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Mattel Films and Blumhouse Productions will produce a live-action feature adapting the "mystic, fortune-telling fun" of the 'Magic 8-Ball', to be directed by Jeff Wadlow ("Kick-Ass 2"):

"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...."

"As fans of Mattel and their iconic brands, we're looking forward to bringing 'Magic 8 Ball', one of their most celebrated toys, to life..." said Blumhouse. "We look forward to partnering with Mattel Films to put this project on the fast track to the big screen and create a memorable experience for moviegoers."

Mattel...

How do you follow a phenomenon like “Barbie?” That was the task put in front of Robbie Brenner, President of Mattel Studios and Chief Content Officer in the wake of the $1.4 billion-grossing, Oscar-winning feminist blockbuster that served as the opening salvo for the Mattel Studios brand.

Brenner joined the company in 2018, and at first it seemed like a surprising fit. Brenner had cut her teeth working for Miramax in the 1990s, later serving executive roles at 20th Century Fox and Relativity and producing indies like “Dallas Buyers Club.” Perhaps it’s exactly that foundation that spurred Brenner to enthusiastically hire Greta Gerwig to co-write and direct “Barbie” – and, crucially, to give Gerwig the freedom to make something truly unique.

“For me, I feel like if we’re not trying to raise the bar on every single movie that we’re doing, if we’re not doing something that feels unexpected...

Two of the all-time greatest summer movies celebrated milestone anniversaries this year. Jaws turned 50 on June 20 and Back to the Future hit 40 on July 3.

With San Diego Comic-Con, the epicenter of fandom, only days away, the pop-culture industrial complex is in overdrive, cranking out exclusive merch that will be available at the expo for the lucky attendees and, should supplies last, for quick-draw fans online. Of course, there are Jaws and Back to the Future offerings aplenty to mark their respective birthdays.

But nothing is cooler than the custom anniversary-edition sets created for Comic-Con by the toy wizards at Mattel's Hot Wheels.

The 50th annivesary Jaws set features a detailed model of Quint's Orca, complete with Chief Brody and his chum bucket, as well as the titular toothy shark, packaged in a note-perfect vintage-style box that doubles as a diorama.

That scene is the first time we come...

Two years after Warner Bros.’ “Barbie” became the highest grossing film of 2023, Mattel Studios announced Thursday it will produce an animated film based on their famed doll with Illumination that will be released by Universal Pictures.

The project will be the first theatrically released animated “Barbie” film after years of straight-to-video animated movies. It also marks Illumination’s second project based around an outside IP after it set a studio record with the $1.36 billion “Super Mario Bros. Movie” with Nintendo in 2023. A sequel to that film is set for release next year.

The “Barbie” deal comes a month after Mattel combined its film and television production divisions into Mattel Studios under the leadership of Robbie Brenner. The studio will release a film adaptation of “Masters of the Universe” with Amazon MGM in June 2026 and has a slew of other productions in development including “Matchbox” starring John Cena and “Hot Wheels...

Barbie was a tremendous success upon its release in 2023, beating even generous predictions. The film made over $1.4 billion, becoming the highest-grossing movie during the year of its release. The film also did really well among critics and was nominated for multiple Oscars.

In response, Mattel has accelerated production on multiple toy-based movies. At this point, some of them are coming sooner rather than later. The Masters of the Universe live-action movie, for example, already has a star-studded main cast attached and is slated for release on June 5, 2026.

That is far from the only toy-based movie being made by Mattel in the upcoming years. The company is also working on Barney and Thomas the Tank Engine movies, and has confirmed films based on View-Master, American Girl, and Hot Wheels. Now, another major company has confirmed its development of another toy-based film. This time, it will be based on a franchise that already has significant existing success.

Ariana Grande and Josh Gad will lend their melodic voices to the film adaptation of “Oh, The Places You’ll Go.”

Based on the Dr. Seuss classic, the animated musical will be directed by “Wicked” filmmaker Jon M. Chu and Jill Culton. Warner Bros. will release the movie on March 17, 2028.

Plot details haven’t been revealed, so it’s unclear how the film will take inspiration from the beloved picture book. “Oh, The Places You’ll Go!” revolves around a young adventurer navigating the ups and downs of life and offers inspirational messages to readers like, “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself any direction you choose.” With those platitudes, the book has become a popular gift for graduates or anyone at an inflection point.

