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Threshold Entertainment
Threshold Entertainment
Threshold Entertainment
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Threshold Entertainment Group, also known as Threshold Entertainment, and Threshold Digital Research Labs is an American intellectual property company.[1] Its animation subsidiary, Threshold Animation Studios, produces films.[2] Larry Kasanoff is the company's chief executive officer (CEO) after previously serving as president for Lightstorm Entertainment, a company he co-founded with entrepreneur and filmmaker James Cameron.[3]

Key Information

Threshold Animation Studios

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Threshold Animation Studios has produced several CGI projects:

Theme park films

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Television specials

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Films

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Unreleased Films

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  • Arcade - An animated film about video game characters. A similar film Wreck-It Ralph would be made by Disney in 2012.
  • Mascots - An animated film about sports mascot characters.
  • Duke Nukem - A live action film based on the video game character of the same name.
  • Ninja Scroll - A live action film adaptation of the 1993 anime of the same name.[7]
  • Sunday Comics Capers - An animated film about comic strip characters.

Contributions to other media

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References

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Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Threshold Entertainment

View on Grokipedia
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Threshold Entertainment is an American entertainment headquartered in , specializing in films, animated movies, television series, and location-based entertainment (LBE), often centered on major global brands such as Mortal Kombat, , , , , and Star Wars. Founded by producer in the early 1990s following his tenure as co-founder and president of , Threshold has been led by Kasanoff as Chairman and CEO, leveraging his extensive experience in Hollywood to develop intellectual properties and multimedia franchises. The company emerged during a period of innovation in and brand adaptations, building on Kasanoff's prior successes in supervising major blockbusters. Threshold is best known for its work on the Mortal Kombat franchise, producing the original 1995 film—the first video game adaptation to achieve commercial success—along with its 1997 sequel Mortal Kombat: Annihilation, a live-action TV series, an animated series, and related soundtracks that earned platinum certifications. In animation, Threshold Animation Studios, its subsidiary, has created direct-to-video features like Bionicle: The Legend Reborn (2009), Lego: The Adventures of Clutch Powers (2010), and the CGI film Bobbleheads: The Movie (2020), distributed by Universal Pictures and featuring voice talent such as Cher. Additionally, the company has pioneered LBE experiences, including theme park rides and immersive attractions based on brands like Star Trek: The Borg Invasion, which introduced groundbreaking 3D Steadicam technology. Under Kasanoff's leadership, Threshold has contributed to over 250 feature films across its team's careers, including executive production on (1994) and involvement in the marketing and merchandising of (1991), while earning nearly 100 Gold and Platinum records for soundtracks tied to projects like ' "." More recently, the company has focused on rebooting franchises and developing new IP, such as the reboot and initiatives in , positioning itself as a key player in cross-media entertainment.

History

Founding and early years

Threshold Entertainment was founded in 1993 by in . The company was established as an intellectual property developer, with Kasanoff serving as its chairman and from inception. Prior to launching Threshold, Kasanoff had co-founded in 1990 alongside and served as its president until 1991. In that role, he supervised production, marketing, publicity, and merchandising for major films including Terminator 2: Judgment Day and True Lies. These successes provided Kasanoff with substantial industry experience and resources, enabling him to fund Threshold's early operations through personal investments derived from his prior achievements. The company's initial mission centered on developing intellectual properties across film, television, and emerging media formats. Threshold's early efforts particularly emphasized live-action adaptations of popular video games and , aiming to bridge interactive entertainment with traditional cinematic storytelling. Headquartered in Santa Monica, the studio quickly positioned itself in this niche by entering on the 1995 Mortal Kombat , which became a pivotal entry into the video game-to-film production space.

