Corus Entertainment’s Nelvana and d-rights, two key partners behind the global phenomena BEYBLADE, are teaming up again to develop Battle of the Planets: Phoenix Ninjas (tentative title), a re-imagination of the classic Japanese and mega-hit Battle of the Planets. The new series, will be a re-envisioned version of the 1978 hit for a new generation of boys aged 6 to 11.
“We’re thrilled to be working with d-rights on a new version of Battle of the Planets, which has a devoted worldwide fan base,” said Andrew Kerr, Co-Head, Nelvana Enterprises. “This classic property has endured with fans and we are ready to reach out to a new generation of kids. The series will be new, but will feature the same big action stories and compelling characters.”
Battle of the Planets: Phoenix Ninjas has a distinct look and feel that pays tribute to the classic series while ensuring that it works for today’s sophisticated young audiences.
“We are excited to partner with Nelvana to renew this reputable brand,” said Daizo Suzuki, President of d-rights Inc. “Battle of the Planets is one of the most well-known Japanese classic animation titles. Originally produced over 40 years ago, it has maintained its popularity until today. We are looking forward to working on its development to add another exciting installment of this evergreen property.”
Battle of the Planets was originally adapted by Sandy Frank Entertainment in 1978 from a Japanese series Gatchaman produced by TATSUNOKO PRODUCTION Co., Ltd. which was released in Japan in 1972. In the original Battle of the Planets, five defenders known as G-Force protect Earth from planet Spectra, home to the villainous masked commander, Zoltar. The team’s ship, The Phoenix, has the ability to transform into a flaming bird-shaped craft able to overcome any attack by functioning as a giant fiery phoenix. A feature film entitled Gatchaman, based on the original Japanese series, was released summer of 2013 in Japan.
