Netflix, the OTT giant, has announced that they have joined forces with the Roald Dahl Story Company (RDSC), to explore the unique treasure trove of globally loved stories and present them to current and future fans in creative new ways.
“This acquisition builds on the partnership we started three years ago to create a slate of animated TV series. For example, Academy Award winning filmmaker Taika Waititi and Academy Award nominee Phil Johnston are now hard at work on a series based on the world of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. In addition, we’re working with Sony and Working Title on an adaptation of Matilda The Musical,” Netflix said in a statement.
“These projects opened our eyes to a much more ambitious venture – the creation of a unique universe across animated and live action films and TV, publishing, games, immersive experiences, live theatre, consumer products and more,” they added.
With 300 million books sold and one new book sold every 2.6 seconds, Roald Dahl stories have immortalised characters like Matilda, The BFG, Fantastic Mr. Fox, Willy Wonka and The Twits. Now they aim to deliver entertaining stories across the platform.
Dahl’s books have been translated into 63 languages. The collaboration will open the doors to worldwide audiences for Netflix, airing contents based on these marvelous works.
According to them, as they bring these timeless tales to more audiences in new formats, they will be committed to maintaining the unique spirit and the universal themes of surprise and kindness, while sprinkling some fresh magic into the mix.
They used a quote from Dahl’s work: There is a moment in James and the Giant Peach when the Ladybird says ‘We are now about to visit the most marvellous places and see the most wonderful things!’. The Centipede replies, ‘There is no knowing what we shall see!’.
Netflix and RDSC share a deep love of storytelling and a growing, global fan base.
“Together, we have an extraordinary opportunity to write multiple new chapters of these beloved stories, delighting children and adults around the world for generations to come,” the statement added.
However, there was no financial disclosure made.