A few years ago, Disney bought Marvel Entertainment. Very few people know that Marvel's former animation company (and its library) was originally DePatie-Freleng Enterprises, the studio that brought us the classic Pink Panther shorts and various animated Dr. Seuss television specials. Since Disney wishes to own as much of a complete DFE/Marvel library, Disney bought the original theatrical shorts and television episodes from MGM. (MGM apparently isn't all that interested in animation due to
Igor being a flop.) The Dr. Seuss specials will be released on home video by Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment with association of Dr. Seuss Enterprises.
Disney has big plans for the DFE characters. The Pink Panther, Inspector, Ant and Aadvark, Tijuana Toads, Ronald and Rattfink, the Dogfather, Hoot Kloot, and the Blue Racer will appear in a new animated series set to air on the Disney Channel. A few of the characters will also appear at Disney theme parks as walk-around costumed characters. The Pink Panther will appear on much more merchandise than before and he will even have an appearance in a future Kingdom Hearts video game. The best part is Disney has a line of films featuring DFE characters. (The Pink Panther film annouced by ForumDocXV will be MGM's last venture with the Panther.)
Here are some films in development:
- The Super 6 (CG animated film produced by Walt Disney Animation Studios with association of Marvel)
- Hoot Kloot (live-action western produced by Jerry Bruckheimer)
- Cars 4: The Blue Snake in Town (Lightening McQueen and Mater prepare the Blue Racer for the Big Race. Produced by Pixar.)
- The Inspector (Live-action mystery film. Will Ferrell is set to star as the Inspector.)
- Misterjaw (Live-action/CG feature which will give a fresh update to Misterjaw and Catfish.)
Disney sure has big plans for the DFE characters. I hope they end up creating a new generation of fans.
EDIT: Speedy fast mentioned to use Disney bought several other companies too. However, I don't know the details of what Disney has in store for their new subsidiaries. I only know details on DFE. Sorry.
