Imira Signs Co-Pro Deal on Escape Hockey

BARCELONA: Imira Entertainment has entered into a deal to co-produce the new 3D HD series Escape Hockey, which is created by Enne Entertainment Studios of Spain.

Imira will also handle worldwide distribution for the series, which is aimed at 6- to 12-year-olds. The 26×26-minute show is a blend of comedy and space adventure. Escape Hockey will be produced in two versions, a standard TV series and an interactive treatment that will feature the gaming format "Watch and Play," a system that allows the viewer to watch the series and play mini-games integrated into each chapter at the same time. Scenes incorporated in the story line will be played out by the viewer. This will be developed with VOD, online, interactive TV and games-console platforms in mind.

Sergi Reitg, the CEO at Imira Entertainment, said: “This is an exciting project to be involved in. The ‘Watch and Play’ format gives us many opportunities to extend the viewing experience for fans. It will also be an attractive element for broadcasters as it will provide unique content that crosses the channel and online platforms. We will be showcasing this series at MIPTV and looking for broadcast partners.”

Javier Martinez, Enne’s creative director and Escape Hockey executive producer, added, “We have worked very hard in the past years to create a new format that adds value to kids using more interactive tools. This is how we created the ‘Watch and Play’ format and we strongly believe that it will help broadcasters to extend their reach to new media and create loyalty around brands. Working with Imira allows us to benefit from their huge experience and know how in the kid entertainment industry.”