Streaming giant says acquisition of Millarworld is natural progression as it looks to build IP.
Netflix has taken another step in its plans to acquire IP and ownership of stories, purchasing Scottish comic book company Millarworld.
The deal marks the first ever company acquisition in the streaming giant’s history and underlines its ambition to build a formidable portfolio of IP – which could have an impact on the licensing business.
Millarworld – which was founded by Mark Millar with his wife Lucy – has a portfolio of characters and stories.
Netflix will now bring these to life through films, series and kids’ shows exclusively for its members globally.
Millarworld will continue to create and publish new stories and character franchise under the Netflix label.
Three of Millarworld’s franchises – Wanted, Kick-Ass and Kingsman – have been adapted into films that have taken in nearly $913m combined at global box offices. However, Kick-Ass and Kingsman are not part of the deal, according to The Independent.
Netflix chief content officer Ted Sarandos commented: “Mark has created a next-generation comics universe, full of indelible characters living in situations people around the world can identify easily with.
“We look forward to creating new Netflix Originals from several existing franchises as well as new super-hero, anti-hero, fantasy, sci-fi and horror stories Mark and his team will continue to create and publish.”
Mark – who previously worked at Marvel for eight years – issued a statement on the Millarworld website which said: “Over the years, Millarworld has amassed 20 different franchises working with the world’s greatest artists and now Millarworld has been bought by the hottest, most exciting entertainment company on the planet.
“To say this is the best thing that ever happened in our professional lives would be an understatement.”
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