Expansion and key milestones

In the mid-1990s, Threshold Entertainment expanded its portfolio by producing high-profile adaptations of popular franchises, most notably the 1995 live-action film , directed by , which became a box office success and established the company as a leader in video game-to-film transitions. This was followed by the 1997 sequel , further solidifying Threshold's expertise in action-oriented genre films based on established intellectual properties. Concurrently, the company launched Threshold Animation Studios as a dedicated CGI animation subsidiary to develop animated projects, marking a strategic diversification into digital animation for both film and related media. The late 1990s saw Threshold venture into theme park and location-based entertainment (LBE), beginning with involvement in the production of visual effects and 3D film for Star Trek: The Experience in 1998, a multi-sensory 4D attraction at the Las Vegas Hilton that immersed visitors in the Star Trek universe through interactive rides and exhibits, running for nearly a decade. This milestone highlighted Threshold's innovative use of emerging technologies like 3D Steadicam and multi-plane immersion, paving the way for partnerships with major theme park operators, including Universal's Islands of Adventure for projects like Mission: SPAMM and attractions at Disneyland and Magic Kingdom. By the early 2000s, Threshold shifted further toward animated features, exemplified by the 1999 science-fantasy film Beowulf, a loose adaptation of the epic poem starring Christopher Lambert, which showcased the company's growing capabilities in blending live-action with CGI elements. Throughout the 2000s, Threshold continued to grow by acquiring and licensing intellectual properties across media, including the 2002 acquisition of rights to the Japanese anime from studio, positioning it as the foundation for a new franchise with plans for live-action and animated expansions. This move exemplified Threshold's IP licensing model, which leveraged global brands to create cross-platform content in film, animation, and LBE, generating revenue through adaptations and merchandise. Under Lawrence Kasanoff's oversight, the company's senior management had contributed to over 250 films and attractions by the mid-2000s, encompassing major hits like and pioneering LBE experiences that attracted millions of visitors worldwide.

Recent developments and challenges

In the , Threshold Entertainment faced significant hurdles in its endeavors, exemplified by the protracted production of Foodfight!, which began development in the late but encountered extensive delays due to funding issues and technical challenges, ultimately releasing in after over a decade in limbo. The project, intended as a adventure featuring anthropomorphic brand mascots, ballooned to an estimated $45 million budget amid disputes with investors who invoked clauses to seize control when returns failed to materialize, highlighting broader woes in financing during the era. These setbacks underscored Threshold's struggles with resource-intensive CGI projects in a market dominated by major studios. Transitioning into the 2020s, Threshold contributed to notable releases, including the CGI-animated Bobbleheads: The Movie in 2020, a family comedy distributed by Universal 1440 Entertainment that centered on toy characters defending their home from intruders. The company also held executive production credits on the 2021 Mortal Kombat reboot, directed by and primarily produced by , which grossed over $84 million worldwide and revived the franchise's live-action legacy. In 2022, Threshold entered a with Universal Media Group to collaborate on , animation, and LBE projects based on global brands. These efforts demonstrated Threshold's pivot toward branded IP adaptations amid a shifting landscape favoring reboots and direct-to-video formats. In 2023, Threshold formed a key partnership with GFM Animation and to co-produce the animated feature in the Jungle, inspired by Simon Cowell's talent show and featuring jungle-set musical competitions among animal characters; pre-production commenced that year, with animation production slated to begin in 2024 and a targeted release in 2026. In 2024, under Threshold Entertainment, Kasanoff established Studios in partnership with producer Daniel Brea to develop luxury immersive experiences. This collaboration aimed to leverage global IP appeal in the streaming era, blending music and adventure elements to attract family audiences. As of 2024 and into 2025, Threshold continued development on a live-action adaptation of the Tetris, announced in partnership with over a decade prior, though progress remained in early stages without confirmed production timelines. The company has emphasized revivals in location-based entertainment (LBE), focusing on immersive experiences tied to major brands to capitalize on post-COVID recovery in out-of-home attractions, where the global LBE market expanded at a exceeding 20% since 2021. No major headquarters relocations or expansions were reported during this period, with operations centered in . Broader industry transformations have posed ongoing challenges for Threshold, including the dominance of streaming platforms that disrupted traditional theatrical models and intensified competition in IP licensing, where independent producers like Threshold must navigate higher costs and delays in animation pipelines. Recovery from pandemic-induced production halts has further strained resources, prompting a strategic emphasis on collaborative ventures and evergreen franchises to sustain viability through 2025.

