side, the partnership will be managed through a cross-divisional effort led by Peter Girardi and Robert Steele, who will co-develop and produce the programming in collaboration with Spotify, which will be responsible for the marketing, advertising, and distribution of the shows exclusively on its platform. Girardi — executive vice president of Blue Ribbon Content and of alternative programming at Warner Bros. Animation — will serve as the creative lead, and Steele — senior vice president, business strategy and operations, Warner Bros. Digital Networks — will spearhead strategic business aspects of the partnership for the Studio.

    “As we continue to see explosive growth in podcasting around the world, we are thrilled to partner with Warner Bros. to build this slate of programming drawn from the worlds of DC and WB,” commented Dawn Ostroff, chief content and advertising business officer, Spotify, who continued: “We could not be more excited to be working with Robert, Peter and the entire Warner Bros. and DC teams to deliver new exclusive stories to the more than 286 million Spotify users.”

    “Warner Bros. has been synonymous with compelling and unforgettable storytelling for nearly a century, and we’re continuing to expand that legacy across all types of media platforms for our fans,” said Robert Steele and Peter Girardi, in a joint statement. “Spotify’s deep engagement with its consumers and commitment to prioritizing their podcast vertical makes them an ideal partner in this endeavor. We’re excited to bring beloved characters and franchises from DC and Warner Bros. into this new world and to use our storytelling prowess to redefine what’s possible in the scripted audio space.”

    The agreement with Spotify continues Warner Bros.’ commitment to storytelling across all platforms and builds upon a January 2020 first-look deal WBDN announced with Rainy Day Podcasts — a new company formed by Jagged Films partners Mick Jagger & Victoria Pearman (“Shine a Light,” “Get on Up,” “Vinyl,” “Enigma”), producer Steve Bing (“The Polar Express,” “Marley,” “Neil Young: Heart of Gold,” “Shine a Light”), and Oscar®-nominated writer Josh Olson (“A History of Violence”) — to produce a slate of original narrative podcasts.

  • Regional market contributes 12 per cent to Cartoon Network Enterprises

    Regional market contributes 12 per cent to Cartoon Network Enterprises

    MUMBAI: It was a big deal for a 90s kid from non-metro India to get hands on a Batman or Superman figurine. A Justice League T-shirt would have bowled them over because authentic merchandise shopping was a ‘city’ thing, for the sheer lack of access. Hence, counterfeits thrived.

    Since then, the merchandising industry in the country has come a long way given that consumers can now access their favourite character-driven consumer products at the click of a button online, sitting at home. As Cartoon Network Enterprises (CNE) director Anand Singh rightly pointed out, e-commerce has helped Cartoon Network expand the licensing and merchandising business to the regional and Tier I and Tier II markets as well.

    CNE is the licensing and merchandising arm of Turner Broadcasting System Asia Pacific.

    “Earlier, there was a restriction of location, one could have limited inventory per character, pilferage and cost of carrying inventory, and promoter cost added to very high overheads, which made the business difficult. But, e-commerce has revolutionised the process, by adding another distribution channel. The cash-on-delivery proposition has allowed the assortment of products to be exposed to potential consumers in newer markets,” Singh informed.

    Singh shared that 30 per cent of the business done by CNE comes from e-commerce with double-digital growth rate. The merchandising and licensing division itself has grown three times since 2014, thereby identifying e-commerce as one of the key growth drivers.

    Close to 12 per cent of CNE’s business currently comes from the emerging regional markets, including a significant chunk from the north-eastern states.

    “We have recently tied up with a brand called Dukes from Hyderabad.
    There is a company called Kishna Snacks from Guwahati which has done amazing work with the promotional license for Batman Vs Superman, and Tom and Jerry,” Singh said.

    While ease of access through online shopping has been a major boon to the business made in regional markets, it’s the willingness of local and regional brands that have augmented growth. The country’s new-found love for Hollywood superhero movies can be credited for this acceptability.

    And, since CNE also represents the Warner Brothers Consumer Products IP portfolio for south Asian markets, its proposition for the regional markets has only increased. The portfolio includes hit favourites like Tom & Jerry, Looney Tunes, Scooby Doo, Superheroes from the DC portfolio such as Batman, Superman, Flash, along with various WB movie franchises such as Harry Potter series and TV shows such as F.R.I.E.N.D.S. and Big Bang Theory, etc.

