Barbie is perhaps one of the most iconic and universal characters across the globe. As the foremost fashion doll, the now fifty-something year old Barbie brand continues to move forward strong. Not just with the countless lines of dolls and accessories. But also with the associated film series.
Ever since 2001 Mattel has released films starting the famous blonde. From retellings of classic and beloved tales like “Swan Lake” and “Rapunzel.” To more modern tales filled with mystical mermaids, fairies and magic and adventure. We have seen so many side to both Barbie herself and the characters she plays.
This year alone we have seen Barbie star as herself in not one, but three films. “Barbie: Spy Squad”, “Barbie: Starlight Adventure” and more recently released “Barbie & Her Sisters in a Puppy Chase.” In years prior, we only would usually only see two films released. One in early spring and one in early fall. Yet as notable as the fact that 2016 brought fans three new Barbie tales. There was a little extra bonus.
And that would be none other than “Barbie: Dreamtopia.”
Despite what the title might lead you to believe, “Dreamtopia” is actually stars none other than Barbie’s youngest sister, Chelsea. Unlike other films in the ever-growing line up. This four-four minute special made its debut on Nickelodeon. And only recently has been released strictly on DVD format in either a bundle Wal-Mart exclusive set with “Starlight Adventure.” Or as a single title at the retail giant.
I must admit that I have not seen “Dreamtopia” in full. I only managed to catch the ending of it when it was on Nick. But it did look like something that could easily be continued on. And from the looks of it Mattel plans to do just that.
According to a press release from Mattel Creations, there are two new animated Barbie series AND a Barbie Special on the horizon. The first new series is the “Barbie Dreamtopia” series which will be targeted towards the younger preschool audience. The second series, “Barbie: Dreamhouse Adventures,” is described as a CGI sitcom intended for kids ages 5-11.
Barbie Dreamtopia follows the journey of Barbie’s youngest sister, Chelsea, who travels with her big sis from their CGI-animated world to a fantastical 2D-animated land known as Dreamtopia.
Barbie: Dreamhouse Adventures, on the other hand, delves deeper into the family background of the iconic doll-based character and her sisters, Chelsea, Stacie and Skipper.
Both series are set to premiere in the fall of 2017, alongside a new one-hour TV movie entitled Barbie Dolphin Magic.
But the press release goes on to mention yet another new Barbie series in the works. A special called “Enchantimals” also set for 2017. This project is described as a “nature based adventure series” that follows a group of friends in the forest with extraordinary animal abilities.
And one final note, Mattel Creations announced competition show, “The Toy Box,” an all-ages competition-based series featuring toy inventors, a kids jury and host Eric Stonestreet (Modern Family).
Each episode will feature expert toy inventors from around the world as they compete in front of a judging panel made up of kids for the opportunity to present their creations in the season finale. The winner of the final episode will win the opportunity to bring their creation to market, with marketing, design and manufacturing support from Mattel. The winning toy design will be available for purchase at retail as the season finale airs.
Mattel is really expanding out and it looks fantastic. It seems like they are trying their hand in a lot of different areas. There will surely be something for every type of fan. The only thing that makes me curious is where will we see all this content at? Will it be exclusive to any streaming service, will a network be airing it, or will it all be on YouTube?
Guess we are going to have to keep our eyes peeled.
Join the conversation: What are your thoughts on all this news from Mattel? What has you the most excited?
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