Key personnel

Lawrence Kasanoff

, born on June 1, 1959, in , , began his career in the entertainment industry with a focus on music production. He produced the soundtrack for the 1987 film , which became the highest-selling multi-artist soundtrack in history and earned platinum certification. Early in his career, Kasanoff also worked on music videos for artists including , , and , and he executive produced the music video for ' "," tied to the soundtrack, contributing to over 100 gold and platinum records collectively in his music endeavors. In 1990, he co-founded with , serving as president and overseeing production, marketing, publicity, and merchandising for major projects like , a four-time Academy Award winner. In 1993, Kasanoff founded Threshold Entertainment and has served as its chairman and CEO since inception, serving as producer or executive on numerous feature films. Prior to Threshold, his productions included films with director Kathryn Bigelow such as Blue Steel (1990) and Strange Days (1995). At Threshold, Kasanoff directed the 2012 animated film Foodfight!, which featured voice talents like and . He has been instrumental in expanding intellectual properties across multiple platforms, including from films to location-based entertainment (LBE), with personal involvement in adaptations like the series, where he produced two number-one box office films, a television series, an , platinum-selling soundtracks, direct-to-DVD releases, and a live tour. Kasanoff's innovations in production during the 1990s earned industry recognition, particularly for pioneering technological advancements in entertainment through projects like Terminator 2 and True Lies (1994), the latter of which he executive produced. His soundtrack work, including platinum certifications for Mortal Kombat albums, further solidified his accolades in music and film crossover. As of 2025, Kasanoff remains active as Threshold's CEO, focusing on animated projects through Threshold Animation Studio and LBE initiatives; he also leads The Cartoon Coalition, a new venture for animated content development.

Other executives and collaborators

Jimmy Ienner serves as Partner and Senior Advisor at Threshold Entertainment, bringing extensive experience in music production and film soundtracks to the company. With credits including over 85 gold and platinum albums, multiple Grammys, and two Oscars for projects like Dirty Dancing and Pink Floyd: The Wall, Ienner has managed music collaborations for Threshold's productions, such as the animated feature X Factor in the Jungle. In the animation division, established post-1996 as Threshold Animation Studios, key figures have included directors like Mark Baldo, who helmed the 2009 film Bionicle: The Legend Reborn, contributing to the studio's focus on CGI-animated content based on toy brands. Similarly, Howard E. Baker directed : The Adventures of Clutch Powers in 2010, overseeing the integration of Lego's into feature-length animation. These roles supported Threshold's expansion into family-oriented animated films. For live-action projects, collaborators such as director Graham Baker shaped early efforts, directing the 1999 fantasy film and incorporating practical effects and stunts aligned with Threshold's action-oriented style. Producers like , who co-produced the 1995 alongside Threshold's team, played pivotal roles in adapting video game properties to cinema, emphasizing high-energy sequences. External partnerships have been instrumental in Threshold's diversification. Long-term distribution deals with Universal Studios Home Entertainment, starting in 2007, enabled releases like Bionicle: The Legend Reborn and Clutch Powers, bolstering the animation arm's output. Collaborations with for the aforementioned Bionicle and Clutch Powers films extended Threshold's reach into licensed merchandise-driven media. More recently, a 2023 co-production agreement with , led by , for the animated in the Jungle (slated for 2026), highlights ongoing ties to music and talent competition brands. Historical connections to , through Kasanoff's co-founding of , influenced Threshold's early VFX and location-based entertainment (LBE) initiatives, including theme park attractions like those at Universal's Islands of Adventure. These alliances facilitated Threshold's shift toward integrated media ecosystems, encompassing animation, films, and immersive experiences.