    “We see a lot of interest from the regional FMCG and food and beverage players. It all comes down to the resonance with these classical franchises. Brands have come to realise that buying licenses to these properties is not as expensive as they thought it was. There was a general assumption in those markets that being regional players it would be too much to go after global franchises. But, that mindset is changing and more and more regional players are opening up to the idea,” he said.

    According to industry guesstimates, currently, licensed merchandised market for character IPs or franchises for kids stands at Rs 5000 crore, growing from Rs 3500 crore, last year. Without sharing any figure, Singh asserted that, though CNE may not add huge numbers to the network’s top line, it’s a highly profitable business.

    In 2012, Cartoon Network Enterprises was expecting a turnover of Rs.1,650 crore in the next three years as against a Rs.850 crore turnover previously, according to media reports (source:
    licensing.org)

    Of the major 500 licensees, CNE handles close to 135 across India and south Asian markets with more than 5000 SKUs on retail across mass distribution, modern trade and e-commerce. Currently, CNE South Asia looks after the territories of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal, which will be added later this year.

    CNE’s most recent tie-ups include strategic partnerships with Myntra for apparel and fashion accessories and a DTR (direct to retail) deal with Future Group across product categories.

  • Regional market contributes 12 per cent to Cartoon Network Enterprises

    Regional market contributes 12 per cent to Cartoon Network Enterprises

    MUMBAI: It was a big deal for a 90s kid from non-metro India to get hands on a Batman or Superman figurine. A Justice League T-shirt would have bowled them over because authentic merchandise shopping was a ‘city’ thing, for the sheer lack of access. Hence, counterfeits thrived.

    Since then, the merchandising industry in the country has come a long way given that consumers can now access their favourite character-driven consumer products at the click of a button online, sitting at home. As Cartoon Network Enterprises (CNE) director Anand Singh rightly pointed out, e-commerce has helped Cartoon Network expand the licensing and merchandising business to the regional and Tier I and Tier II markets as well.

    CNE is the licensing and merchandising arm of Turner Broadcasting System Asia Pacific.

    “Earlier, there was a restriction of location, one could have limited inventory per character, pilferage and cost of carrying inventory, and promoter cost added to very high overheads, which made the business difficult. But, e-commerce has revolutionised the process, by adding another distribution channel. The cash-on-delivery proposition has allowed the assortment of products to be exposed to potential consumers in newer markets,” Singh informed.

    Singh shared that 30 per cent of the business done by CNE comes from e-commerce with double-digital growth rate. The merchandising and licensing division itself has grown three times since 2014, thereby identifying e-commerce as one of the key growth drivers.

    Close to 12 per cent of CNE’s business currently comes from the emerging regional markets, including a significant chunk from the north-eastern states.

    “We have recently tied up with a brand called Dukes from Hyderabad.
    There is a company called Kishna Snacks from Guwahati which has done amazing work with the promotional license for Batman Vs Superman, and Tom and Jerry,” Singh said.

    While ease of access through online shopping has been a major boon to the business made in regional markets, it’s the willingness of local and regional brands that have augmented growth. The country’s new-found love for Hollywood superhero movies can be credited for this acceptability.

    And, since CNE also represents the Warner Brothers Consumer Products IP portfolio for south Asian markets, its proposition for the regional markets has only increased. The portfolio includes hit favourites like Tom & Jerry, Looney Tunes, Scooby Doo, Superheroes from the DC portfolio such as Batman, Superman, Flash, along with various WB movie franchises such as Harry Potter series and TV shows such as F.R.I.E.N.D.S. and Big Bang Theory, etc.

    “We see a lot of interest from the regional FMCG and food and beverage players. It all comes down to the resonance with these classical franchises. Brands have come to realise that buying licenses to these properties is not as expensive as they thought it was. There was a general assumption in those markets that being regional players it would be too much to go after global franchises. But, that mindset is changing and more and more regional players are opening up to the idea,” he said.

    According to industry guesstimates, currently, licensed merchandised market for character IPs or franchises for kids stands at Rs 5000 crore, growing from Rs 3500 crore, last year. Without sharing any figure, Singh asserted that, though CNE may not add huge numbers to the network’s top line, it’s a highly profitable business.

    In 2012, Cartoon Network Enterprises was expecting a turnover of Rs.1,650 crore in the next three years as against a Rs.850 crore turnover previously, according to media reports (source:
    licensing.org)

    Of the major 500 licensees, CNE handles close to 135 across India and south Asian markets with more than 5000 SKUs on retail across mass distribution, modern trade and e-commerce. Currently, CNE South Asia looks after the territories of India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka and Nepal, which will be added later this year.

