The Matchbox line of tiny toy cars is to become a big feature film, and Extraction director Sam Hargrave has landed the plum job of making it.
We learned all the way back in 2022 that Mattel was looking to get a film project underway that would feature its long-running line of Matchbox toy cars. As part of the press release, it was trumpeted that ‘one Matchbox car is sold every second’ meaning that the brand possesses that all important ‘pre-awareness’ that is seen as crucial by the folks that give these types of films the thumbs-up.
Then 2022 happened and that other film based on a Mattel toy did rather well. You may have read a thing or two about the success of Greta Gerwig’s Barbie, but in the wake of that film’s huge success, Mattel announced that it had a number of projects on the horizon that would...
We learned all the way back in 2022 that Mattel was looking to get a film project underway that would feature its long-running line of Matchbox toy cars. As part of the press release, it was trumpeted that ‘one Matchbox car is sold every second’ meaning that the brand possesses that all important ‘pre-awareness’ that is seen as crucial by the folks that give these types of films the thumbs-up.
Then 2022 happened and that other film based on a Mattel toy did rather well. You may have read a thing or two about the success of Greta Gerwig’s Barbie, but in the wake of that film’s huge success, Mattel announced that it had a number of projects on the horizon that would...
- 5/8/2024
- by Dan Cooper
- Film Stories
Mattel's next "big" movie may have found its director, as Deadline reports today that Sam Hargrave has closed a deal with Skydance and Mattel Films to helm the toy company's upcoming film "Matchbox." Hargrave is best known as the director of the Netflix film "Extraction" and its sequel; Netflix has said the first film in the franchise is one of the most-watched original movies it's ever released.
Mattel, the company that brought fans a billion-dollar "Barbie" movie, is clearly looking for another huge hit, and based on his track record at Netflix, Hargrave is able to get audiences seated. The first "Extraction" film dropped in 2020, starred Chris Hemsworth, and was reportedly watched by 99 million households during its first month on the streamer. While Netflix's data and viewership measurements are notoriously opaque, that's still a hell of a number, and it's one that could translate to success when it comes to "Matchbox.
Mattel, the company that brought fans a billion-dollar "Barbie" movie, is clearly looking for another huge hit, and based on his track record at Netflix, Hargrave is able to get audiences seated. The first "Extraction" film dropped in 2020, starred Chris Hemsworth, and was reportedly watched by 99 million households during its first month on the streamer. While Netflix's data and viewership measurements are notoriously opaque, that's still a hell of a number, and it's one that could translate to success when it comes to "Matchbox.
- 5/7/2024
- by Valerie Ettenhofer
- Slash Film
By the power of Greyskull! Deadline reports that Amazon MGM has dated their live-action reboot of “Masters Of The Universe” to arrive in two summers: June 5, 2026, to be exact. The co-production with Mattel Films has been long in the making. But after the success of “Barbie” last summer, this will likely be one of several potential Mattel movies on the 2026 calendar.
Continue reading ‘Masters Of The Universe’: Amazon MGM Dates Their Live-Action Reboot For June 5, 2026 at The Playlist.
Continue reading ‘Masters Of The Universe’: Amazon MGM Dates Their Live-Action Reboot For June 5, 2026 at The Playlist.
- 5/2/2024
- by Ned Booth
- The Playlist
The long-awaited live-action “Masters of the Universe” movie is one step closer to becoming a reality, with Amazon MGM Studios and Mattel Films dating the project for worldwide theatrical release on June 5, 2026.
Travis Knight is on board to direct the film adaptation of the popular franchise, with Chris Butler writing the screenplay, following initial drafts written by David Callaham and Aaron and Adam Nee. Mattel Films’ Robbie Brenner, Escape Artists’ Todd Black, Jason Blumenthal and Steve Tisch are producing.
According to its official synopsis, “Masters of the Universe” introduces a 10-year-old Prince Adam, who crashed to Earth in a spaceship and was separated from his magical Power Sword — the only link to his home on Eternia.
“After tracking it down almost two decades later,” the synopsis explains, “Prince Adam is whisked back across space to defend his home planet against the evil forces of Skeletor. But to defeat such a powerful villain,...
Travis Knight is on board to direct the film adaptation of the popular franchise, with Chris Butler writing the screenplay, following initial drafts written by David Callaham and Aaron and Adam Nee. Mattel Films’ Robbie Brenner, Escape Artists’ Todd Black, Jason Blumenthal and Steve Tisch are producing.
According to its official synopsis, “Masters of the Universe” introduces a 10-year-old Prince Adam, who crashed to Earth in a spaceship and was separated from his magical Power Sword — the only link to his home on Eternia.
“After tracking it down almost two decades later,” the synopsis explains, “Prince Adam is whisked back across space to defend his home planet against the evil forces of Skeletor. But to defeat such a powerful villain,...
- 5/2/2024
- by Angelique Jackson
- Variety Film + TV
Sales
Altitude is launching international sales on two films featuring iconic British band Blur at the Berlin European Film Market. The band, consisting of singer Damon Albarn, guitarist Graham Coxon, bass guitarist Alex James and drummer Dave Rowntree, was formed in 1988 and tasted considerable success until it went on hiatus in 2015.
The first film is an untitled feature-length documentary depicting the return of Blur, captured across a year in which the band made a surprise return with their first record in eight years, the #1 album “The Ballad of Darren.” It follows the relationship of the bandmates of over three decades as they come together to record 10 new songs ahead of their sold-out shows at London’s Wembley Stadium in 2023. The second film is “Blur: Live At Wembley Stadium,” a two-hour concert film of the Wembley show.
Both films are directed by Toby L. and produced by Josh Connolly, via production...
Altitude is launching international sales on two films featuring iconic British band Blur at the Berlin European Film Market. The band, consisting of singer Damon Albarn, guitarist Graham Coxon, bass guitarist Alex James and drummer Dave Rowntree, was formed in 1988 and tasted considerable success until it went on hiatus in 2015.
The first film is an untitled feature-length documentary depicting the return of Blur, captured across a year in which the band made a surprise return with their first record in eight years, the #1 album “The Ballad of Darren.” It follows the relationship of the bandmates of over three decades as they come together to record 10 new songs ahead of their sold-out shows at London’s Wembley Stadium in 2023. The second film is “Blur: Live At Wembley Stadium,” a two-hour concert film of the Wembley show.
Both films are directed by Toby L. and produced by Josh Connolly, via production...
- 2/9/2024
- by Naman Ramachandran
- Variety Film + TV
After the Barbie Oscar snubs for Margot Robbie and Greta Gerwig, Mattel has been getting negative reviews from activist investor Barington Capital.
Barbie may have earned a $1.4 billion dollars at the worldwide box office. But Barington in a recent letter to Mattel advised the toy maker to fix or sell off its American Girl and Fisher-Price brands as part of possible strategic alternatives to raise its share price.
“Mattel’s Fisher-Price and American Girl segments have witnessed dramatic and consistent revenue declines over a multi-year period,” the activist investor wrote to the toy maker. After unveiling his company’s fourth quarter results, Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz told media analysts the Fischer-Price and American Girl properties remained valuable toy brands that the company would continue to invest in.
“We believe we have a very strong portfolio, we always evaluate our portfolio to position the company for growth in line with our...
Barbie may have earned a $1.4 billion dollars at the worldwide box office. But Barington in a recent letter to Mattel advised the toy maker to fix or sell off its American Girl and Fisher-Price brands as part of possible strategic alternatives to raise its share price.
“Mattel’s Fisher-Price and American Girl segments have witnessed dramatic and consistent revenue declines over a multi-year period,” the activist investor wrote to the toy maker. After unveiling his company’s fourth quarter results, Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz told media analysts the Fischer-Price and American Girl properties remained valuable toy brands that the company would continue to invest in.
“We believe we have a very strong portfolio, we always evaluate our portfolio to position the company for growth in line with our...
- 2/7/2024
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
Greta Gerwig's "Barbie" became a bona fide hit this year. After it premiered this July, the film grossed over $1.4 billion worldwide, which, according to Box Office Mojo, makes it the highest-grossing movie of the year so far, beating films like "The Super Mario Bros. Movie," "Oppenheimer," and "Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3." Since it's pulled in passionate audiences worldwide, it's no wonder Mattel is eager to make even more movies inspired by its popular toy brands. Its upcoming film slate is being dubbed the "Mattel Universe." While the success of "Barbie" has certainly helped push the company to begin development on these films, the Mattel Universe has actually been years in the making. Let us explain.
How Did the Mattel Cinematic Universe Begin?
According to The New York Times, talks of a Mattel Universe first began when CEO Ynon Kreiz took over as Mattel's new chairman and chief...
How Did the Mattel Cinematic Universe Begin?