Productions

Live-action films

Threshold Entertainment's entry into live-action filmmaking began in the mid-1990s, leveraging founder Lawrence Kasanoff's prior experience in and production to adapt popular intellectual properties, particularly video games, into feature films with an emphasis on action sequences and practical effects. The company's productions during this era prioritized high-energy choreography and fantastical elements, though they faced challenges in translating interactive into narrative-driven cinema, such as maintaining the spectacle of one-on-one combat without relying heavily on digital enhancements. Their output established Threshold as a pioneer in the nascent adaptation genre, despite mixed critical fortunes. The company's breakthrough came with (1995), directed by and produced by Threshold as its first major feature. Adapted from the fighting series, the film followed a group of Earthrealm warriors, including (played by ), competing in an interdimensional against the sorcerer to prevent invasion by the evil emperor . With a of approximately $18 million, it emphasized elaborate fight by consulting experts to replicate the game's signature fatalities and special moves in live-action, though toned down for a PG-13 rating to broaden appeal. The casting of Shou, a action veteran, brought authenticity to the role, while supporting performers like as added humor to balance the intense battles. Released by , it grossed $122 million worldwide, marking the first profitable movie adaptation and achieving cult status for its faithful recreation of the game's lore and structure, despite mixed reviews that praised the visuals but critiqued the thin plot. This success helped launch the film subgenre, influencing later entries like (2002). The , Mortal Kombat: Annihilation (1997), directed by , continued the story immediately after the first film's events, with (Brian Thompson) launching an invasion of Earth. Threshold retained key cast members, including as and as , while introducing new characters like Jax (Bridgette Wilson-Sampras) to expand the ensemble. Produced on a $30 million budget—higher than its predecessor to accommodate more elaborate sets and effects—the film struggled with adaptation challenges, including rushed scripting and overreliance on CGI for elements, which critics found unconvincing. It earned $51 million worldwide, underperforming commercially amid overwhelmingly negative reception, with a 4% approval rating on for its incoherent plot, wooden acting, and chaotic action sequences that failed to capture the original's focused energy. The film's poor showing stalled the franchise for years, highlighting the risks of sequel escalation without narrative depth. Threshold's live-action output also included (1999), a loose sci-fi reinterpretation of the epic poem, directed by Graham Baker and starring as the titular hero battling the monster (voiced by ) in a dystopian future outpost. Produced on an estimated $20 million budget (though actual costs were reportedly lower at around $3.5 million due to cost-cutting), the film featured practical creature effects and Lambert's swordplay, but adaptation hurdles arose from blending medieval myth with post-apocalyptic aesthetics, resulting in tonal inconsistencies. Released directly to video in the U.S. by , it had limited theatrical runs abroad, grossing under $1 million globally and receiving scathing reviews—0% on —for its weak script, corny dialogue, and subpar effects that undermined the source material's heroism. Despite its failures, it represented Threshold's attempt to diversify beyond video games into mythological action. Earlier, Threshold's principals contributed to (1994), an action-comedy directed by and starring , where Kasanoff served as executive producer during the company's formative phase. This involvement, predating full Threshold branding, bridged Kasanoff's visual effects background—handling key sequences like the harrier jet stunts—with the company's emerging focus on spectacle-driven films, grossing $378 million worldwide on a $100 million . In 2014, Threshold announced plans for a live-action Tetris adaptation as an $80 million sci-fi thriller trilogy based on the iconic puzzle game, aiming to reimagine its mechanics in a narrative of global intrigue and high-stakes action; however, the development status is unknown after 2016.

Animated films

Threshold Entertainment's animation efforts were primarily handled through its subsidiary, Threshold Animation Studios, which specialized in CGI productions tied to established brand intellectual properties. Established in the early 2000s, the studio focused on direct-to-video and limited theatrical releases, leveraging digital animation techniques to adapt toy lines into feature-length stories. This approach allowed for cost-effective storytelling within branded universes, marking an early foray into licensed CGI animation for global franchises. One of the studio's notable projects was (2009), a animated that rebooted the Lego franchise. Directed by Mark Baldo and produced in collaboration with Tinseltown Toons, the film follows the spirit of the hero Mata Nui as he awakens in a barren wasteland and unites villages against a tyrannical ruler. Featuring voice talents such as as Mata Nui and Paul Dobson as the villain Raanu, it was distributed by Universal Studios Home Entertainment and released on September 15, 2009. The production emphasized detailed CGI modeling of the characters' mechanical designs, appealing to the franchise's existing fanbase through action-oriented narratives and lore expansion, though it received mixed reviews for its pacing and quality. In 2010, Threshold Animation Studios released Lego: The Adventures of Clutch Powers, another feature distributed by . This film introduced Clutch Powers, portrayed as the premier explorer, who assembles a team to combat threats across various Lego realms, including a led by Mallock the Malign. Voiced by actors like Greg Westhoff as Clutch and as Bernie the Apprentice, the movie highlighted the interconnected nature of Lego themes, from medieval kingdoms to . It garnered positive reception among younger audiences and Lego enthusiasts for its playful humor and creative set pieces, achieving a 66% audience approval rating on based on family-friendly appeal and tie-in promotion. The project's success as a underscored Threshold's capability in producing engaging, low-stakes animated content for merchandise-driven IPs. Threshold's most infamous animated endeavor was Foodfight! (2012), directed by Threshold founder , who also co-wrote the screenplay with Brent . Conceived in 2000 as an original CGI comedy set in a where brand mascots come to life, the film faced a protracted development spanning over a decade, plagued by production delays, asset theft in 2002, and multiple studio changes. With a reported budget escalating to between $45 million and $65 million—funded partly through deals with food manufacturers—the movie featured voices including as Dex, the sunflower seed protagonist, and as his love interest Sunshine. Ultimately released in a limited capacity on November 23, 2012, it grossed approximately $120,000 at the , effectively zero in wide terms due to its troubled rollout and poor critical reception. Noted for its bizarre plot involving a war against generic brands and infamous for subpar resembling early 2000s CGI, Foodfight! became a symbol of production mismanagement in . Threshold Animation Studios also produced Bobbleheads: The Movie (2020), a CGI animated comedy directed by and distributed by . The film follows a group of toys, including a baseball player voiced by and a pop diva voiced by (as herself), who must defend their home from intruders while their owners are away. Featuring voices such as and , it emphasized humorous adventures and product tie-ins with collectibles. Released on December 8, 2020, the movie received mixed reviews, with a 25% Tomatometer score on for its simplistic plot and , though it appealed to young children. Beyond these features, Threshold Animation Studios contributed to shorter animated outputs, including the series of specials from 2010 to 2014. These CGI episodes, such as Rise of the Rookies (2010) and Breakout (2012), expanded the Hero Factory toy line with stories of rookie heroes training under veteran Preston Stormer, voiced by John Schneider. Produced in partnership with , the specials utilized modular character designs and fast-paced action sequences, fostering fan engagement through online promotions and merchandise synergy while demonstrating Threshold's expertise in scalable digital animation for episodic brand content.