Benj Pasek and Justin Paul, the duo behind “Dear Evan Hansen” and “The Greatest Showman,” are writing...

Exploring Bruno Mars’ Romantic Relationship(Photo Credit –Instagram)

Bruno Mars is one of the most loved R&b artists from the 2010s. Songs like Grenade, Talking to the Moon, Versace on the Floor, and Just the Way You Are catapulted him to global fame, eventually earning him Grammys. The singer has not shied from projecting his romantic side in his songs, which makes one wonder if the singer is truly a romantic in real life as well. We know he has a special someone he has been dating for almost a decade. But is the musician married? Let’s take a look at Bruno Mars’ real-life romance.

Exploring Bruno Mars’ Romantic Life: Who Is Jessica Caban?

Bruno Mars has reportedly been dating Jessica Caban since 2011. He has been largely private about his love life. However, he has certainly mentioned and answered questions about it on occasion. Jessica began her career...

What Did Freddie Prince Jr. Say About Reuniting With Jennifer Love Hewitt For I Know What You Did Last Summer Sequel? (Photo Credit – Instagram)

The upcoming I Know What You Did Last Summer sequel would mark the highly anticipated reunion of Og stars Freddie Prinze Jr. and Jennifer Love Hewitt, nearly three decades after the release of the first film of the same name.

Freddie reprises his role as Ray Robinson in the new installment, while Jennifer is also back as Julie James. The duo played the same characters in the 1997 blockbuster slasher, also titled I Know What You Did Last Summer. Ahead of the release of the new film, Freddie Prinze Jr. opened up about reuniting with his co-star for the sequel. Continue scrolling to know what he said!

Ray Bronson: “It’s 1997 all over again.”

Julie James: “This is worse.”

Freddie Prinze Jr. & Jennifer Love Hewitt return for...

Justin Bieber Once Battled Depression & Drug Abuse—Here’s Why He Abruptly Ended His Purpose Tour (Photo Credit – Instagram)

Justin Bieber is one of the most popular pop stars in Hollywood, boasting a massive fan base across the globe. The singer has always been quite vocal about mental health issues and never dismissed the realities of it. Being a celebrity is not an easy task; often, fame and the continuous spotlight have a significant impact on mental health. And Bieber has always made his health a priority over his career.

In September 2022, the singer mentioned that he was going to take a break from touring for his Justice World Tour as the shows had taken a toll on his health, and he wanted to rest and get better. He had cancelled this tour several times after getting diagnosed with Ramsay Hunt Syndrome (Rhs), facial paralysis. This was not the first...

Is Mattel’s Hot Wheels Movie Moving Forward With Director Jon M. Chu?(Photo Credit –Instagram)

Barbie, starring Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, was everywhere when it was released in July 2023. The Greta Gerwig-directed film was a smash success, and two years ago, the blockbuster raked in not just critical appreciation or praise but also box office collections in billions across the world.

Mattel is making sure to cash in on the same pattern, and the company has announced a live-action Hot Wheels film to ensure the same. The movie is set to be directed by Wicked director John M. Chu. Here’s everything we know about the upcoming fun live-action film, including what to expect.

The live-action ‘Hot Wheels’ movie is moving forward at Warner Bros.

Jon M. Chu is set to direct the film.

(Source: Deadline) pic.twitter.com/7WSQsmKmjW

— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) July 7, 2025

Hot Wheels Live Action:...

Following the massive success of Barbie, Mattel and Warner Bros. Pictures are once again teaming up to bring another iconic toy brand to life. A live-action Hot Wheels movie is officially in development, with Wicked director Jon M. Chu set to helm the high-octane project. Announced Monday, July 7, the film marks another high-profile collaboration between Mattel and Bad Robot Productions…

Source...

Mattel's upcoming live-action "Hot Wheels" movie, to be directed by Jon M Chu, adapts a 6-issue DC Comics' title based on Mattel's "Hot Wheels" die cast cars, led by ‘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...

Jon M. Chu is bringing his Oscar pedigree to the toy racetrack.

As Barbie proved under Greta Gerwig's direction, Mattel’s iconic toys can be reimagined into both box-office hits and awards contenders. Barbie earned eight Oscar nominations, including Best Picture, and grossed more than $1.4 billion worldwide. Now, Mattel is hoping to replicate that success — this time with its popular toy cars and a new film.

