California’s STX Entertainment and Alibaba Pictures in China are partnering to co-produce and co-finance content inspired by UglyDolls in a play to expand the franchise globally. Their agreement covers the upcoming animated feature film UglyDolls, an animated series in development with Hulu, digital and print publishing, mobile and educational games, soundtrack and music, and licensing programs covering toys, dolls, collectibles and arts & crafts.

STXfilms’ Uglydolls pic is set to premiere in May. Directed by Kelly Asbury (Frozen, Beauty and the Beast), it features Kelly Clarkson, Nick Jonas, Blake Shelton, Janelle Monáe, Wanda Sykes and Pitbull.

Last year, US streamer Hulu signed a deal with STX Entertainment to develop and produce a 26-episode animated series based on the movie, and Hulu snapped up exclusive SVOD rights in the US to the film following its theatrical run.

STX also recently tapped Hasbro to serve as the IP’s global master toy partner. And licensing agency White Space Entertainment has inked a number of new deals for the brand in apparel, accessories, stationery and activity kits.