Theme park attractions and location-based entertainment

Threshold Entertainment has been instrumental in developing immersive location-based entertainment (LBE) experiences, particularly through multi-sensory 4D attractions that integrate motion, scents, water sprays, and other effects to enhance audience engagement with licensed intellectual properties. One of its pioneering projects was : The Borg Invasion 4D, a multi-plane 3D stereoscopic experience featuring four surrounding screens, which debuted in 1998 at the Las Vegas Hilton as part of : The Experience. This attraction, co-developed in partnership with , incorporated innovative technologies such as the first 3D Steadicam shot and ran for nine years, later expanding to installations in and , marking an early milestone in branded . Similarly, Threshold contributed to – Les Effets Spéciaux, a 3D special effects show based on the 1998 film, which opened in 2002 at in and utilized explosive fire effects, water, and motion to simulate asteroid impact scenarios. The company's LBE portfolio emphasizes 4D effects, including motion seats that vibrate and tilt in sync with on-screen action, scents like smoke or ozone, and water mists to heighten realism, often in collaboration with major studios for IP licensing. Partnerships with Paramount enabled Star Trek integrations, while ties to Universal Studios facilitated projects like the revitalization of , a motion-based at Universal's Islands of Adventure in Orlando, featuring high-definition 3D , live-action elements, and simulated free-falls up to 400 feet. Threshold also produced Marvel Super Hero 4D, a multi-sensory experience with motion platforms and environmental effects, initially at Madame Tussauds and later at sites including Madame Tussauds New York and Trans Studio in . In the realm of DC Comics properties, Threshold developed Justice League: Alien Invasion 3D, an interactive theme park ride where guests join superheroes like , and in a battle against alien invaders, using 3D projection and participatory elements; this attraction launched around 2012 at in and remains operational as of 2025. These Marvel and DC tie-ins underscore Threshold's role in adapting IPs for physical installations, blending narrative storytelling with audience interaction. Threshold's LBE efforts have generated revenue through global installations across theme parks and entertainment venues, contributing to the broader immersive sector's growth, though specific figures for the company are not publicly detailed; projects like these have been installed in over a dozen international locations, from Disney and Universal resorts to Merlin Entertainment sites. Post-2010s, the company evolved toward advanced immersive formats, including a 2013 partnership with Holovis International to create dome-based projection technologies for dark rides, 4D theaters, and immersive tunnels, exemplified by Ocean Quest: The Immersive Adventure, a wraparound dome show debuting in China in 2015 that combined high-resolution animation with multi-sensory effects. This collaboration highlighted Threshold's innovations in branded immersive entertainment, pioneering scalable systems for VR/AR-adjacent experiences that extend beyond traditional 4D to fully enclosed, 360-degree environments.