    CNE’s most recent tie-ups include strategic partnerships with Myntra for apparel and fashion accessories and a DTR (direct to retail) deal with Future Group across product categories.

  • Cartoon Network Enterprises & Vanesa Care ink licensing deal for Superman deos

    Cartoon Network Enterprises & Vanesa Care ink licensing deal for Superman deos

    MUMBAI: Cartoon Network Enterprises (CNE), the licensing and merchandising arm of Turner International India, has inked a strategic partnership with personal care manufacturer Vanesa Care to bring Superman branded deodorants.

     

    The tie-up has introduced its first ever ‘Denver Superman’ deodorants in two variants – ‘Superman Power’ and ‘Superman Strength.’ The deos are priced at Rs 250 and are available at major departmental and online stores across the country.

     

    Turner International India SVP and managing director – South Asia Siddharth Jain added, “Cartoon Network Enterprises has recently been appointed as the master licensee for the Warner Bros. Consumer Products (WBCP) portfolio for South Asia. This deal with Vanesa Group will expand the WBCP brands and Superman into new and exciting categories and draw consumer excitement.”

    Vanesa Care CMO Saurabh Gupta said, “We are glad to be associated with Cartoon Network Enterprises. Our vision is to focus on innovation and always to give a world class product, which has never been introduced in the Indian market before. It is all about understanding the Indian consumer’s needs and offer them the best. We will continue to expand our product portfolio by increasing the number of relevant products in the market.”

     

    Significantly, even after tough market competition, Vanesa Care’s Denver deo has been performing consistently and growing at 35 per cent year-on-year with innovation across category, according to the company.

     

    The Denver Superman Power deodorant has an intense yet soothing, masculine yet gentle fragrance imbibing the characteristics of Superman.

  • JAKKS bags licensing rights of ‘Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice’

    JAKKS bags licensing rights of ‘Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice’

    MUMBAI: US toymaker JAKKS Pacific, Inc. has inked a licensing agreement with Warner Bros. Consumer Products to manufacture, distribute and market a line of toys and products based on Warner Bros. Pictures’ and RatPac Dune Entertainment’s feature film, Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice. 

     

    The movie, which is scheduled to hit theaters on 25 March, 2016, pairs the two Super Heroes for the first time on the big screen and is directed by Zack Snyder. It stars Ben Affleck as Batman and Henry Cavill as Superman.

     

    The agreement, which covers the Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice film, also includes a domestic and international renewal for the full DC Comics franchise. The multi-category license includes large-scale action figures and vehicles, accessories, games, wagons and more. JAKKS plans to launch its Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice product line in Spring 2016 to coincide with the film’s worldwide theatrical release. New DC Comics product lines will also be available at retailers in Fall 2015.

     

    “We could not be more excited to be part of the eagerly awaited Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice franchise and welcome the opportunity to bring to life two of the most epic Super Heroes of all time. We look forward to continuing our legacy of creating innovative and character-specific toys for the DC Comics line, especially in our highly detailed and collectible Big Figures line,” said JAKKS Pacific executive vice president of marketing John Blaney.

     

    “JAKKS consistently brings a larger than life statement to the toy aisle and we look forward to expanding our existing DC Comics offerings and building upon this partnership by bringing the epic Batman v Superman: Dawn of Justice to life with an all-new Big Figures line,” added Warner Bros. Consumer Products executive vice president Karen McTier.

  • Warner & DC Entertainment launch websites for kids

    Warner & DC Entertainment launch websites for kids

    MUMBAI: Warner Bros. Consumer Products (WBCP) and DC Entertainment have launched three new entertainment destinations for kids namely ScoobyDoo.com, LooneyTunes.com and DCKids.com that will engage fans with all their favorite Warner Bros. characters and DC Comics Super Heroes in a dynamic immersive experience, featuring original new content.

     

    “Now, more than ever, providing universal access to a world of content is key to engaging even our youngest fans. We are excited to offer this new entertainment experience that delivers fun and engagement for kids across multiple digital platforms,” said Warner Bros. Consumer Products executive vice president Karen McTier.