According to The New York Times, talks of a Mattel Universe first began when CEO Ynon Kreiz took over as Mattel's new chairman and chief...
- 10/16/2023
- by Michele Mendez
- Popsugar.com
You are reading an exclusive WrapPRO article for free. Want to level up your entertainment career? Click here for more information.
Mattel CEO and Chairman Ynon Kreiz discussed reshaping the company from a strictly toy-based enterprise to a powerhouse film producer with this summer’s blockbuster “Barbie.”
“Mattel is one of the most iconic companies in corporate America and what really appealed to me was to transform the toy business and capture full value from the intellectual properties,” Kreiz told TheWrap’s editor-in-chief Sharon Waxman during a spotlight conversation at TheGrill, the publication’s annual business conference, on Wednesday.
“I saw an opportunity to transform the company from being a toy manufacturer to an IP company that manages franchises. This is where we realized that the people who buy our product aren’t just consumers, they’re fans. Once you know you have fans in the audience, it changes the conversation.
Mattel CEO and Chairman Ynon Kreiz discussed reshaping the company from a strictly toy-based enterprise to a powerhouse film producer with this summer’s blockbuster “Barbie.”
“Mattel is one of the most iconic companies in corporate America and what really appealed to me was to transform the toy business and capture full value from the intellectual properties,” Kreiz told TheWrap’s editor-in-chief Sharon Waxman during a spotlight conversation at TheGrill, the publication’s annual business conference, on Wednesday.
“I saw an opportunity to transform the company from being a toy manufacturer to an IP company that manages franchises. This is where we realized that the people who buy our product aren’t just consumers, they’re fans. Once you know you have fans in the audience, it changes the conversation.
- 10/4/2023
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
The upcoming “Barney” movie will not be too out there.
Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz confirmed that to Semafor in an interview published on Saturday.
Read More: Film Executive Says ‘Barney’ Live-Action Film Will Revolve Around ‘Millennial Angst’
“It’s too early to be specific, but I can tell you we are taking a fresh approach that will be fun, entertaining and culturally oriented. It will not be an odd movie.”
After the history-masking, game-changing, explosive success of “Barbie”, Mattel has dozens of other film adaptations based on their IP lined up for upcoming releases, including for the American Girl Doll and Hot Wheels.
Read More: Beloved-Yet-Loathed Barney Returning To TV — And He’s Had Some Work Done
Eyebrows were raised when Mattel Films executive Kevin McKeon explained that the “Barney” film would be “surrealistic” and lean into adults “millennial angst.”
“It’s really a play for adults. Not that it’s R-rated,...
Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz confirmed that to Semafor in an interview published on Saturday.
Read More: Film Executive Says ‘Barney’ Live-Action Film Will Revolve Around ‘Millennial Angst’
“It’s too early to be specific, but I can tell you we are taking a fresh approach that will be fun, entertaining and culturally oriented. It will not be an odd movie.”
After the history-masking, game-changing, explosive success of “Barbie”, Mattel has dozens of other film adaptations based on their IP lined up for upcoming releases, including for the American Girl Doll and Hot Wheels.
Read More: Beloved-Yet-Loathed Barney Returning To TV — And He’s Had Some Work Done
Eyebrows were raised when Mattel Films executive Kevin McKeon explained that the “Barney” film would be “surrealistic” and lean into adults “millennial angst.”
“It’s really a play for adults. Not that it’s R-rated,...
- 10/1/2023
- by Emerson Pearson
- ET Canada
Netflix has revealed the premiere date and trailer for its first CoComelon original, ordered more episodes of Gabby’s Dollhouse and announced three preschool series set in the worlds of Hot Wheels, The Wizard of Oz and Universal’s classic monsters.
CoComelon Lane, the streamer’s first foray into original programming with Moonbug Entertainment, will debut its first nine 21-minute episodes globally Nov. 17. Along with revealing its premiere date on Thursday, Netflix dropped the show’s first trailer, giving fans a first look at JJ and his best friends as they navigate and celebrate preschoolers’ special life milestones. That includes dealing with the scaries, taking care of a pet and going to your friend’s place for the first time.
“CoComelon Lane is the franchise’s first-ever dialogue-driven series, so this format will be entirely new to our audience, providing an engaging experience as JJ speaks directly to the audience for the first time,...
CoComelon Lane, the streamer’s first foray into original programming with Moonbug Entertainment, will debut its first nine 21-minute episodes globally Nov. 17. Along with revealing its premiere date on Thursday, Netflix dropped the show’s first trailer, giving fans a first look at JJ and his best friends as they navigate and celebrate preschoolers’ special life milestones. That includes dealing with the scaries, taking care of a pet and going to your friend’s place for the first time.
“CoComelon Lane is the franchise’s first-ever dialogue-driven series, so this format will be entirely new to our audience, providing an engaging experience as JJ speaks directly to the audience for the first time,...
- 9/28/2023
- by Abbey White
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
On the heels of the over-billion-dollar box office success of Barbie, Robbie Brenner has been upped to the president of Mattel Films.
Brenner, whose previous title was executive producer of Mattel Films, joined the company in 2018 after a career as a successful independent producer with credits that include Dallas Buyers Club.
The first film released under Brenner’s tenure at the toy company was the Margot Robbie-fronted Warner Bros title, Barbie. The Greta Gerwig-directed film is the biggest theatrical release of the year, and the biggest box office release in Warner Bros. history, grossing over $1.4 billion at the global box office to date.
“Robbie joined the company five years ago to bring the vision of Mattel Films to life, collaborating with leading filmmakers to make standout quality movies based on our iconic brands that will resonate in culture and appeal to global audiences,” said Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz. “She...
Brenner, whose previous title was executive producer of Mattel Films, joined the company in 2018 after a career as a successful independent producer with credits that include Dallas Buyers Club.
The first film released under Brenner’s tenure at the toy company was the Margot Robbie-fronted Warner Bros title, Barbie. The Greta Gerwig-directed film is the biggest theatrical release of the year, and the biggest box office release in Warner Bros. history, grossing over $1.4 billion at the global box office to date.
“Robbie joined the company five years ago to bring the vision of Mattel Films to life, collaborating with leading filmmakers to make standout quality movies based on our iconic brands that will resonate in culture and appeal to global audiences,” said Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz. “She...
- 9/27/2023
- by Mia Galuppo
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
On Monday, September 25, 2023, at 11:00 Pm, USA Network brings another exciting episode of “Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge.” In this episode titled “Skater Boy vs. Jaipur Jewel,” the stage is set for an epic showdown between two superfans, Felix Arguelles and Arushi Garg.
These passionate Hot Wheels enthusiasts are tasked with a thrilling challenge: transforming an ordinary vehicle into a jaw-dropping Hot Wheels showstopper. What makes this competition even more exciting is that their creations are inspired by their personal stories, interests, and pop culture influences.
To add to the excitement, the episode features a special guest judge, Sung Kang from the Fast & Furious franchise, who brings his expertise to the judging panel. As Felix and Arushi go head-to-head, viewers can expect a thrilling display of creativity, engineering, and a whole lot of Hot Wheels action.
Tune in on September 25, 2023, at 11:00 Pm on USA Network to catch the action-packed...
These passionate Hot Wheels enthusiasts are tasked with a thrilling challenge: transforming an ordinary vehicle into a jaw-dropping Hot Wheels showstopper. What makes this competition even more exciting is that their creations are inspired by their personal stories, interests, and pop culture influences.
To add to the excitement, the episode features a special guest judge, Sung Kang from the Fast & Furious franchise, who brings his expertise to the judging panel. As Felix and Arushi go head-to-head, viewers can expect a thrilling display of creativity, engineering, and a whole lot of Hot Wheels action.
Tune in on September 25, 2023, at 11:00 Pm on USA Network to catch the action-packed...
- 9/20/2023
- by Jules Byrd
- TV Everyday
The latest episode of "Futurama," titled "The Prince and the Product," is the show's seventh anthology episode, and it's the weirdest one to date.
The "Futurama" anthology episodes began back in the series' second season with "Anthology of Interest I", and featured stories that were too outlandish, even for the already-bizarre show. The conceit behind the anthology format, at least at first, was merely to sensationalize the drama in a 1950s style, complete with an over-the-top announcer (Maurice Lamarche) yelling things like "You've seen it! Now you can't unsee it!" As the show progressed, however -- and the showrunners wanted to get even wilder -- the conceit fell away, and anthology shows would be presented just for fun.
The episode "Reincarnation", for instance, merely featured a trio of segments in different animation formats. One was a black-and-white Ub Iwerks-style cartoon, another appeared to have been animated on an Atari...
