Universal Pictures and Hasbro Inc. form a six-year strategic partnership to produce at least four motion pictures based on some of the world's best-known and beloved brands, including Monopoly, Candy Land, Clue, Ouija, Battleship, Magic, The Gathering and Stretch Armstrong. Under terms of the deal, Hasbro will partner exclusively with Universal Pictures for feature films, with the exception of Transformers, which became the centerpiece of the 2007 smash hit movie directed by Michael Bay and has already spawned a sequel; and GI Joe, which is currently filming. The first movie from this deal will be released in 2010 or 2011, and Universal will release at least one film a year thereafter. "Universal's creativity and worldwide marketing and distribution strength make them the perfect partner," says Brian Goldner, chief operating officer, Hasbro Inc. "Today's Hasbro is so much more than a traditional toy and game company, and this partnership is a powerful example of how we are offering our consumers new ways to enjoy unique and immersive experiences with our brands." As part of its commitment to expanding its presence in the world of entertainment, Hasbro has recently hired Lisa Licht as its new general manager of entertainment and licensing. In addition, in August 2007, Hasbro announced an agreement with Electronic Arts to develop digital games based on many of its properties across a variety of platforms.
