Lionsgate announced today that “American Idol” judge Paula Abdul has joined the creative team of Bratz: The Movie, the first live action feature based on Bratz(TM), the highly popular brand of fashion dolls manufactured by leading consumer entertainment products company MGA Entertainment. Crystal Sky Pictures is financing the live action feature film, directed by Sean McNamara (Raise Your Voice). Arad Productions’ Avi Arad, MGA’s Isaac Larian and Crystal Sky’s Steven Paul are producing the picture, and Crystal Sky Pictures president Benedict Carver will executive produce. Lionsgate is distributing Bratz: The Movie in the United States. The announcement was made jointly by Lionsgate’s President of Film Production Mike Paseornek and producers Arad, Larian and Paul. The film will begin production in February and is scheduled to open in August of 2007.
Abdul will serve as executive producer on Bratz: The Movie, and will play an integral part in several key creative areas, including music, choreography and fashion. She will work closely with the director, producers and casting director to discover fresh talent for the film. In addition, Abdul will portray one of the film’s major characters.
“We are overjoyed that Paula Abdul is bringing her tremendous talent to the creative team of ‘Bratz: The Movie,'” said Paseornek, Arad, Larian, and Paul. “Paula’s expertise in music, dance and fashion will be invaluable in creating the Bratz(TM) universe onscreen. Her outspoken belief in following your dreams and her own accomplishments, energy and style make her a role model for Bratz(TM) fans.”
“I am extremely excited about working on this film, which incorporates and celebrates so many of my passions, from music, dance and choreography to fashion and design,” Abdul confirms. “As a brand, Bratz(TM) encourages young girls to follow their dreams and express themselves. This authentic and organic philosophy has always been an important part of my life and my work and I will always continue to nurture new talent while keeping their dreams alive. As far as I’m concerned, it’s a message that can’t be repeated enough.”
