A Dalmatian wanders in the wide-open Rumpus loft, Jimi Hendrix is on the stereo, and artful junk from flea markets provides anticorporate ambiance. Since it officially pulled out of stores in February, toy sales, not surprisingly, have nearly evaporated. About 45,000 Monsters sit in a warehouse. With new backing, Rumpus plans to use its lively Web site to launch its characters into home videos, TV shows, movies, and other venues that actually produce revenue. Already, it has created about 150 hours of quirky cartoon tales.
Ad revenue trickles in through product placements.
Last week, in time for Halloween, Rumpus unveiled a 10-minute work starring Monster in My Closet and featuring online use of black light, something Rumpus is attempting to patent. Whether it ever airs is anyone's guess. Nevertheless, Mr. Schwarz has no regrets about leaving retail. By using this site, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy .