This collaboration represents Ubisoft's first venture into adapting CGI films for the videogame market and the beginning of a long-term collaboration with Sony Pictures Animation and SPCP. Furthermore, it reinforces Ubisoft's efforts to maintain a diverse portfolio that appeals to gamers of all ages.
In the action-adventure comedy "Open Season," Boog (Martin Lawrence), a happily domesticated grizzly bear, lives in the tranquil town of Timberline. Timberline is turned upside down when he meets Elliot (Ashton Kutcher), a scrawny, fast-talking wild mule deer. When the unlikely pair find themselves relocated to the wild just three days before hunting season, Boog and Elliot must learn to work together and unite the territorial animals of the forest. In a rowdy and wacky battle, they make the woods safe once and for all by turning the hunters into the hunted.
The agreement between SPCP and Ubisoft includes "Surf's Up", a mockumentary based on the groundbreaking revelation that surfing was actually invented by penguins. The Film is being directed by Ash Brannon (Toy Story 2) and Chris Buck (Tarzan), and produced by Chris Jenkins (credits include The Hunchback of Notre Dame). "Surf's Up" and its videogame adaptation are both scheduled for release in summer 2007. CGI animation for both films is by Sony Pictures Imageworks.
"The slate of films from Sony Pictures Animation offers tremendous opportunities to develop truly unique and entertaining games," said Yves Guillemot, chief executive officer at Ubisoft. "Ubisoft's long-term agreement with Sony Pictures allows us to be part of the creative process from the very beginning, working closely with the animators and directors on the vision and tone of the games. We are amazed by the quality of their work and their stories which will no doubt enthral the public. Their films will entertain audiences both young and old who we hope will relive their theatre experiences by interacting with the story through truly captivating games."
Ubisoft's award-winning Montreal studio will be developing the games based on both "Open Season" and "Surf's Up," working in close collaboration with the production teams at Sony Pictures Animation to ensure the videogames are faithful renderings both artistically and narratively. The "Open Season" title will be released on all available formats in conjunction with the film's debut in theatres, scheduled for September 29, 2006.
Open Season is based on the humor of cartoonist Steve Moore (In The Bleachers), who also serves as Executive Producer with John Carls. The film is being directed by Roger Allers (director of The Lion King) and Jill Culton (credits include Monsters, Inc., and Toy Story 2). The co-director is Anthony Stacchi (credits include Curious George and Antz). The producer is Michelle Murdocca (credits include Stuart Little and Stuart Little 2). Open Season is scheduled for theatrical release on September 29, 2006.