Video streaming service Netflix has signed an exclusive multiyear agreement with DreamWorks for new episodic TV programmes.
Claimed to be Netflix’s biggest deal for original first-run content, the collaboration also involves 300 hours of original programming.
The new programmes are to be inspired by characters from DreamWorks Animation’s famous franchises and forthcoming feature films, in addition to the Classic Media library, which DreamWorks acquired in 2012.
According to DreamWorks, the deal forms part of its effort to expand beyond films into TV production and distribution.
DreamWorks’ movies include Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda and The Croods, while its also owns characters including Casper the Friendly Ghost and Lassie.
Initial series of programmes are expected to go live in 2014, which would be premiered in all the territories in which Netflix operates.
In December 2013, Netflix would introduce a DreamWorks series dubbed as ‘Turbo: F.A.S.T’, based on the upcoming DreamWorks film ‘Turbo’, which entails a fast-moving snail.
From 2016, Netflix will have the exclusive first-run rights to Walt Disney movies upon their exit from theatres.
The video streaming service has about 27 million subscribers in the USA.
