Henson greenlights Kermit DTV

Everyone’s favorite amphibian is getting his own biopic. The Jim Henson Company has partnered with Columbia TriStar Home Entertainment to produce a full-length direct-to-video feature based on Kermit the Frog’s early life. Titled Kermit’s Swamp Years, the live-action film will focus on the adventures of a tween-age Kermit and his pals Goggles and Croker as they prepare to leave the swamp for the big city.

In support of the Kermit prequel, which Columbia will release on VHS and DVD next summer, Henson is mounting a major promotional program that will include tie-ins with packaged goods companies and a QSR partner, says Michael Polis, senior VP of worldwide marketing at The Jim Henson Company and executive producer on the film. As for merchandising, Polis says Henson may create a few SKUs using existing licensees, but he doesn’t envision developing a large merch program. Additionally, Polis says Henson plans to air the movie on U.S. TV, but at press time, the company had yet to solidify a broadcast deal.

More genius baby vids on order

Atlanta-based kids educational vidco Small Fry Productions has formed The Brainy Baby Company, a new division that will focus on creating DVDs for the infant demo. Officially launching next month, Brainy Baby will bow with 11 titles covering various subjects like colors, ABCs and animals. Set to classical music, all of the titles are designed to help kids learn and develop during those crucial first few years. The Brainy Baby titles will retail for US$15.95 each and will also come with a host of DVD goodies such as coloring book printouts, an interactive storybook and a parenting guide.