The "Futurama" anthology episodes began back in the series' second season with "Anthology of Interest I", and featured stories that were too outlandish, even for the already-bizarre show. The conceit behind the anthology format, at least at first, was merely to sensationalize the drama in a 1950s style, complete with an over-the-top announcer (Maurice Lamarche) yelling things like "You've seen it! Now you can't unsee it!" As the show progressed, however -- and the showrunners wanted to get even wilder -- the conceit fell away, and anthology shows would be presented just for fun.
The episode "Reincarnation", for instance, merely featured a trio of segments in different animation formats. One was a black-and-white Ub Iwerks-style cartoon, another appeared to have been animated on an Atari...
- 9/18/2023
- by Witney Seibold
- Slash Film
The world is thinking pink in 2023, as the live-action "Barbie" film is so far the highest-grossing movie of the year, and it doesn't look like anything will be able to come for her crown. It seems impossible that it's taken 60 years for Barbie to finally make it to the big screen (save for cameos in animated movies), but Greta Gerwig's "Barbie" starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling was well worth the wait. We're currently living through the heyday of "the brand movie," and given the groundbreaking and record-setting success of the fantastic plastic American icon, a sequel seems like a given. However, there are a multitude of factors to consider when trying to predict if a "Barbie 2" is on the horizon.
Fortunately, as a newly-minted Barbie historian and an unapologetic lover of Gerwig's film, I've been gobbling up every last tidbit of information about a possible sequel like a...
Fortunately, as a newly-minted Barbie historian and an unapologetic lover of Gerwig's film, I've been gobbling up every last tidbit of information about a possible sequel like a...
- 9/13/2023
- by BJ Colangelo
- Slash Film
Barbie will contribute more than $125 million in gross billings to Mattel this year, the toymaker’s CFO said today in a shout-out to the “nice contribution” from the blockbuster film as it closes in on $1.4 billion worldwide.
Chief financial officer Anthony Disilvestro, speaking alongside CEO Ynon Kreiz at a Goldman Sachs media conference, said cash will continue to flow through 2024 and beyond.
Mattel, which owns the IP to the doll launched in 1959, has a meaningful economic participation in the Warner Bros. film, the execs said.
“Our economics are a function of the revenue, as well as profit participation, which scales up with the success of the movie,” according to Disilvestro. He said the$125 million includes direct movie participation plus sales of toys and consumer products.
Mattel defines gross billings as amounts invoiced to customers, excluding adjustments.
In a story today, the Wjs said Mattel earned 5 percent of Barbie’s box office revenue,...
Chief financial officer Anthony Disilvestro, speaking alongside CEO Ynon Kreiz at a Goldman Sachs media conference, said cash will continue to flow through 2024 and beyond.
Mattel, which owns the IP to the doll launched in 1959, has a meaningful economic participation in the Warner Bros. film, the execs said.
“Our economics are a function of the revenue, as well as profit participation, which scales up with the success of the movie,” according to Disilvestro. He said the$125 million includes direct movie participation plus sales of toys and consumer products.
Mattel defines gross billings as amounts invoiced to customers, excluding adjustments.
In a story today, the Wjs said Mattel earned 5 percent of Barbie’s box office revenue,...
- 9/7/2023
- by Jill Goldsmith
- Deadline Film + TV
After another weekend at the top of the box office, rumours are emerging that a “Barbie” sequel is in the works.
On Sunday, The Sun reported that talks have started on bringing director Greta Gerwig’s plastic world back to the big screen.
Read More: ‘Barbie’ Holds No. 1 Spot At The Box Office For 4th Consecutive Week
“Crew who worked on the Barbie film have been contacted to discuss working on the follow-up,” an insider told the outlet.
“It is very early days, but it’s become apparent that bosses want the same crew for the sequel as they did for the first,” the source said. “Emails have been sent but firmer details have to be finalized.”
The Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling-starring smash has so far grossed nearly 1.2 billion at the global box office, making talk of a sequel unsurprising.
Last month, after “Barbie” premiered, Gerwig told The...
On Sunday, The Sun reported that talks have started on bringing director Greta Gerwig’s plastic world back to the big screen.
Read More: ‘Barbie’ Holds No. 1 Spot At The Box Office For 4th Consecutive Week
“Crew who worked on the Barbie film have been contacted to discuss working on the follow-up,” an insider told the outlet.
“It is very early days, but it’s become apparent that bosses want the same crew for the sequel as they did for the first,” the source said. “Emails have been sent but firmer details have to be finalized.”
The Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling-starring smash has so far grossed nearly 1.2 billion at the global box office, making talk of a sequel unsurprising.
Last month, after “Barbie” premiered, Gerwig told The...
- 8/14/2023
- by Corey Atad
- ET Canada
Mattel's upcoming live-action "Hot Wheels" movie, previously a 6-issue DC Comics' title based on Mattel's "Hot Wheels" die cast car line, featured 'Jack Wheeler' and his 'Hot Wheels' pit crew matching horse power against 'Dexter Carter' and his 'Demons':
"...'Hot Wheels' is a brand of scale model cars invented by Elliot Handler and introduced by his company Mattel in 1968.
"It was the primary competitor of 'Matchbox' until Mattel bought Matchbox owner 'Tyco Toys' in 1997.
"Many automobile manufacturers have since licensed Hot Wheels to make scale models of their cars, allowing the use of original design blueprints and detailing.
"Although Hot Wheels were originally intended to be for children and young adults, they have become popular with adult collectors,with various limited edition models available..."
Click the images to enlarge... ...
"...'Hot Wheels' is a brand of scale model cars invented by Elliot Handler and introduced by his company Mattel in 1968.
"It was the primary competitor of 'Matchbox' until Mattel bought Matchbox owner 'Tyco Toys' in 1997.
"Many automobile manufacturers have since licensed Hot Wheels to make scale models of their cars, allowing the use of original design blueprints and detailing.
"Although Hot Wheels were originally intended to be for children and young adults, they have become popular with adult collectors,with various limited edition models available..."
Click the images to enlarge... ...
- 8/10/2023
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
In September 2018, newly installed Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz revamped the toy company’s Hollywood aspirations and launched a films division with plans to bring its toy franchises to the big screen in licensing and partnerships with studios after options had lapsed on big titles, including a Sony Pictures adaptation of Barbie with Anne Hathaway attached to star.
A year later, its rival, Hasbro, set its sights beyond licensing its big franchises (Dungeons and Dragons, Transformers, G.I. Joe): It wanted to become Marvel Studios and produce its own films, too. So Hasbro snapped up producer Entertainment One for $3.8 billion in August 2019 to cement those ambitions.
Fast-forward to this year and the diverging paths — Should you build and buy or license content? Do you go all in or let partners play a bigger role? — have played out for the toy companies, with Hasbro changing course toward Mattel’s playbook of licensing...
A year later, its rival, Hasbro, set its sights beyond licensing its big franchises (Dungeons and Dragons, Transformers, G.I. Joe): It wanted to become Marvel Studios and produce its own films, too. So Hasbro snapped up producer Entertainment One for $3.8 billion in August 2019 to cement those ambitions.
Fast-forward to this year and the diverging paths — Should you build and buy or license content? Do you go all in or let partners play a bigger role? — have played out for the toy companies, with Hasbro changing course toward Mattel’s playbook of licensing...
- 8/9/2023
- by Etan Vlessing and Georg Szalai
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
From Barbie to The Super Mario Bros. to Hot Wheels and more, the era for movie adaptations of toys and games is here, and in full force. Next up? A Monopoly movie.
That’s right, after closing a $500 million deal to to acquire Entertainment One (eOne) from Hasbro, Lionsgate has put several new titles into motion. Key among them is one based on the popular board game from 1935 (via Variety).
“This sale fully aligns with our strategy, and we are pleased to bring the process to a successful close,” Hasbro CEO Chris Cocks said in a statement regarding the deal. “Lionsgate’s management team is experienced in entertainment and adept at driving value, and we’re glad to have found such a good home for our eOne film and TV business. We look forward to partnering with them, especially on a movie adaptation of Monopoly.”
A movie adaptation of the...
That’s right, after closing a $500 million deal to to acquire Entertainment One (eOne) from Hasbro, Lionsgate has put several new titles into motion. Key among them is one based on the popular board game from 1935 (via Variety).
“This sale fully aligns with our strategy, and we are pleased to bring the process to a successful close,” Hasbro CEO Chris Cocks said in a statement regarding the deal. “Lionsgate’s management team is experienced in entertainment and adept at driving value, and we’re glad to have found such a good home for our eOne film and TV business. We look forward to partnering with them, especially on a movie adaptation of Monopoly.”
A movie adaptation of the...
- 8/4/2023
- by Jo Vito
- Consequence - Film News
Thanks to the box office success of "Barbie", Mattel Films will produce a live-action feature adapting the "mystic, fortune-telling fun" of the 'Magic 8 Ball':
"Since the 1950's, 'Magic 8 Ball' has inspired imagination, suspense and intrigue across generations," said Mattel.
