Experts are predicting that Pixar’s upcoming film Up will not be a big merchandising hit due to the film’s protagonists: a plus-size boy scout and a 78-year-old cranky man.
According to Richard Greenfield of Pali Research, “We doubt younger boys will be that excited by the main character,” while also noting the lack of a female lead.
Robert A. Iger, Disney’s chief executive, responded, “We seek to make great films first. If a great film gives birth to a franchise, we are the first company to leverage such success. A check-the-boxes approach to creativity is more likely to result in blandness and failure.”
This feeling is mutual among Pixar’s Pete Docter, director of Up and Monsters, Inc.: “We make these films for ourselves. We’re kind of selfish that way.”
According to reports, Target and Wal-Mart will stock little Up merchandise because there was not much interest from manufacturers.
Thinkway Toys, Pixar supporter since Toy Story, which will not produce any Up products.
Fortunately for retailers, Pixar will deliver Toy Story 3 in 2010 and Cars 2 in 2011 — both of which will provide hundreds of product opportunities ranging from childrens’ toys to shampoo.
Via NY Times
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