Digital-first entertainment is the norm, but physical media continues to have a place alongside streaming and digital electronic sell-through (EST).
Mattel inked a multiyear physical and digital distribution deal with NCircle Entertainment and Mill Creek Entertainment for series and specials that debut first on Netflix. Under the new agreement, NCircle and Mill Creek will produce DVDs for the U.S. and Canada in addition to offering select titles for sale on digital EST and video-on-demand (VOD).
The deal includes Masters of the Universe: Revelation, the upcoming He-Man and the Masters of the Universe, Thomas & Friends: All Engines Go, and a host of Barbie content, including the Barbie Dreamtopia special, the first two seasons of Barbie Dreamhouse Adventures, Barbie Princess Adventure, Barbie & Chelsea: The Lost Birthday, and the upcoming Barbie: Big City, Big Dreams film.
“Our primary focus is on entertainment that is accessible and relevant for young children, and Barbie, Thomas & Friends, and Masters of the Universe will be a perfect addition to our product line-up this year, and for years to come,” says NCircle’s Mary Flynn, vice president of sales and content acquisitions.
The first wave of titles will begin hitting retail in the months ahead.