Batman, the character, has long inspired licensed treats, but now that a major motion picture prequel has emerged, there is renewed candy interest:

• More than a month ahead of the movie release date, Taste of Nature has this month launched two Batman Begins candies. The new candy line includes Batman Begins Cotton Candy and Batman Begins Sour Bats Candy. The 2.5-ounce Batman Begins Cotton Candy comes in three flavors, and it will be available in a 24-count case and can be placed on clip strips if required. The cases can also be ordered as “display-ready” cases. The 3.5 ounce Batman Begins Sour Bats Candy is available in open stock 30-count and 12-count cases. The product also comes in 14-count display trays and floor shippers for quick and easy merchandising.

• Flix Candy’s new Batman candy collection became available this month. The product line includes Batman Projector Pop, Batman Sour Spray, Batman Yo-Goo and Batman Push Puppet.

The Batman Projector Pop adds a whole new dimension to lollipops.  While eating a 15g pop, kids can shine the Bat-Signal on the wall, ceiling or their friend’s T-shirt by simply pressing the activation button.  The Projector Pop can project the Bat-Signal up to 10 feet. It has a suggested retail price of 99 cents to $1.29. It is packed in both a 6/12-count case and a 96-count shipper.

Flix Candy also introduces its first ever licensed spray candy: Batman Sour Spray. This tasty Sour Blue Raspberry spray features a collectible Batman head used as a cap and has a suggested retail price of 99 cents to $1.19, offering great value for a spray candy that includes a top license and a well-known character. It is packed in both a 6/12-count case and a 96-count shipper.

• The Topps Company Inc. has recently acquired a license from Warner Bros. Consumer Products on behalf of DC Comics to publish Batman trading cards in North America and Europe. The initial card series will coincide with the film’s release date.

“It is both a privilege and a thrill to be associated with one of the world’s most popular and enduring character franchises,” says Ira Friedman, Topps vice president/publishing and licensing. “We couldn’t ask for a more momentous occasion than the upcoming movie event to kick off an all new era of Batman cards.”

Topps first produced Batman goods nearly four decades ago.

Release Date: June 17, 2005

Primary Target Audience: Tweens/teens

Synopsis: This "prequel" by Christopher Nolan explores the origins of the popular DC Comics superhero, Batman, and The Dark Knight’s emergence as a force for good in Gotham City.

Licensing Support: Mattel, Jakks Pacific and Thinkway Toys (toys); Rocawear (men’s and boys sportswear); Bakery Crafts (decorated cakes/cupcakes); Imaginings 3, Topps, Taste of Nature, Houston Harvest

Gift Products (candy and novelty candy); Kurt Adler (Christmas ornaments); Accessory Network (back-to-school supplies); Hallmark

(party goods, greeting cards); Thermos (lunch kits) and Trends International (calendars).

Licensing Contacts: Karen McTier, executive vice president of domestic licensing, Warner Bros. Consumer Products, (818) 954-3008; Jordan Sollitto, executive vice president of worldwide marketing, Warner Bros. Consumer Products, (818) 954-7807

Additional Promo Plans: A 26 times, half-hour 2-D toon from Warner Bros. Animation is currently airing as part of the Kids’ WB! Saturday morning lineup.

Promotion Contact: Erin Corbett, senior vice president of national promotions, Warner Bros. Pictures, (818) 954-6026

Website: www.batmanbegins.com