Cho's Wicked earned 10 Academy Award nominations, including Best Picture. The highly anticipated sequel, Wicked: For Good, will hit theaters Nov. 21. Although Chu was not nominated for Best Director at the Oscars, he did receive the honor at the Critics’ Choice Awards and the National Board of Review.

The Hot Wheels script will come from screenwriters Juel Taylor and Tony Rettenmaier, known for their work on Creed II and They Cloned Tyrone. The film will be produced by J.J. Abrams’ Bad Robot and Chu’s Electric Somewhere,...

Jon M. Chu is set to direct a live-action Hot Wheels movie.The 45-year-old filmmaker has been hired to direct the live-action movie for Mattel and Warner Bros. Pictures.Robbie Brenner, the president and chief content officer of Mattel Studios, said in statement given to Deadline: "Jon’s ability to craft rich, elaborate worlds with a distinct point of view makes him the ideal storyteller to bring Hot Wheels to life. His films are visual spectacles — true eye candy — but what sets them apart is how he weaves unforgettable narratives within those stunning frames. "Paired with Juel and Tony’s compelling storytelling, this team is uniquely positioned to capture the heart, adrenaline, and spirit of Hot Wheels, a leading brand in car culture."Jon is thrilled to be working on the live-action Hot Wheels movie.The director is also "excited to partner with Mattel Studios" on the project.He said:...

Jon M. Chu is taking on another major production!

The Wicked director will direct the live-action Hot Wheels movie, based on the iconic Mattel toy cars, THR reported Monday (July 7).

The Crazy Rich Asians filmmaker will direct based off a screenplay by Juel Taylor and Tony Rettenmaier, with J.J. Abrams’ Bad Robot Productions attached to produce.

Keep reading to find out more…

The project began with Warner Bros. and Mattel Studios back in January 2019.

“Jon’s ability to craft rich, elaborate worlds with a distinct point of view makes him the ideal storyteller to bring Hot Wheels to life. His films are visual spectacles — true eye candy — but what sets them apart is how he weaves unforgettable narratives within those stunning frames. Paired with Juel and Tony’s compelling storytelling, this team is uniquely positioned to capture the heart, adrenaline, and spirit of Hot Wheels, a leading brand in car culture.

Crazy Rich Asians and Wicked director Jon M. Chu is set to helm the live-action Hot Wheels feature, the big screen take on Mattel’s iconic toy cars for Warner Bros.

The screenwriting duo of Juel Taylor and Tony Rettenmaier will pen the script, with J.J. Abrams’ Bad Robot Productions, which has longstanding ties with Warner Bros., and Chu’s Electric Somewhere producing.

The hiring of the director and writers is a major development for the project that originated with Warner teaming with Mattel Studios in January 2019 to develop and produce a big-screen project. The action film promises to bring the iconic Hot Wheels franchise to the movies screen.

“Jon’s ability to craft rich, elaborate worlds with a distinct point of view makes him the ideal storyteller to bring Hot Wheels to life. His films are visual spectacles — true eye candy — but what sets them apart is how...

Mattel and Warner Bros. Pictures today announced that acclaimed director Jon M. Chu will direct the live-action Hot Wheels feature film based on Mattel’s legendary and timeless toy car. Writing partners Juel Taylor and Tony Rettenmaier will pen the script.

Inspired by the best-selling toy, the high-octane action film will bring the beloved, multi-generational Hot Wheels franchise to life, showcasing some of the world’s most iconic and sleek vehicles. J.J. Abrams’s Bad Robot Productions and Chu’s Electric Somewhere will produce the film.

Wicked photo courtesy of Universal Pictures

Robbie Brenner, President of Mattel Studios and Chief Content Officer, said: “Jon’s ability to craft rich, elaborate worlds with a distinct point of view makes him the ideal storyteller to bring Hot Wheels to life. His films are visual spectacles—true eye candy—but what sets them apart is how he weaves unforgettable narratives within those stunning frames.

Wicked franchise director Jon M. Chu has signed on to helm Hot Wheels for Mattel and Warner Bros based on the popular toy car line.

Juel Taylor and Tony Rettenmaier will co-write the screenplay after collaborating on They Cloned Tyrone (Taylor’s credits include Creed II), while J.J. Abrams’ Bad Robot Productions and Chu’s Electric Somewhere are producing.

Mattel Studios president and chief content officer Robbie Brenner is producing alongside Chu, Abrams, and Michael Bostick. Arturo Thur de Koós is overseeing for Mattel Studios, with Sheila Walcott and Zach Hamby leading for Warner Bros. Pictures, Jon Cohen for Bad Robot,...