"This iconic toy has a built-in connection with fans and untapped potential for storytelling...."
"Magic 8 Ball" was invented in 1946 by Albert Carter, son of a clairvoyant, who marketed and sold the device with Abe Bookman of the Alabe Crafts Company.
The hollow, plastic sphere resembling an oversized billiard 8-ball, contains a cylindrical reservoir containing a white, plastic, 'icosahedral' die floating in alcohol and dissolved dark blue dye.
The die is hollow, with openings in each face, allowing the die to fill with fluid, giving the plastic die buoyancy. Each of the 20 faces of the die has an affirmative, negative, or non-committal statement printed in raised letters, with a transparent window on...
"Since the 1950's, 'Magic 8 Ball' has inspired imagination, suspense and intrigue across generations," said Mattel.
"This iconic toy has a built-in connection with fans and untapped potential for storytelling...."
"Magic 8 Ball" was invented in 1946 by Albert Carter, son of a clairvoyant, who marketed and sold the device with Abe Bookman of the Alabe Crafts Company.
The hollow, plastic sphere resembling an oversized billiard 8-ball, contains a cylindrical reservoir containing a white, plastic, 'icosahedral' die floating in alcohol and dissolved dark blue dye.
The die is hollow, with openings in each face, allowing the die to fill with fluid, giving the plastic die buoyancy. Each of the 20 faces of the die has an affirmative, negative, or non-committal statement printed in raised letters, with a transparent window on...
- 7/27/2023
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
After dominating the box office and breaking records with “Barbie,” Mattel has officially arrived in Hollywood.
In 2018, after a tumultuous period of declining toy sales, Mattel brought in a new CEO, businessman Ynon Kreiz, who had a vision to turn the storied toy company into an IP-driven machine, essentially creating a Mattel cinematic universe. Now, with the immense success of “Barbie,” the path is clear for Mattel to make whatever they want — and they already have a ton of projects in the works with A-list partners attached.
With dozens of children’s toys on their film slate, 14 Mattel properties are in active development, including “Barney,” “Polly Pocket,” “Thomas and Friends” and “American Girl.”
Of course, the door is also wide open for “Barbie” sequels. Director Greta Gerwig has said that she’s not thinking about a follow-up at this time, saying, “At this moment, it’s all I’ve got.
In 2018, after a tumultuous period of declining toy sales, Mattel brought in a new CEO, businessman Ynon Kreiz, who had a vision to turn the storied toy company into an IP-driven machine, essentially creating a Mattel cinematic universe. Now, with the immense success of “Barbie,” the path is clear for Mattel to make whatever they want — and they already have a ton of projects in the works with A-list partners attached.
With dozens of children’s toys on their film slate, 14 Mattel properties are in active development, including “Barney,” “Polly Pocket,” “Thomas and Friends” and “American Girl.”
Of course, the door is also wide open for “Barbie” sequels. Director Greta Gerwig has said that she’s not thinking about a follow-up at this time, saying, “At this moment, it’s all I’ve got.
- 7/26/2023
- by Elizabeth Wagmeister
- Variety Film + TV
Skeletor has triumphed over the forces of Eternia, as TheWrap has confirmed that Netflix has scuttled its iteration of the long-developing “Masters of the Universe” movie.
Mattel will be searching for a new producing/distribution partner for a big-budget adaptation of the 1980s action figure property, with at least $30 million in development costs already spent since 2007 in prior attempts to make a new movie. This latest version had Kyle Allen — still officially attached — starring as He-Man with Adam and Aaron Nee (“The Lost City”) set to direct.
The project has been bouncing around Hollywood for over 15 years, with Warner Bros. and Sony, as well as filmmakers like Jon M. Chu and McG temporarily involved. This recent attempt was shelved due to concerns over the budget, which reportedly ran over $200 million and was shut down even after the filmmakers allegedly brought the costs below $180 million.
A Netflix rep declined to comment,...
Mattel will be searching for a new producing/distribution partner for a big-budget adaptation of the 1980s action figure property, with at least $30 million in development costs already spent since 2007 in prior attempts to make a new movie. This latest version had Kyle Allen — still officially attached — starring as He-Man with Adam and Aaron Nee (“The Lost City”) set to direct.
The project has been bouncing around Hollywood for over 15 years, with Warner Bros. and Sony, as well as filmmakers like Jon M. Chu and McG temporarily involved. This recent attempt was shelved due to concerns over the budget, which reportedly ran over $200 million and was shut down even after the filmmakers allegedly brought the costs below $180 million.
A Netflix rep declined to comment,...
- 7/18/2023
- by Scott Mendelson
- The Wrap
Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge fans, we’ve got a fresh off the press preview for the new Season 1 Episode 8 episode titled Metamorphosis vs. Racer Girl!
Find out everything you need to know about the Metamorphosis vs. Racer Girl episode of Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge, including a full preview, videos, release date, cast information and how to watch!
Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge Metamorphosis vs. Racer Girl Season 1 Episode 8 Preview
On July 25, 2023, NBC brings you “Metamorphosis vs. Racer Girl,” a showdown between two dedicated superfans, Kris Parker and Lauren Partin, as they go head-to-head in the ultimate vehicle transformation competition.
In this episode, Kris and Lauren will be challenged to take an ordinary vehicle and transform it into an extraordinary Hot Wheels showstopper.
The episode promises nail-biting suspense, creative ingenuity, and a healthy dose of friendly rivalry.
Watch on July 25, 2023, at 10:00 Pm on NBC for the “Metamorphosis vs. Racer Girl,” episode of “Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge.
Find out everything you need to know about the Metamorphosis vs. Racer Girl episode of Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge, including a full preview, videos, release date, cast information and how to watch!
Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge Metamorphosis vs. Racer Girl Season 1 Episode 8 Preview
On July 25, 2023, NBC brings you “Metamorphosis vs. Racer Girl,” a showdown between two dedicated superfans, Kris Parker and Lauren Partin, as they go head-to-head in the ultimate vehicle transformation competition.
In this episode, Kris and Lauren will be challenged to take an ordinary vehicle and transform it into an extraordinary Hot Wheels showstopper.
The episode promises nail-biting suspense, creative ingenuity, and a healthy dose of friendly rivalry.
Watch on July 25, 2023, at 10:00 Pm on NBC for the “Metamorphosis vs. Racer Girl,” episode of “Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge.
- 7/18/2023
- by News
- TV Regular
Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge fans, we’ve got a fresh off the press preview for the new Season 1 Episode 7 episode titled Mardi Gras Mania vs. The Reaper!
Find out everything you need to know about the Mardi Gras Mania vs. The Reaper episode of Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge, including a full preview, videos, release date, cast information and how to watch!
Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge Mardi Gras Mania vs. The Reaper Season 1 Episode 7 Preview
Get ready for a New episode of “Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge” as NBC brings you “Mardi Gras Mania vs. The Reaper” on July 18, 2023, at 10:00 Pm.
This competition showcases the talents of two super fans, Michael Cooney and Nick Harrison, as they go head-to-head to create extraordinary Hot Wheels showstoppers that will leave you in awe.
Adding to the excitement is the special guest judge for this episode, WWE Superstar Big E. With his larger-than-life presence and expert eye for detail,...
Find out everything you need to know about the Mardi Gras Mania vs. The Reaper episode of Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge, including a full preview, videos, release date, cast information and how to watch!
Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge Mardi Gras Mania vs. The Reaper Season 1 Episode 7 Preview
Get ready for a New episode of “Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge” as NBC brings you “Mardi Gras Mania vs. The Reaper” on July 18, 2023, at 10:00 Pm.
This competition showcases the talents of two super fans, Michael Cooney and Nick Harrison, as they go head-to-head to create extraordinary Hot Wheels showstoppers that will leave you in awe.
Adding to the excitement is the special guest judge for this episode, WWE Superstar Big E. With his larger-than-life presence and expert eye for detail,...
- 7/11/2023
- by News
- TV Regular
Get in touch to send in cinephile news and discoveries. For daily updates follow us @NotebookMUBI.NEWSConann.The lineup for the 76th Locarno Film Festival is now online, and it includes new films from Radu Jude, Eduardo Williams, Bertrand Mandico (a feature and two shorts), Leonor Teles, Lav Diaz, and Denis Côté, plus many more. The festival runs from August 2 through 12.Following Barbie, which releases later this month, Greta Gerwig will next direct two Chronicles of Narnia adaptations for Netflix. This news comes as a side detail in a wide-reaching New Yorker piece on Mattel Films by Alex Barasch, which details the toy company’s plans to develop more than 45 films using its properties, including a Hot Wheels film by J.J. Abrams and a Daniel Kaluuya-led, "surrealistic" reboot of the children's show Barney.REMEMBERINGThe great comic actor Alan Arkin died last week at age 89. For the New York Times,...
- 7/5/2023
- MUBI
The era of toy movies has arrived. Weeks ahead of the official release of Greta Gerwig’s Barbie, the iconic toy company Mattel has made headlines for even more toy-inspired flicks in the works, including an “A24-type” movie about Barney and, now, a “gritty” film adaptation of Hot Wheels produced by J.J. Abrams.
In a new report from The New Yorker offering a run-down of the upcoming media projects Mattel is engaged in, fans received a preview of what the forthcoming Hot Wheels film will be like. The project — produced by Abrams’ production company, Bad Robot — was first announced over a year ago in April 2022, and will reportedly be “emotional and grounded and gritty,” though the script has “yet to materialize.”
“For a long time, we were talking to Mattel about Hot Wheels, and we couldn’t quite find the thing that clicked, that made it worthy of what Hot Wheels — that title — deserved,...
In a new report from The New Yorker offering a run-down of the upcoming media projects Mattel is engaged in, fans received a preview of what the forthcoming Hot Wheels film will be like. The project — produced by Abrams’ production company, Bad Robot — was first announced over a year ago in April 2022, and will reportedly be “emotional and grounded and gritty,” though the script has “yet to materialize.”
“For a long time, we were talking to Mattel about Hot Wheels, and we couldn’t quite find the thing that clicked, that made it worthy of what Hot Wheels — that title — deserved,...
- 7/5/2023
- by Jo Vito
- Consequence - Film News
Phil Breman, the head of live-action series development for Mattel, knows the primal power of a good toy.
Breman, a veteran of Disney, where he oversaw live-action scripted programming, and NBCUniversal, where he handled all creative and production elements on shows like “Kenan” and “Timeless”, is helping adapt Mattel properties like “Monster High” and “Hot Wheels” for new audiences. This could mean turning “Monster High” into a live-action series or turning “Hot Wheels” into “Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge,” a show where winners will see their car turned into an actual Hot Wheels collectible.
“Audiences want to be engaged,” he told The Wrap for this week’s Office With a View. “They want to have true emotional connection. That’s what’s going to keep someone watching from week to week.”
Perhaps the most exciting project Breman has in the works is “Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge,” coming to HGTV on July 16, which...
Breman, a veteran of Disney, where he oversaw live-action scripted programming, and NBCUniversal, where he handled all creative and production elements on shows like “Kenan” and “Timeless”, is helping adapt Mattel properties like “Monster High” and “Hot Wheels” for new audiences. This could mean turning “Monster High” into a live-action series or turning “Hot Wheels” into “Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge,” a show where winners will see their car turned into an actual Hot Wheels collectible.
“Audiences want to be engaged,” he told The Wrap for this week’s Office With a View. “They want to have true emotional connection. That’s what’s going to keep someone watching from week to week.”
Perhaps the most exciting project Breman has in the works is “Barbie Dreamhouse Challenge,” coming to HGTV on July 16, which...
- 6/29/2023
- by Drew Taylor
- The Wrap
In the latest TV show ratings, NBC’s America’s Got Talent season opener dominated the first Tuesday of the off-season.
NBC | AGT (with 5.9 million total viewers and a 0.6 demo rating) was down from last May’s season premiere (6.3 mil/0.8). In turn, that Hot Wheels showmercial (2.3 mil/0.3) fell shy of what Dancing With Myself debuted to out of AGT a year ago (2.7 mil/0.4).
More from TVLineThe Blacklist Sets July Airdate for Supersized Series Finale at NBCChicago P.D. Season 10 Ends in Bloodshed -- Will [Spoiler] Survive?Chicago Fire Finale Recap: Meant to Be -- Plus, Is [Spoiler] a Goner?!
The CW | With a much quieter playing field,...
NBC | AGT (with 5.9 million total viewers and a 0.6 demo rating) was down from last May’s season premiere (6.3 mil/0.8). In turn, that Hot Wheels showmercial (2.3 mil/0.3) fell shy of what Dancing With Myself debuted to out of AGT a year ago (2.7 mil/0.4).
More from TVLineThe Blacklist Sets July Airdate for Supersized Series Finale at NBCChicago P.D. Season 10 Ends in Bloodshed -- Will [Spoiler] Survive?Chicago Fire Finale Recap: Meant to Be -- Plus, Is [Spoiler] a Goner?!
The CW | With a much quieter playing field,...
- 5/31/2023
- by Matt Webb Mitovich
- TVLine.com
Good afternoon Insiders, Max Goldbart here penning the weekly mailer a day after Cannes revealed its long-awaited lineup. Read on for all the details and plenty more, and sign up to the International Insider here.
Cannes Lineup Roars
Few surprises: Zac Ntim here reporting on Cannes …Cannes General Delegate Thierry Frémaux announced 52 titles Thursday morning that will debut at the festival’s 76th edition, which runs May 16-27 on the Riviera. There were few surprises in the Official Competition lineup, with festival favorites such as Wes Anderson, Ken Loach, Nanni Moretti and Hirokazu Kore-eda vying for the Palme d’Or alongside long-rumored entries from Alice Rohrwacher, Jonathan Glazer and Aki Kaurismäki. The festival did, however, clock six films with women filmmakers playing in competition, a new record for Cannes. With 19 competition titles announced, however, six still remains far below that elusive 50% parity mark. Progress has been slow. This year’s...
Cannes Lineup Roars
Few surprises: Zac Ntim here reporting on Cannes …Cannes General Delegate Thierry Frémaux announced 52 titles Thursday morning that will debut at the festival’s 76th edition, which runs May 16-27 on the Riviera. There were few surprises in the Official Competition lineup, with festival favorites such as Wes Anderson, Ken Loach, Nanni Moretti and Hirokazu Kore-eda vying for the Palme d’Or alongside long-rumored entries from Alice Rohrwacher, Jonathan Glazer and Aki Kaurismäki. The festival did, however, clock six films with women filmmakers playing in competition, a new record for Cannes. With 19 competition titles announced, however, six still remains far below that elusive 50% parity mark. Progress has been slow. This year’s...
- 4/14/2023
- by Max Goldbart
- Deadline Film + TV
It’s a Barbie world, and we’re all just living in it.
What seems like a Mattel doll lifetime ago, Margot Robbie confirmed the “Barbie” live-action film adaptation in July 2019, with Greta Gerwig and partner Noah Baumbach co-writing the script. Gerwig was later announced to be directing the film.
The news marked the famed blonde-haired doll’s 60th anniversary. “Barbie” will premiere in theaters on July 21, 2023.
Robbie, who will star as Barbie opposite Ryan Gosling’s Ken, is slated to produce the film through her production company LuckyChap Entertainment. Mattel Films and HeyDay Films will co-produce.
The “Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood” star admitted that the film “comes with a lot of baggage and a lot of nostalgic connections” to honor the doll’s legacy. “But with that come a lot of exciting ways to attack it,” Robbie said to British Vogue. “People generally hear ‘Barbie’ and think,...
What seems like a Mattel doll lifetime ago, Margot Robbie confirmed the “Barbie” live-action film adaptation in July 2019, with Greta Gerwig and partner Noah Baumbach co-writing the script. Gerwig was later announced to be directing the film.
The news marked the famed blonde-haired doll’s 60th anniversary. “Barbie” will premiere in theaters on July 21, 2023.
Robbie, who will star as Barbie opposite Ryan Gosling’s Ken, is slated to produce the film through her production company LuckyChap Entertainment. Mattel Films and HeyDay Films will co-produce.
The “Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood” star admitted that the film “comes with a lot of baggage and a lot of nostalgic connections” to honor the doll’s legacy. “But with that come a lot of exciting ways to attack it,” Robbie said to British Vogue. “People generally hear ‘Barbie’ and think,...
- 4/4/2023
- by Samantha Bergeson
- Indiewire
NBC has announced its summer slate, which includes new seasons of America’s Got Talent and American Ninja Warrior, as well as the premieres of Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge and docuseries LA Fire & Rescue.
America’s Got Talent Season 18 and Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge will kick things off with back-to-back premieres on May 30. AGT will lead primetime from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Et/Pt, and Hot Wheels will follow.
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Season 15 of American Ninja Warrior will debut on June 5 from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Et/Pt. LA Fire & Rescue, a new docuseries from the producers of Chicago Fire, will bow on June 21 from 8 p.
America’s Got Talent Season 18 and Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge will kick things off with back-to-back premieres on May 30. AGT will lead primetime from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Et/Pt, and Hot Wheels will follow.
