As a Houdini owner and fan of American, I really, really hope that you guys have gotten the message that the art packages and animations need to improve. I've never really gotten the impression that you (API) get it yet. I continue to hear this complaint on every podcast I listen to. Bring some people in and get some feedback before you commit to the art and animation style!
Hopefully you grabbed Franchi now that he's a free agent. A Sherlock Holmes art package from a Franchi would go a long way to repairing that reputation.