Television and other media

Television specials

Threshold Entertainment, through its animation division Threshold Animation Studios, produced several standalone television specials and pilots primarily in the and , focusing on animated formats that ranged from 20 to 45 minutes in length. These projects often served as promotional tie-ins to existing intellectual properties, blending , and origin to expand franchise universes. Distribution typically occurred via cable networks like and , with many also released on DVD for home viewing to maximize reach among young audiences. One of the company's earliest efforts was (1995), a 39-minute animated that introduced key characters and lore from the video game series ahead of the live-action film adaptation. Produced as a release by Threshold Entertainment in collaboration with Turner Home Entertainment, it emphasized martial arts battles and fantastical elements to build hype for the cinematic universe. Similarly, The Afterlife (2003), a 22-minute animated pilot developed for , explored humorous scenarios in a bureaucratic afterlife setting, showcasing Threshold's early experimentation with digital animation for network television. In the and , Threshold shifted toward Lego-branded content, creating specials that tied into popular toy lines and promoted imaginative play. (2010), a 22-minute adventure short aired on , followed explorers uncovering underwater mysteries, highlighting themes of discovery and teamwork in a CGI style. This was followed by (2012), another 22-minute special that parodied the Star Wars saga with Lego minifigures, focusing on comedic missions involving and . For the Hero Factory franchise, (2010), an 88-minute television movie that premiered on as a pilot, depicted rookie heroes training against villains, serving as an that launched the animated series and emphasized heroic assembly-line construction metaphors. specials, such as (2003) and (2009), were produced as 60- to 75-minute events with TV airings, centering on epic quests for ancient artifacts and unity among biomechanical warriors. These specials played a key role in fan engagement for Threshold's partner franchises, particularly properties, by delivering accessible, high-energy content that encouraged toy purchases and extended narrative worlds beyond films and games. For instance, the and specials received praise for their lighthearted humor and visual appeal, appealing to children while reinforcing through familiar characters in new scenarios. Overall, Threshold's television output helped bridge promotional with broader media ecosystems, contributing to the sustained popularity of action-oriented IPs like and Hero Factory during their peak years from 2003 to 2014.

Contributions to series and video games

Threshold Entertainment has made notable contributions to animated television series adapted from video game and toy franchises, particularly through its animation division, Threshold Animation Studios. One of its earliest forays into serialized content was the production of Mortal Kombat: Defenders of the Realm, a 1996 animated series based on the iconic fighting video game franchise developed by Midway Games. Co-produced with Film Roman Productions and New Line Television, the 13-episode series aired on the USA Network and expanded the game's lore by depicting Earthrealm warriors defending against interdimensional threats, introducing new characters like Quan Chi while staying true to the source material's martial arts and fantasy elements. This project exemplified Threshold's role in bridging video game IPs to episodic television formats, leveraging licensing agreements established in 1993 with Midway to create multimedia spin-offs. In the realm of toy-based media, Threshold produced the Hero Factory animated television series, which ran from 2010 to 2014 and consisted of multiple mini-series and specials broadcast on . Developed in partnership with , the show followed a team of customizable robotic heroes combating galactic villains, directly tying into Lego's Hero Factory construction toy line launched in 2010. Threshold handled the CGI animation and story development for key installments, such as Rise of the Rookies (2010), Breakout (2012), and Brain Attack (2013), which served as promotional vehicles to boost toy sales while delivering action-oriented narratives aimed at young audiences. These efforts helped expand Lego's intellectual property into ongoing episodic content, fostering cross-media synergy between physical toys and animated adventures. Threshold's involvement in video game tie-ins extends beyond series production to licensing and co-production credits that facilitated adaptations and promotional content. For the franchise, the company managed extensive IP rights, producing promotional materials that integrated with game releases to enhance player immersion and market the series' cinematic universe. Additionally, Threshold pursued original IP development inspired by gaming, including early concepts for interactive arcade-style projects, though many remained unreleased due to shifting industry priorities. These initiatives underscored partnerships with game publishers like Midway and networks like , enabling the transformation of static game narratives into dynamic, serialized media experiences. The impact of Threshold's contributions lies in their facilitation of IP expansion into episodic formats, particularly for franchises originating in video games and toys. By co-producing series like Mortal Kombat: Defenders of the Realm and Hero Factory, the company helped pioneer video game-to-television crossovers in the 1990s and sustained Lego-themed animated content into the 2010s, influencing subsequent adaptations in streaming eras. Recent ventures, such as Threshold Animation Studios' involvement in global animation coalitions announced in 2025, suggest ongoing potential in animation production.