Related Story 2023 Premiere Dates For New & Returning Series On Broadcast, Cable & Streaming Related Story David Alan Grier Joins Wendy McLendon-Covey In 'St. Denis Medical' NBC Comedy Pilot Related Story 'American Ninja Warrior' Lands Bumper Renewal Order At NBC With Taller Mega Wall Among Format Changes
Season 15 of American Ninja Warrior will debut on June 5 from 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. Et/Pt. LA Fire & Rescue, a new docuseries from the producers of Chicago Fire, will bow on June 21 from 8 p.
- 3/30/2023
- by Katie Campione
- Deadline Film + TV
Anne Hathaway (Eileen) has signed on to star in a mysterious new film that David Robert Mitchell will direct for Warner Bros. Pictures, Bad Robot and Jackson Pictures.
While the pic is billed as a “thrill-ride” to be shot in IMAX, which will head into production this fall, other details are scarce at present.
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Mitchell penned the original script and will produce alongside J.J. Abrams and Hannah Minghella for Bad Robot, and Jackson Pictures’ Matt Jackson. Jake Weiner and Chris Bender of Good Fear Content will serve as exec producers.
Other...
While the pic is billed as a “thrill-ride” to be shot in IMAX, which will head into production this fall, other details are scarce at present.
Related Story Denzel Washington Reuniting With Ridley Scott On ‘Gladiator’ Sequel At Paramount Related Story 'Shazam! Fury Of The Gods' Thunders To $3.4M On Thursday Night – Box Office Related Story 'Shazam! Fury Of The Gods' Review: DC's Young Superhero Saga Led By Zachary Levi Is Bigger But Still Has Humor And Heart Intact
Mitchell penned the original script and will produce alongside J.J. Abrams and Hannah Minghella for Bad Robot, and Jackson Pictures’ Matt Jackson. Jake Weiner and Chris Bender of Good Fear Content will serve as exec producers.
Other...
- 3/17/2023
- by Matt Grobar
- Deadline Film + TV
NBC is trading toy cars for real Hot Wheels.
The network has placed a series order for Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge, a car makeover competition show hosted by Rutledge Wood (Floor Is Lava).
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“The 10-episode series will give Hot Wheels superfans the opportunity of a lifetime – turning a nostalgic car from their past into the life-sized Hot Wheels of their dreams.
The network has placed a series order for Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge, a car makeover competition show hosted by Rutledge Wood (Floor Is Lava).
More from TVLineVoice Recap: Blast From the Past Stuns Kelly Clarkson as the Blinds ContinueQuantum Leap Recap: Brandon Routh Drops By, and [Spoiler] ReturnsThe Voice Season 23 Premiere Recap: Blake Shelton's Farewell Tour Begins -- Plus, Grade the Rookie Coaches
“The 10-episode series will give Hot Wheels superfans the opportunity of a lifetime – turning a nostalgic car from their past into the life-sized Hot Wheels of their dreams.
- 3/7/2023
- by Erianne Lewis
- TVLine.com
NBC has ordered a reality series based on Mattel’s iconic Hot Wheels toys.
Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge is a described as a car makeover series where car fans will face off to transform an ordinary vehicle into a Hot Wheels showstopper, inspired by personal stories and pop culture touchstones, in a high-tech, decked-out garage.
The 10-episode series will be hosted by Rutledge Wood (Top Gear US), who will also serve as one of the show’s judges.
“Everyone remembers their first car, the life experiences they had and the friends who came along for the ride,” said Corie Henson, executive vp unscripted programming at NBCUniversal Television and Streaming. “Hot Wheels is a legendary brand that has created a space for imaginations to run free.”
The show will have a rotating panel of celebrity guest judges joining resident experts Hertrech Eugene Jr., an influencer in car culture and the drift scene,...
Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge is a described as a car makeover series where car fans will face off to transform an ordinary vehicle into a Hot Wheels showstopper, inspired by personal stories and pop culture touchstones, in a high-tech, decked-out garage.
The 10-episode series will be hosted by Rutledge Wood (Top Gear US), who will also serve as one of the show’s judges.
“Everyone remembers their first car, the life experiences they had and the friends who came along for the ride,” said Corie Henson, executive vp unscripted programming at NBCUniversal Television and Streaming. “Hot Wheels is a legendary brand that has created a space for imaginations to run free.”
The show will have a rotating panel of celebrity guest judges joining resident experts Hertrech Eugene Jr., an influencer in car culture and the drift scene,...
- 3/7/2023
- by James Hibberd
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
NBC has handed a series order to car makeover competition series Hot Wheels: Ultimate Challenge from Endemol Shine North America, Workerbee and Mattel Television.
The competition, which is based on the popular toy cars, will be hosted by Rutledge Wood, who will also serve as one of the judges. The 10-episode series gives Hot Wheels fans the opportunity to rebuild a nostalgic car from their past into a life-sized Hot Wheels creation.
In each episode, two contestants will face off. Their goal is to use personal stories and pop culture touchstones to transform their car into a Hot Wheels. They’ll receive help from a team of technicians known as “The Car Pool.” To raise the stakes of the competition, the show has thrown in a larger-than-life vending machine known as the the Inspirationator 5000 that will rev up in each episode to present the contestants with a twist in the road.
The competition, which is based on the popular toy cars, will be hosted by Rutledge Wood, who will also serve as one of the judges. The 10-episode series gives Hot Wheels fans the opportunity to rebuild a nostalgic car from their past into a life-sized Hot Wheels creation.
In each episode, two contestants will face off. Their goal is to use personal stories and pop culture touchstones to transform their car into a Hot Wheels. They’ll receive help from a team of technicians known as “The Car Pool.” To raise the stakes of the competition, the show has thrown in a larger-than-life vending machine known as the the Inspirationator 5000 that will rev up in each episode to present the contestants with a twist in the road.
- 3/7/2023
- by Katie Campione
- Deadline Film + TV
Mattel saw its toy sales and earnings tumble during the fourth quarter as its best known brand, Barbie, is set for a Hollywood movie adaptation that stars Margot Robbie.
During the fourth quarter, Mattel posted overall revenues from holiday season sales at 1.4 billion, which was down 22 percent from a year-earlier 1.79 billion and a miss on an analyst estimate of 1.68 billion revenue. Mattel also saw net income tumble to 16.1 million, compared to 225.8 million in 2021, and the adjusted earnings per-share came to 18 cents, against a year-earlier 53 cents, and another miss on a 29 cents consensus among analysts for the latest quarter.
“Our fourth quarter results were below our expectations, as the macro-economic environment was more challenging than anticipated,” Ynon Kreiz, chairman and CEO of Mattel, said in a statement after missing on Wall Street expectations on Wednesday.
“We believe we are well-positioned to continue executing our multi-year strategy to grow our IP-driven toy...
During the fourth quarter, Mattel posted overall revenues from holiday season sales at 1.4 billion, which was down 22 percent from a year-earlier 1.79 billion and a miss on an analyst estimate of 1.68 billion revenue. Mattel also saw net income tumble to 16.1 million, compared to 225.8 million in 2021, and the adjusted earnings per-share came to 18 cents, against a year-earlier 53 cents, and another miss on a 29 cents consensus among analysts for the latest quarter.
“Our fourth quarter results were below our expectations, as the macro-economic environment was more challenging than anticipated,” Ynon Kreiz, chairman and CEO of Mattel, said in a statement after missing on Wall Street expectations on Wednesday.
“We believe we are well-positioned to continue executing our multi-year strategy to grow our IP-driven toy...
- 2/8/2023
- by Etan Vlessing
- The Hollywood Reporter - Movie News
There is no sign of slowing down for Emma Thompson, the British actress has signed up to star in Brian Kirk’s thriller, ‘The Fisherwoman.’
Thompson is set to play a widowed fisherman who, while trapped in a Minnesotan blizzard, interrupts the kidnapping of a teenager and soon finds she is the young victim’s only hope.
Kirk will direct from a screenplay by Nicholas Jacobson-Larson and Dalton Leeb, who has just been tapped to write the “Hot Wheels” movie for Warner Bros and Bad Robot. Thompson will also executive produce the project
Also in news – Full casting announced for ‘Boiling Point’ TV adaptation
The two-time Oscar winner recently appeared in ‘Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical’ and ‘Good Luck to You, Leo Grande’ and is soon to be seen alongside Lily James in the upcoming rom-com ‘What’s Love Got to Do With It.’
Kirk is the co-creator and director of...
Thompson is set to play a widowed fisherman who, while trapped in a Minnesotan blizzard, interrupts the kidnapping of a teenager and soon finds she is the young victim’s only hope.
Kirk will direct from a screenplay by Nicholas Jacobson-Larson and Dalton Leeb, who has just been tapped to write the “Hot Wheels” movie for Warner Bros and Bad Robot. Thompson will also executive produce the project
Also in news – Full casting announced for ‘Boiling Point’ TV adaptation
The two-time Oscar winner recently appeared in ‘Roald Dahl’s Matilda the Musical’ and ‘Good Luck to You, Leo Grande’ and is soon to be seen alongside Lily James in the upcoming rom-com ‘What’s Love Got to Do With It.’
