Written by: Matthew McGuire
The company Amazon announced today that is has signed a multi-year, multimillion dollar production deal with American Girl from Mattel. The first special is scheduled to premiere on Amazon Prime Video in the US, UK, Germany and Austria later this year.
This first step in a content development deal could also see additional shows being created from the Mattel library of well-known characters.
Amazon has also been acquiring content at the Sundance Film Festival. According to The New York Times, Amazon paid $10 million for Manchester by the Sea after the film was screened at the festival.
“We’re interested in distinctive films by artists who have something new and interesting to say,” said Roy Price, head of Amazon Studios.
Amazon Prime Video continues to steamroll into 2016 with forward momentum.
The American Girl series by Amazon’s original kids programming, will face competition with a live-action series Just Add Magic. That program recently set a record as the most successful Amazon Original Kids premiere weekend in terms of US Prime Video streams and hours.
“American Girl resonates strongly with kids and parents alike through its message of self-confidence, adventure, exploration and learning,” said Tara Sorensen, Head of Kids Programming, Amazon Studios. “Their research dives deep and adds rich layers to the IP that are unparalleled in this space which, in turn, will facilitate a truly enriched on-screen experience.”
“Amazon Studios has differentiated itself by creating shows that bring more than just entertainment to families,” said Catherine Balsam-Schwaber, Chief Content Officer of Mattel Inc. “Their focus on creating positive role models that both inspire and educate was an absolute perfect fit with Mattel’s mission of creating purposeful play. Partnering withAmazon shows our commitment to innovation and to bringing content to our customers where, when and how they want to watch it.”
“The Amazon Studios and American Girl ethos are so closely aligned,” said Juliana Chugg, Global Core Brands Officer. “American Girl’s roots are in creating smart, engaging content for girls. Amazon Studios will help us further our mission to champion and unite even more fans by bringing our popular characters to life in a whole new way. We can’t wait for families to enjoy the new American Girl specials together.”
Amazon News