EXCLUSIVE "JOHN LASSETER TALKS TOYS" VIDEO SERIES GOES LIVE ON YOUTUBE
What: Just as the classic Toy Story film franchise returns with the re-release of the first two movies in 3D this October, John Lasseter is taking fans behind-the-scenes in a new, exclusive seven-part YouTube video series (www.YouTube.com/disneyliving), where he introduces the new Toy Story Definitive toy line, the most film-accurate replicas yet. Each video offers a different part of the story from Lasseter's own words to a profile on each character - including Sheriff Woody, Rex, Space Aliens, RC Remote Control Car and Buzz Lightyear - along with never-before known facts and more.
From the stitching and facial expressions to the original packaging from the movie, Lasseter explains why this new Definitive toy line is a collector's dream. The highly detailed replicas from Thinkway Toys and Disney Consumer Products are fully articulated and come with many features such as sound effects and even include a Certificate of Authenticity. (Now available at mass retailers, Disney Stores and www.DisneyStores.com.)
Who: John Lasseter, chief creative officer of The Walt Disney Company and Academy Award�-winning filmmaker and director of Toy Story and Toy Story 2.
When: Thursday, August 27, 2009. The seven part series kicks off today with the release of the first video and a teaser for the next in the series. Subsequently, two new videos will be released each week until the series is completed.
Background Backed by all new content and companywide initiatives, the Toy Story franchise is primed for long-term growth opportunities setting the perfect stage for new and exciting merchandising and retail programs worldwide. The classic film franchise returns with the re-release of the first two movies in 3D for a two week engagement this October, a third new movie next summer and a spectacular array of new merchandise releasing this fall � from light up apparel and home decor to innovative toy lines such as the motor-powered Ultimate Buzz Lightyear robot which responds to 25 voice commands as well as an assortment of collectible figures and food, personal care, stationery and party items. Merchandise will step into high gear next summer with all new assortments inspired by Toy Story 3.
About Disney Consumer Products Disney Consumer Products and affiliates (DCP) is the business segment of The Walt Disney Company (NYSE: DIS) that extends the Disney brand to merchandise ranging from apparel, toys, home d�cor and books and magazines to foods and beverages, stationery, electronics and fine art. For more information, please visit www.disneyconsumerproducts.com or tune into www.YouTube.com/DisneyLiving.