     

    With key interactive features designed to offer exciting content to kids any time they want from any Internet-connected device in the format they have grown to expect in today’s digital environment, ScoobyDoo.com, LooneyTunes.com and DCKids.com are now launched and will allow kids to experience immersive worlds 24/7 and connect with Warner Bros.’ beloved franchise animation characters and the famed universe of DC Comics.

     

    The WB Kids character driven environments, ScoobyDoo.com and LooneyTunes.com, will inspire imagination and encourage interaction with many of Warner Bros.’ most recognizable franchise animation characters, including Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Scooby-Doo, Shaggy and the Gang, engaged through fan-favorite content, exclusive videos, interactive and downloadable activities, comics and exciting games.

     

    “With DCKids.com our goal is to provide a kids-focused online destination that delivers unparalleled access to our iconic characters such as Batman, Superman and Wonder Woman in a way that is fun, engaging and appropriate for our younger fans. We know kids have an affinity for our characters, and that interacting with DC Super Heroes can be inspirational and a powerful source of imagination and play,” said DC Entertainment SVP marketing and global franchise management Amit Desai.

     

    DCKids.com will feature DC Comics’ Super Heroes, including Batman, Superman, Wonder Woman and more, in exciting games and interactive ways to play. Original digital shorts from Batman Unlimited and DC Super Friends will be featured on the site.

     

    Developed for kids aged 4-11, the discoverable digital ecosystem offers relatable entertainment for kids through these immersive worlds that feature components such as original content, videos, downloadable activities, games, quizzes and contests. Additionally, an international market rollout in Australia, Brazil, France, Germany, Italy, Mexico, Portugal, Russia, Spain and the UK is planned for the coming months.

  • DMG Entertainment invests in Valiant; to make new superhero movies

    DMG Entertainment invests in Valiant; to make new superhero movies

    MUMBAI: Watch out Spiderman, Superman and Batman. The superhero universe just got bigger. Valiant Entertainment has secured an undisclosed nine-figure investment from Chinese entertainment company DMG, the co-producers and co-financiers of Iron Man 3. The investment will be for feature-film financing as well as publishing, television and licensing opportunities.

     

    DMG chief executive officer Dan Mintz said, “Comic superheroes are profitable and highly sought intellectual properties for film franchises so taking a stake in the last indecent massive comic universe is a strategic investment for DMG that will produce movies and TV that are both appealing and relevant to a global audience.”

     

    Current projects under development at Valiant include Shadowman, Bloodshot and Archer & Armstrong. Bloodshot is in development with Sony Pictures and Neal Moritz’s Original Film (producers of the Fast and the Furious and Jump Street franchises). Shadowman, with a script by J. Michael Straczynski, and Archer & Armstrong, being written by Bendavid Grabinski, are also in development.

     

    In addition to developing films for release in the United States and China, Valiant and DMG will develop the former’s characters for new audiences in China and the Asia-Pacific region. DMG and Valiant will also be pursuing Chinese licensing for Valiant properties beyond film in publishing, animation and theme parks, as well as toys and apparel.

  • Turner India expands kids portfolio with Toonami

    Turner India expands kids portfolio with Toonami

    MUMBAI: In order to provide an extra dose of entertainment, Turner International India is expanding its kid’s entertainment portfolio with the launch of a new action-adventure channel – Toonami. 

     

    The channel aims to bring high-octane animated action to kids, superhero fans and their families across the country.

     

    The new channel, which is based on the programming block of the same name on Cartoon Network in the US, is a 24-hour English action and anime destination designed for viewers seeking a full tilt, rollercoaster ride of adventure, quips, drama and a whole lot more. 

     

    The channel has a significant presence in Asia Pacific across 14 countries including Singapore, Philippines, Thailand, Hong Kong, Indonesia and Sri Lanka amongst others.

     

    In India, Toonami complements Turner’s kids’ entertainment portfolio of Cartoon Network and Pogo.

     

    Turner International India managing director, South Asia Siddharth Jain believes that it will meet the growing demand for premium quality action-adventure and superhero content. 

     

    “It is a real proud moment for Turner to bring in a channel like Toonami to our young Indian audiences – we now offer a robust entertainment experience for all ages and interests,” he said.

     

    The channel will feature superhero franchises such as Batman, Superman, Transformers: Robots in Disguise, Justice League, Inazuma Eleven Go, Dragon Ball Z and many more.

     

    Toonami is being distributed by Taj Television and is available on digital cable platforms like Siticable, Indusind Media (Incable), ICNCL, Home Cable and JPR Cable Network across Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata and Bangalore.