Elf Labs: Revolutionizing Fairytales with Transmedia Storytelling
Elf Labs is emerging as a cutting-edge transmedia company, leveraging its extensive portfolio of trademarked fairytale characters reimagined in zombie form. Headquartered in Los Angeles, the company boasts an Emmy-winning production team and a seasoned branding and licensing division, enhanced by AI and compression technology. Originally founded by Billy Phillips 15 years ago as Toon Studio, it is now guided by his son, CEO David Phillips.
Transforming the Media Landscape
Elf Labs aims to redefine the media industry by introducing immersive storytelling and innovative IP distribution. Starting with zombie adaptations of beloved characters, Elf Labs is expanding its vision to include robot versions as well. In an interview with GamesBeat, David Phillips highlighted the initiative’s goal: “We want to create a 360-degree transmedia approach across all media, including games, online worlds, and mixed reality."
The company is developing engaging products, such as a digital 3D coloring book featuring Rapunzel, as well as immersive games that enhance user experience. Phillips emphasizes, “Our storylines are intended to promote positivity and empowerment, creating a meaningful connection with our audience.”
Building a Robust IP Portfolio
Elf Labs has impressively secured over 400 copyrights and 140 trademarks, showcasing reimagined versions of iconic characters like Snow White, Little Mermaid, and Peter Pan. The company has generated approximately $15 million in royalty revenue and successfully sold over 100,000 copies of the Once Upon a Zombie book series. The efficient team comprises just 10 members, demonstrating significant output despite its size.
Strategic Intellectual Property Management
Elf Labs’ IP strategy facilitates monetization through global consumer product licensing, encompassing books, apparel, and other goods. The acquisition of the Junior Elf book catalog, featuring over 200 classic titles, further solidified its foothold in the market. Phillips reassures that the company maintains clean ownership of its IP, ensuring strong relationships within the creative community.
The platform employs a multi-patented system designed to cultivate mega IP franchises, merging iconic characters with innovative storytelling and revolutionary technology. “We’re set to reimagine entertainment,” states Phillips, highlighting the potential of their vast portfolio.
A Deliberate Build-Up
After years in stealth mode, Phillips focused on constructing a valuable IP portfolio, navigating the legal intricacies of trademark applications. Under his leadership for the past year, the company has amassed additional trademarks, equipping Elf Labs to monetize its creations effectively.
“Creative ideas drive our decisions,” Phillips explains. “We're not just building characters; we’re creating brands with the intent to monetize and protect them.”
Innovative Storytelling in Action
Elf Labs is currently launching its Robo Stars IP, featuring familiar characters like Robo Rapunzel and Robo Pinocchio in technologically advanced narratives. The company is developing two seasons of content and has partnered with a prominent consumer product licensing firm to maximize market reach.
“We combine iconic IP with world-class creative and cutting-edge technology,” says Phillips, revealing plans to produce captivating digital content accessible to a global audience.
Harnessing Cutting-Edge Technology
Partnering with Cosmic Wire, Elf Labs is set to revolutionize audience interaction through augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR). This collaboration enables the creation of rich, immersive worlds where fans engage directly with favorite characters.
CEO Jerad Finck emphasizes this partnership’s potential: “The technology allows for unparalleled immersion into IP, setting the stage for amazing storytelling.”
Looking Ahead
Elf Labs’ comprehensive strategy includes web series, AI-powered toys, and animated feature films, all designed to inspire and connect with young audiences. "Our series Robo Stars offers a new perspective on heroism, showcasing the importance of embracing one's individuality and empowering children to effect positive change."
With strong leadership and a creative vision, Elf Labs is positioned to leverage its unique IP to create lasting impacts in the media landscape while providing enriching, enjoyable experiences for children and families.
Ranking