Unreleased and upcoming projects

Abandoned or shelved projects

Threshold Entertainment has pursued numerous film and animation projects that ultimately failed to materialize, contributing to a reputation for development challenges in the industry. Among the key shelved initiatives was a live-action of the video game , announced in early 2001 when Threshold sold the rights to for development. The project stalled shortly after, primarily due to ongoing rights complications and shifts in studio priorities, with the property later moving to other producers without Threshold's involvement. Similarly, plans for an animated feature titled Arcade, centered on anthropomorphic video game characters, were conceptualized in the early but halted before advanced significantly, reflecting broader difficulties in securing funding for original animation concepts at the time. Another prominent abandoned effort involved a live-action remake of the 1993 anime Ninja Scroll, for which Threshold acquired all remake rights in March 2002 from Japanese studio Madhouse, envisioning a $60 million production. The project did not materialize. Threshold also explored Mascots, an undeveloped animated film featuring sports mascot characters in comedic scenarios, which remained in early conceptual stages without progressing to animation due to insufficient investor interest. Additionally, Sunday Comics Capers, a proposed animated adaptation blending various comic strip characters, saw trademark filing in 2007 but did not advance beyond early development. Post-release financial fallout from Threshold's 2012 animated film Foodfight!, which suffered production setbacks including hard drive theft and a rushed completion by insurers after a loan default, impacted future animation efforts. Common reasons for these shelvings included budget overruns, as seen in the extended production woes of Foodfight!, legal disputes over rights, and market shifts such as fatigue toward adaptations in the following mixed results for similar films. This legacy of abandoned works underscored Threshold's challenges in navigating Hollywood's competitive landscape, prompting a focus on established franchises like those in theme park attractions.

Projects in development

Threshold Entertainment maintains an active pipeline of projects emphasizing family-friendly and immersive location-based (LBE), with a strategic pivot toward post-pandemic markets that prioritize accessible, joyful experiences for global audiences. As of November 2025, the company is advancing several key initiatives through partnerships and internal development, including animated features and potential IP expansions. A prominent upcoming film is the animated feature X Factor in the Jungle, a co-production with GFM Animation and Simon Cowell's . Inspired by the talent competition format, the story follows animal contestants in a singing adventure, blending , , and themes for young viewers. Greenlit in 2023 and targeted for a 2026 theatrical release, the project is in development, with story and rights secured as of mid-2024. Another long-in-development project is the live-action adaptation of , envisioned as an epic sci-fi thriller trilogy co-produced with China's Sun Seven Stars Media Group under the Threshold Global Studios banner. Initially announced in 2016 with a planned $80 million budget for the first installment, the film is in the scripting phase, with no confirmed release date as of 2025; it aims to explore high-stakes global intrigue tied to the iconic puzzle game's origins and cultural impact. In October 2025, Threshold Animation Studio CEO Larry Kasanoff launched The Cartoon Coalition, a privately funded venture assembling industry veterans to produce animated movies, TV series, and theme park attractions. Debuting at the with three original feature scripts—"World's Top Monster," "Level Up," and "Krazed for Karaoke"—the initiative focuses on innovative, AI-assisted workflows to accelerate family-oriented content creation. This aligns with Threshold's emphasis on scalable and LBE, including potential expansions to DC Justice League interactive experiences, building on prior 3D successes. Funding for these comes via strategic partnerships like the GFM collaboration, with timelines prioritizing 2026 releases amid a broader industry recovery.

