Kids
Disney launches Kingdom Comics
MUMBAI: Disney Studios has launched a graphic novel business called Kingdom Comics. The plan is to adapt the work into movies.
As a part of the new launch, Disney Studios has signed a multi-year deal with writer-actor Ahmet Zappa, TV executive Harris Katleman and writer-editor Christian Beranek to manage the division. The basic aim is to create new titles for new film projects and also to re-imagine and revive movies from Disney‘s library of live-action films.
Zappa is the younger son of late musician Frank Zappa and sold the rights of his first novel, The Monstrous Memoirs of a Mighty McFearless, to Disney and Jerry Bruckheimer Films in 2006. He is writing the second instalment in that series and is executive producing a feature version of Fraggle Rock with the Jim Henson Co.
Katleman is a former president and CEO of 20th Century Fox Television. Beranek formed his own publishing company, Silent Devil, in 1996, producing titles like Dracula vs. King Arthur and Super Frat. None of the graphic artists’ names have been disclosed, though the trio stated that they were looking out for new and established talent.
The new launch is keeping in mind competitor’s entry into graphic novel business. Kingdom Comics already has a first-look distribution deal with Disney Publishing Worldwide.
If Disney disagrees to publish the book, Kingdom Comics can search for new avenues. Kingdom Comics is not bound to compulsorily publish a certain number of graphic novels in a year.
The studio will selectively pick up titles and develop them on case-by-case basis. It also will place the company in business with established talent which will basically develop into a research and development division.
Competitors like Paramount and Universal have deals with Marvel and Dark Horse Comics respectively. Warner Bros. owns DC Comics.
Kids
Sony YAY! launches ‘House of Masti’ to celebrate 20 years of Shin chan
Comedian Kiku Sharda joins the fun with a special rap track as the mischievous icon returns to Indian TV.
MUMBAI: Shin chan is back and this time, he’s bringing the whole house of masti with him! Sony YAY!, India’s leading kids’ entertainment channel, has unveiled ‘House of Masti’, a specially curated programming block to mark 20 years of the iconic animated series Shin chan on Indian television. The campaign transforms the beloved character’s mischievous world into a fresh, high-energy viewing experience. It features new episodes, fan-favourite moments, and themed programming stunts, all designed to stand out from regular broadcasts.
Adding extra sparkle to the celebration, popular comedian Kiku Sharda has joined the campaign. He anchors the integration with a lively rap track titled ‘Shin chan ka YAY! Dhamaal’, infusing contemporary music and humour into the beloved series.
Sony YAY! business head of kids and animation Ambesh Tiwari said, “Over the past 20 years, Shin chan has built a strong and enduring connection with audiences in India. With ‘House of Masti’, we are celebrating this milestone through a differentiated, campaign-led experience. Kiku Sharda and the rap track add a fun, high-energy layer that will resonate with today’s kids and families.”
Starting 27 April, viewers can enjoy the World Television Premiere of Shin chan along with new episodes and an exciting lineup of blockbuster movies on Sony YAY!.
By blending nostalgia with fresh, engaging content, Sony YAY! is ensuring that the cheeky, laughter-filled adventures of Shin chan continue to entertain and connect with new generations across the country.
In a world full of serious cartoons, Shin chan remains delightfully naughty and with ‘House of Masti’, Sony YAY! is making sure his brand of chaos stays as fresh and fun as ever. Get ready for some serious masti!
