Kew Media Distribution Pacts with Funimation for Robotech

Kew Media Distribution has licensed Robotech: The Series and the sequel films Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles and Robotech 2: The Sentinels to Funimation, a subsidiary of Sony Pictures Television.

Upon the expiration of existing third-party deals, this agreement gives VOD, EST, home entertainment and merchandising rights worldwide, excluding Japan, to over 45 hours of anime content to Funimation. Further, Sony Pictures Entertainment Motion Pictures Group is currently developing a Robotech live-action feature film.

Produced by Harmony Gold and Tatsunoko Production, the action-adventure animated series Robotech first premiered in 1985. The series starts as the human race finds itself under attack by gigantic alien warships, the only hope for survival are the secrets of Robotech, an alien technology that has given humans access to powerful robotic systems and interstellar spacecraft. The Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles film sequel picks up the story many years later, while Robotech 2: The Sentinels sees two cultures—the citizens of Earth and the planet Optera—coming together to determine the fate of their two worlds.

Jonathan Ford, executive VP of sales at Kew Media Distribution, said: “Funimation is the ‘go-to’ destination for sub and dub and we are very pleased to have licensed Robotech to this global anime powerhouse where it will join the very best series in the genre. We know this highly-regarded and incredibly popular cult animation series will excite and delight Robotech fans around the globe.”

Colin Decker, general manager of Funimation, added: “Robotech is a beloved and foundational series for fans around the world. We are so proud and excited to connect this iconic series with millions more fans through Funimation.”