Creating a Classic Animation Property
What makes an animation property successful and productive economically over the long term? The answer is magic, not something unexplainable, but something that can be accomplished by the right creative team. There are certain elements needed in an animation property to find acceptance and fans around the world, and to withstand the test of time. The characters must be unforgettable and loveable, even the villains, and yet maintain a quality that makes them seem like old friends to the audience and buyers. The idea of the Tooth Fairy is known in most countries around the world, but it’s never specifically defined in a universally acceptable form or character. What we plan to accomplish with Toothfaireez (our own special spelling) is to create not just one tooth fairy, but a whole family of them, as well as two very clever enemies. It is the dynamic of their conflicts (within the family and against the bad guys) that will give Toothfaireez its uniqueness. Their physical appearance will combine elements of classic Disney-style character design with modern hipness, technology and attitudes, thus creating a merger of the past, the present and the future, and a totally unique look. We will re-define this classic international myth. From this basic concept, it will be possible to create sequels, TV series, shorts for the internet, and numerous forms of merchandising based on the Toothfaireez.
Merchandising the Toothfaireez Franchise
There is a film industry joke that merchandising is “the tail wagging the dog.” Revenues from merchandising often exceed exhibition and broadcasting income of the property, itself. This is why the studios develop what are now referred to as franchises or “tent pole properties” such as Star Wars, Star Trek and Iron Man. Audiences look forward to the next installment of every one of these properties with great anticipation. This translates into immense cash flow and profits. Toothfaireez, with its unique spelling, and invention of new characters, is the perfect property to create multiple income streams. Dental health products, toys, games, clothing and recreational merchandise based on Toothfaireez are just a few examples of cross-promotion between the concept and the product lines.
Broadcasting and Media
Film distribution and broadcast media have expanded exponentially to provide many more outlets and opportunities to sell programming than in the past. Video-on-Demand, internet streaming, new satellite, cable and network channels are all competing for programming content to fill out their 24 hour schedules. When one considers that children’s programming is one of the highest priorities among television and video program buyers around the world, it is easy to see how Toothfaireez could be easily licensed in more than 100 countries, 1,000 video platforms, and in more than 25 languages. In this ever-expanding media landscape and marketplace, the possibilities for Toothfaireez would appear limitless, and the profits substantial.