Kirk is the co-creator and director of...
- 2/2/2023
- by Zehra Phelan
- HeyUGuys.co.uk
Emma Thompson is set to star in Brian Kirk’s upcoming action thriller “The Fisherwoman,” Variety can exclusively reveal.
In the feature, Thompson is set to play a widowed fisherman who, while trapped in a Minnesotan blizzard, interrupts the kidnapping of a teenager and soon finds she is the young victim’s only hope.
Kirk will direct from a screenplay by Nicholas Jacobson-Larson and Dalton Leeb, who have just been tapped to write the “Hot Wheels” movie for Warner Bros and Bad Robot. The duo are also currently working on “The Fall” for Amblin and Blackmaled Productions
Greg Silverman of Stampede Ventures, who are co-financing the film alongside Augenschein Filmproduktion, Film und Medienstiftung Nrw and German broadcaster Zdf, announced the project on Wednesday.
Mossbank is handling international sales and co-repping domestic rights with CAA Media Finance and Augenschein. Augenschein will also exclusively represent German-speaking European territories while Leonine is co-producing and distributing for German-speaking Europe.
In the feature, Thompson is set to play a widowed fisherman who, while trapped in a Minnesotan blizzard, interrupts the kidnapping of a teenager and soon finds she is the young victim’s only hope.
Kirk will direct from a screenplay by Nicholas Jacobson-Larson and Dalton Leeb, who have just been tapped to write the “Hot Wheels” movie for Warner Bros and Bad Robot. The duo are also currently working on “The Fall” for Amblin and Blackmaled Productions
Greg Silverman of Stampede Ventures, who are co-financing the film alongside Augenschein Filmproduktion, Film und Medienstiftung Nrw and German broadcaster Zdf, announced the project on Wednesday.
Mossbank is handling international sales and co-repping domestic rights with CAA Media Finance and Augenschein. Augenschein will also exclusively represent German-speaking European territories while Leonine is co-producing and distributing for German-speaking Europe.
- 2/1/2023
- by K.J. Yossman
- Variety Film + TV
Mattel is making room in the backseat of its Hot Wheels movie for writers Dalton Leeb and Nicholas Jacobson-Larson. The duo is responsible for writing the toys-to-screen adaptation based on the time-honored Mattel franchise, hailing from Warner Bros. and Bad Robot. The toy-making company is exploring several projects based on popular toylines, including American Girl, Barney, Magic 8 Ball, Major Matt Mason, Matchbox, Masters of the Universe, Polly Pocket, Rock’ Em Sock’ Em Robots, Thomas & Friends, Uno, View-Master, and Wish Bone. In addition to the properties mentioned above, Mattel is also developing Christmas Balloon and Greta Gerwig’s Barbie, starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling.
According to The Npd Group retail tracking service, Hot Wheels are the #1 selling toy worldwide, with over 8 billion vehicles sold. As many of us played with the tiny cars at some point in our lives, that number isn’t a huge surprise. While we don’t...
According to The Npd Group retail tracking service, Hot Wheels are the #1 selling toy worldwide, with over 8 billion vehicles sold. As many of us played with the tiny cars at some point in our lives, that number isn’t a huge surprise. While we don’t...
- 1/23/2023
- by Steve Seigh
- JoBlo.com
Exclusive: Mattel is putting gas in the tank of its Warner Bros-Bad Robot movie Hot Wheels with writers Dalton Leeb and Nicholas Jacobson-Larson boarding to pen the live-action adaptation of the 54-year old racecar toys.
Robbie Brenner, EP for Mattel Films, will lead the project alongside VP Kevin McKeon, VP and creative executive Andrew Scannell. Hannah Minghella and Jon Cohen are overseeing for Bad Robot.
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Nick and Dalton sold their original sci-fi spec, Endurance, to Netflix with Simon Kinberg producing in a multi-studio bidding war. The script follows a group of AI robots that...
Robbie Brenner, EP for Mattel Films, will lead the project alongside VP Kevin McKeon, VP and creative executive Andrew Scannell. Hannah Minghella and Jon Cohen are overseeing for Bad Robot.
Related Story Christoph Waltz To Lead Action-Comedy ‘Old Guy’ For ‘Con Air’ Director Simon West; Highland Film Group Launching For EFM Related Story 'Elvis' Studio Warner Bros On Lisa Marie Presley Death: "A Devoted Mother, Beloved Daughter, Loving Friend" Related Story 'House Party' Review: Calmatic's Feature-Film Debut Reboot Is Overshadowed By The Original
Nick and Dalton sold their original sci-fi spec, Endurance, to Netflix with Simon Kinberg producing in a multi-studio bidding war. The script follows a group of AI robots that...
- 1/23/2023
- by Anthony D'Alessandro
- Deadline Film + TV
Curated by the IndieWire editorial team, Craft Considerations is a video platform for filmmakers to discuss how they applied their craft to a recent work we believe is worthy of awards consideration. For this edition, we look at how “Nope” actress Keke Palmer collaborated with writer-director Jordan Peele to bring the funny, tenacious Emerald to life in the sci-fi horror blockbuster.
Keke Palmer was still learning just exactly who her “Nope” character Emerald was when she shot her memorable entrance, a rollicking run-through of how her family company has serviced Hollywood since the industry’s earliest days.
“It was so funny, because that was not in the original script. That was something that I ended up seeing five days before we started shooting,” the star told IndieWire. “I was just like, ‘When the hell did you put this in here?’”
Writer-director Jordan Peele trusted Palmer was up for the challenge as he had written Emerald,...
Keke Palmer was still learning just exactly who her “Nope” character Emerald was when she shot her memorable entrance, a rollicking run-through of how her family company has serviced Hollywood since the industry’s earliest days.
“It was so funny, because that was not in the original script. That was something that I ended up seeing five days before we started shooting,” the star told IndieWire. “I was just like, ‘When the hell did you put this in here?’”
Writer-director Jordan Peele trusted Palmer was up for the challenge as he had written Emerald,...
- 1/9/2023
- by Marcus Jones
- Indiewire
'Mattel Films', the inhouse production division of toy company Mattel Inc. continues developing more company brands for film and video games including Margot Robbie's "Barbie", a new "Hot Wheels" video game "Hot Wheels Unleashed" and a whole lot more, led by Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz:
"Mattel is home to one of the world's greatest portfolios of beloved franchises, and the creation of 'Mattel Films' allow us to unlock significant value," said Kreiz.
"As for 'Barbie', Margot Robbie is a gifted storyteller and a highly respected filmmaker with deep relationships in entertainment.
"She is the perfect leader to bring a celebrated brand to life..."
Click the images to enlarge...
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"Mattel is home to one of the world's greatest portfolios of beloved franchises, and the creation of 'Mattel Films' allow us to unlock significant value," said Kreiz.
"As for 'Barbie', Margot Robbie is a gifted storyteller and a highly respected filmmaker with deep relationships in entertainment.
"She is the perfect leader to bring a celebrated brand to life..."
Click the images to enlarge...
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- 8/30/2022
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
With Mattel Toys now putting their ‘Monster High’ dolls back in production, Mattel Films continues producing a live-action "Monster High" TV movie musical, based on the first original toy franchise for the company since "Hot Wheels" in 1968, featuring collectible dolls packaged as the children of famous monsters including 'Draculaura', 'Frankie Stein', 'Clawdeen Wolf', 'Cleo de Nile and 'Lagoona Blue', debuting in 2022 on Nickleodeon:
"...'Clawdeen Wolf', born half human and half werewolf, arrives at her new school, 'Monster High'. She quickly makes friends with her classmates 'Frankie Stein' and 'Draculaura' and for the first time in her life, Clawdeen feels like she has finally found a place where she fits in and can truly be herself, despite keeping her human half a secret.
"When a devious plan to destroy Monster High threatens to reveal her real identity, Clawdeen must learn to embrace her true feelings and find a way to save the day.
"...'Clawdeen Wolf', born half human and half werewolf, arrives at her new school, 'Monster High'. She quickly makes friends with her classmates 'Frankie Stein' and 'Draculaura' and for the first time in her life, Clawdeen feels like she has finally found a place where she fits in and can truly be herself, despite keeping her human half a secret.
"When a devious plan to destroy Monster High threatens to reveal her real identity, Clawdeen must learn to embrace her true feelings and find a way to save the day.
- 5/14/2022
- by Unknown
- SneakPeek
J.J. Abrams’ Bad Robot has signed on to produce the live-action adaptation of the iconic toy “Hot Wheels,” Mattel and Warner Bros. announced on Monday.
