Monster High: Ghouls Rule will be the first direct-to-DVD, CG-animated film to be released under the new partnership, set for release in the autumn.

Now in over 35 countries, the Monster High characters have become the second largest fashion doll property in the US according to NPD. The Monster High chapter book series is a New York Times best seller and the animated webisode content has topped more than 140 million video views.

"Monster High has become a global phenomenon, uniquely engaging fans around the world with its universal truth – everyone has times when they feel like a monster, struggling to be comfortable and confident in their own skin," said Stephanie Cota, SVP, worldwide marketing, Barbie and Girls at Mattel.

"Universal is truly an expert in home entertainment marketing and distribution and the ideal new global entertainment partner to assist Mattel in continuing to bring Monster High’s rich storytelling to new platforms and audiences."

“Monster High is a growing global sensation with explosive popularity," said Craig Kornblau, president, Universal Studios Home Entertainment. “There is no better time to extend our hugely successful alliance with Mattel to include this exceptional brand that will deliver new and engaging home entertainment content to its rapidly expanding fan base."

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Eddie Cunningham, president, Universal Pictures International Entertainment, added: "We are excited to be working with Mattel and look forward to being part of the Monster High phenomenon around the world. We believe our home entertainment alliance with Mattel and its Monster High brand will build on the success we currently enjoy with Barbie."

The first DVD, Monster High: Ghouls Rule, features all of the beloved student bodies of Monster High, and chronicles their quest to take back Halloween. When Frankie Stein and her friends discover that ghouls used to rule Halloween, the crew sets out to take back this holiday, originally created for them, and restore it as a day when monsters celebrate their individuality.

Mattel will also introduce a new line of fashion dolls, to complement the DVD release, which will be available from autumn. Characters will include Clawdeen Wolf, Frankie Stein, Draculara and Cleo De Nile fashion dolls, each featuring killer hairstyles, sparkles and accessories.