Product Parade Due for ‘Powers’ Sequel
It’s back, baby. “Austin Powers,” the shagadelic comedy that has developed a near cult following since its 1997 release, has a sequel, and with it are scores of irreverent product tie-ins.
A replica of Mr. Bigglesworth--the cryogenically frozen cat who lost all his fur--could be the world’s first hairless plush toy. In addition to the doll, inflatable furniture, shower curtains, a computer trivia game, an encyclopedia and action figures will go on sale in March, even though “The Spy Who Shagged Me” won’t hit theaters until June 11.
“Consumers are demanding more ‘Austin Powers’ product,” says David Imhoff, executive vice president of worldwide licensing and merchandising for New Line Cinema. “Typically retailers only want merchandise when the buzz begins on a movie. Well, the buzz never faded from the first one.”
“Austin Powers” was the No. 10 bestselling video in 1998, and T-shirts, posters, magnets and greeting cards are already on the market.
Look for the buck teeth and chest hair of this international man of mystery sometime later this year.
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