While plot details are still in their original packaging, the release notes that the film will feature “the world’s hottest and sleekest cars, monster trucks and motorcycles,” fitting for the 54-year-old toy brand. According to figures from the Npd Group retail tracking service, Hot Wheels is the number one selling toy in the world, moving more than 8 billion vehicles.
This project marks one of the first major film titles under Bad Robot’s production deal with Warner Bros., which runs through 2024, alongside “The Pinkerton” from screenwriter Daniel Casey, “Zatanna” from screenwriter Emerald Fennell, the untitled Superman movie from screenwriter Ta-Nehisi Coates, and the animated feature “Oh The Places You’ll Go!” with Jon M. Chu directing.
“Before Hot Wheels became the global household name it is today,...
While plot details are still in their original packaging, the release notes that the film will feature “the world’s hottest and sleekest cars, monster trucks and motorcycles,” fitting for the 54-year-old toy brand. According to figures from the Npd Group retail tracking service, Hot Wheels is the number one selling toy in the world, moving more than 8 billion vehicles.
This project marks one of the first major film titles under Bad Robot’s production deal with Warner Bros., which runs through 2024, alongside “The Pinkerton” from screenwriter Daniel Casey, “Zatanna” from screenwriter Emerald Fennell, the untitled Superman movie from screenwriter Ta-Nehisi Coates, and the animated feature “Oh The Places You’ll Go!” with Jon M. Chu directing.
“Before Hot Wheels became the global household name it is today,...
- 4/25/2022
- by Adam B. Vary
- Variety Film + TV
Mattel Films is teaming up with Warner Bros. Pictures once again to bring Hot Wheels to the big screen in a live-action film, the toy company announced Wednesday.
The iconic and timeless toy racing cars will speed into theaters in the second partnership between Mattel Films and the studio following the recent announcement of “Barbie,” starring and co-produced by Margot Robbie.
“We are excited to bring the thrill of a Hot Wheels live-action feature film to the big screen in partnership with Warner Bros. Pictures,” Ynon Kreiz, Mattel’s chairman and CEO, said in a statement. “Mattel Films has great momentum as it continues to execute on our commitment to bring global audiences new ways to experience the brands they love as we transform Mattel into an IP-driven, high-performing toy company.
The iconic and timeless toy racing cars will speed into theaters in the second partnership between Mattel Films and the studio following the recent announcement of “Barbie,” starring and co-produced by Margot Robbie.
“We are excited to bring the thrill of a Hot Wheels live-action feature film to the big screen in partnership with Warner Bros. Pictures,” Ynon Kreiz, Mattel’s chairman and CEO, said in a statement. “Mattel Films has great momentum as it continues to execute on our commitment to bring global audiences new ways to experience the brands they love as we transform Mattel into an IP-driven, high-performing toy company.
- 1/30/2019
- by Debbie Emery
- The Wrap
Thanks to a recent touring musical roadshow of "Monster High" and Mattel developing their own films in-house, there is renewed interest for Universal Pictures co-production of a live-action "Monster High" movie musical, with award-winning producers Craig Zadan and Neil Meron ("Chicago') co-directing:
The "Monster High" Fashion Line doll series, was created by writer Garrett Sander and illustrator Kellee Riley.
Zadan and Meron said that the new film would be "...'Beetlejuice' meets 'Grease' meets 'The Addams Family' meets 'Edward Scissorhands'..."
"Monster High", the first original toy franchise for Mattel since "Hot Wheels" in 1968, are fashion dolls, with clothing accessories, packaged as the children of famous monsters the likes of 'Dracula' and 'Frankenstein', with names like 'Draculaura', 'Frankie Stein', 'Clawdeen Wolf', 'Cleo de Nile and 'Lagoona Blue'.
The toy brand, introduced July 2010, includes a wide range of merchandise and entertainment. Products...
The "Monster High" Fashion Line doll series, was created by writer Garrett Sander and illustrator Kellee Riley.
Zadan and Meron said that the new film would be "...'Beetlejuice' meets 'Grease' meets 'The Addams Family' meets 'Edward Scissorhands'..."
"Monster High", the first original toy franchise for Mattel since "Hot Wheels" in 1968, are fashion dolls, with clothing accessories, packaged as the children of famous monsters the likes of 'Dracula' and 'Frankenstein', with names like 'Draculaura', 'Frankie Stein', 'Clawdeen Wolf', 'Cleo de Nile and 'Lagoona Blue'.
The toy brand, introduced July 2010, includes a wide range of merchandise and entertainment. Products...
- 12/29/2018
- by Michael Stevens
- SneakPeek
Media company Frederator Networks, which has produced hit animated shows like Bee and Puppycat, Bravest Warriors, and Netflix’s Castlevania, announced today that it has promoted Fullscreen alum Kenneth Ash, who’s been with Frederator for a year, to director of networks, social video strategies, and operations.
Ash was previously senior manager of Frederator’s YouTube-focused multichannel network, Channel Frederator Network. He has helped numerous large brands and companies, including Barbie, Hot Wheels, Syfy, The New York Times, and The Ad Council, develop their presences on YouTube.
Frederator has also onboarded and promoted several employees to the Channel Frederator Network team. That branch of Frederator is dedicated to helping its roster of more than 3,000 YouTube creators develop audiences and manage their content.
Visit Tubefilter for more great stories.
Ash was previously senior manager of Frederator’s YouTube-focused multichannel network, Channel Frederator Network. He has helped numerous large brands and companies, including Barbie, Hot Wheels, Syfy, The New York Times, and The Ad Council, develop their presences on YouTube.
Frederator has also onboarded and promoted several employees to the Channel Frederator Network team. That branch of Frederator is dedicated to helping its roster of more than 3,000 YouTube creators develop audiences and manage their content.
Visit Tubefilter for more great stories.
- 9/13/2018
- by James Loke Hale
- Tubefilter.com
The Toyman Toy Show in St. Louis has been going strong for almost 30 years now and just keeps getting bigger and better! The fun now takes place nine times a year at The Machinists Hall 12365 St Charles Rock Road in Bridgeton, Mo 63044. There are over 120 vendors at the Toyman Toy Show spread out over 220 tables. all selling vintage toys, comics, dolls, diecast cars, movie memorabilia, and more as well as cosplayers and artists. It’s an unbelievable amount of fun for only $5!
The next Toyman Show is this Sunday, August 5th from 9:00a to 3:00p and artist and actor Scott Schwartz, best known for known for his iconic role as Flick in A Christmas Story will be there!
Scott Schwartz was born in Sacramento, CA however he grew up in Sommerville & Brigewater, NJ. Attended Professional Children’s School in NY, 83/84 & 84/85. Stated in the biz March, 1977 Marion Adler of...
The next Toyman Show is this Sunday, August 5th from 9:00a to 3:00p and artist and actor Scott Schwartz, best known for known for his iconic role as Flick in A Christmas Story will be there!
Scott Schwartz was born in Sacramento, CA however he grew up in Sommerville & Brigewater, NJ. Attended Professional Children’s School in NY, 83/84 & 84/85. Stated in the biz March, 1977 Marion Adler of...
- 8/3/2018
- by Tom Stockman
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
The Toyman Toy Show in St. Louis has been going strong for almost 30 years now and just keeps getting bigger and better! The fun now takes place nine times a year at The Machinists Hall 12365 St Charles Rock Road in Bridgeton, Mo 63044. There are over 120 vendors at the Toyman Toy Show spread out over 220 tables. all selling vintage toys, comics, dolls, diecast cars, movie memorabilia, and more as well as cosplayers and artists. It’s an unbelievable amount of fun for only $5!
The next Toyman Show is this Sunday, July 8th from 9:00a to 3:00p and artist and animator Philo Barnhart, best known for known for his work on The Little Mermaid (1989), The Secret of Nimh(1982) and The Rescuers Down Under (1990) will be there!
Also, Comic Book Creator, Artist & Actor Charles D. Moisant will be on hand as well.
And I’ll be there handing out Free movie Swag!
The next Toyman Show is this Sunday, July 8th from 9:00a to 3:00p and artist and animator Philo Barnhart, best known for known for his work on The Little Mermaid (1989), The Secret of Nimh(1982) and The Rescuers Down Under (1990) will be there!
Also, Comic Book Creator, Artist & Actor Charles D. Moisant will be on hand as well.
And I’ll be there handing out Free movie Swag!
- 7/3/2018
- by Tom Stockman
- WeAreMovieGeeks.com
Justin Lin, the director behind The Fast and the Furious and Star Trek, has teamed up with Legendary Pictures for a live-action Hot Wheels movie starring Jeremy Renner. Although their first attempt at a live-action film, Max Steel, might have been a bit of a disaster, Mattel is still hoping that they can catch up […]...
- 8/2/2017
- by Edward Wallace
- Fortress of Solitude - Movie News
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