Bad news for independent studio Imagi Animation, which is closing its doors due to financial problems. Imagi began in 2000, and produced both “TMNT” in 2007 and “Astro Boy” last year. “Astro Boy” was a bit of a flop at the box office which, apparently, led to the end of the studio.
Imagi was in the process of working on three new films, including “Gatchaman”, which was due to be released next year. The studio, which recently layed-off 300 employees, says they will continue to work on these films, using cheaper production methods. Hard to believe that will work.
I enjoyed the look of both “TMNT” and “Astro Boy”, though the stories were not great and they were not promoted well. It’s too bad when an animated studio has to shut-down.
Farewell, Imagi!