References

  1. https://www.thresholdentertainment.com/about
  2. https://www.linkedin.com/company/threshold-entertainment
  3. https://www.thresholdentertainment.com/larry-kasanoff
  4. https://www.larrykasanoff.com/
  5. https://www.thresholdentertainment.com/mortal-kombat
  6. https://www.imdb.com/company/co0070928/
  7. https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0440415/
  8. https://www.leadingauthorities.com/speakers/larry-kasanoff
  9. https://www.theverge.com/2014/9/30/6872435/tetris-the-movie-is-really-real-from-mortal-kombat-film-studio
  10. https://www.cbr.com/tetris-to-become-live-action-film-if-all-the-pieces-fall-into-place/
  11. https://www.thresholdentertainment.com/star-trek
  12. https://www.thresholdentertainment.com/copy-of-tech-innovations
  13. https://variety.com/1999/film/reviews/beowulf-1200458248/
  14. https://www.awn.com/news/threshold-taps-anime-film-ninja-scroll-new-live-action-feature
  15. https://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/11/movies/the-rise-and-fall-of-the-computer-animated-foodfight.html
  16. https://www.cartoonbrew.com/feature-film/why-foodfight-cost-45-million-and-was-still-unwatchable-87138.html
  17. https://www.thresholdentertainment.com/bobbleheads-the-movie
  18. https://www.otcmarkets.com/stock/UMGP/news/Universal-Media-Group-Inc-OTC-PINK-UMGP-Announces-Partnership-Agreement-with-Threshold-Entertainment?id=375209
  19. https://variety.com/2023/film/news/x-factor-in-the-jungle-gfm-animation-larry-kasanoff-threshold-simon-cowell-syco-1235615772/
  20. https://hollywoodtimesmag.com/lawrence-larry-kasanoff-redefines-luxury-experiences-with-supergiant-studios/
  21. https://www.thresholdentertainment.com/tetris
  22. https://www.linkedin.com/in/larry-kasanoff-8868391ba
  23. https://www.animationmagazine.net/2025/07/californias-animation-industry-is-in-crisis-heres-how-to-save-it/
  24. https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/business-news/california-animation-work-suffering-outsourcing-concerns-1236206301/
  25. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0249516/
  26. https://deadline.com/2025/10/larry-kasanoff-cartoon-coalition-industry-veterans-1236601531/
  27. https://www.thresholdentertainment.com/jimmy-ienner
  28. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1473345/
  29. https://variety.com/2007/digital/features/kasanoff-partners-for-dvd-business-1117970154/
  30. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0120604/
  31. https://variety.com/1997/film/news/beowulf-filming-begins-111660778/
  32. https://www.the-numbers.com/movie/Mortal-Kombat
  33. https://filmschoolrejects.com/what-critics-said-about-mortal-kombat-1995/
  34. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0113855/
  35. https://movieweb.com/mortal-kombat-first-successful-video-game-movie/
  36. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0119707/
  37. https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/mortal_kombat_annihilation
  38. https://www.the-numbers.com/movie/Mortal-Kombat-Annihilation
  39. https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/1099999-beowulf
  40. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0111503/
  41. https://deadline.com/2016/05/tetris-the-movie-bruno-wu-larry-kasanoff-threshold-global-china-cannes-1201758000/
  42. https://www.thresholdentertainment.com/bionicle
  43. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1587414/
  44. https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/lego_the_adventures_of_clutch_powers
  45. https://www.thresholdentertainment.com/lego-clutch-powers
  46. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt13292206/
  47. https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/bobbleheads_the_movie
  48. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1728863/
  49. https://www.thresholdentertainment.com/lego-hero-factory
  50. https://www.thresholdentertainment.com/spider-man
  51. https://www.thresholdentertainment.com/justice-league
  52. https://blooloop.com/theme-park/news/holovis-and-threshold-animation-studios-to-deliver-new-immersive-experience-technology/
  53. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0363828/
  54. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2402600/
  55. https://mortalkombat.fandom.com/wiki/Mortal_Kombat:_The_Journey_Begins
  56. https://www.awn.com/news/threshold-digital-gets-afterlife-fox
  57. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1640145/
  58. https://www.thresholdentertainment.com/lego-star-wars
  59. https://www.moviemeter.com/movies/animation/lego-hero-factory-rise-of-the-rookies
  60. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt2114058/
  61. https://www.commonsensemedia.org/movie-reviews/lego-star-wars-the-empire-strikes-out
  62. https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0122355/
  63. https://www.animationmagazine.net/2025/10/mortal-kombat-producer-larry-kasanoff-leads-new-global-venture-the-cartoon-coalition/
  64. https://www.ign.com/articles/2001/03/20/duke-at-the-movies
  65. https://variety.com/2002/film/markets-festivals/ninja-saga-on-threshold-1117863870/
  66. https://www.trademarkia.com/sunday-comics-caper-77183433
  67. https://www.movieinsider.com/m23080/x-factor-in-the-jungle
  68. https://www.animationmagazine.net/2023/05/gfm-threshold-and-simon-cowell-toon-up-x-factor-in-the-jungle/
  69. https://www.c21media.net/news/animation-execs-launch-the-cartoon-coalition-integrating-ai-into-production-process/
  70. https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2022/10/06/2529838/0/en/Universal-Media-Group-Inc-OTC-PINK-UMGP-Announces-Partnership-Agreement-with-Threshold-Entertainment.html
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