Jon M. Chu is trading the Wicked Witch of the West for some toy cars. Warner Bros. and Mattel have jointly announced that the Wicked filmmaker will direct the live-action Hot Wheels movie.

Additionally, Creed II and They Clone Tyrone writing duo Juel Taylor and Tony Rettenmaier have been tapped to write the screenplay for Hot Wheels. While plot details remain under wraps, "the high-octane action film will bring the beloved, multi-generational Hot Wheels franchise to life, showcasing some of the world’s hottest and sleekest vehicles," per an official press release. Warner Bros. and Mattel have been trying to bring Hot Wheels to the big screen since 2019, with J.J. Abrams joining the project in 2022 as a producer via Bad Robot.

"Jon’s ability to craft rich, elaborate worlds with a distinct point of view makes him the ideal storyteller to bring Hot Wheels to life. His films are visual...

The Hot Wheels live-action movie is officially moving forward. Hot Wheels toys were first released in May 1968. For years, they were a major competitor to the Matchbox cars and are still being sold as toys today.

There have been multiple previous adaptations of the Hot Wheels toy franchise. This started as early as 1969, with a TV series called Hot Wheels. There have then been several iterations of this franchise for subsequent generations, including the recent Netflix series Hot Wheels Let's Race.

As per Variety, the Hot Wheels live-action movie is officially moving forward in development. In the biggest development yet, the film will bedirected by Jon M. Chu. It will be based on the Mattel toys and produced by Warner Bros. The press release says the film will feature "some of the world’s hottest and sleekest vehicles."

Specific plot details have not been revealed for the movie yet. The...

Jon M. Chu is putting the pedal to the metal.

The director of “Crazy Rich Asians” and both “Wicked” films will be helming a live-action “Hot Wheels” movie from Mattel, Warner Bros. and Bad Robot. Writing partners Juel Taylor and Tony Rettenmaier will pen the script for the movie, which is based on the toy line. Chu’s Electric Somewhere is also producing.

“Jon’s ability to craft rich, elaborate worlds with a distinct point of view makes him the ideal storyteller to bring Hot Wheels to life,” Robbie Brenner, chief content officer for Mattel, said in a Monday statement. “His films are visual spectacles — true eye candy — but what sets them apart is how he weaves unforgettable narratives within those stunning frames. Paired with Juel and Tony’s compelling storytelling, this team is uniquely positioned to capture the heart, adrenaline and spirit of Hot Wheels, a leading brand in car culture.

After he leaves Oz, “Wicked” filmmaker Jon M. Chu is putting the pedal to the metal. He is set to direct a live-action “Hot Wheels” movie for Warner Bros.

Based on the Mattel toy, the high-octane action film will showcase “some of the world’s hottest and sleekest vehicles,” according to a press release. Plot details haven’t been revealed. But ever since “Barbie” captured the zeitgeist and grossed a mammoth $1.44 billion, Mattel has been mining all kinds of children’s toys for the big screen. Film versions of Barney, Polly Pocket, the card game Uno and Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots are currently in the works.

“Hot Wheels has always been about more than speed — it’s about imagination, connection, and the thrill of play,” Chu said in a statement. “Bringing that spirit to the big screen is an incredible opportunity. I’m excited to […] create an adventure that...

Exclusive: After seeing Wicked soar to 10 Oscar nominations and a worldwide gross exceeding $756 million, and with the back half of the two-part musical coming up for release in November, Jon M. Chu has inked a deal to direct a live-action Hot Wheels movie for Mattel and Warner Bros Pictures.

Juel Taylor & Tony Rettenmaier, a writer-director duo whose credits include Creed II and They Cloned Tyrone, have been tapped to pen the script, with J.J. Abrams’ Bad Robot and Chu’s Electric Somewhere producing. Robbie Brenner will produce for Mattel Studios alongside Chu, Abrams and Michael Bostick, with Arturo Thur de Koós overseeing for Mattel Studios. Sheila Walcott and Zach Hamby are overseeing for Warner Bros, along with Jon Cohen for Bad Robot and Jane Lee for Electric Somewhere.

Related: Amazon MGM Studios In Talks To Acquire Hot Video Game Package ‘Split Fiction’ Teaming Jon M. Chu & Sydney Sweeney

Hot Wheels...

You're gonna need a bigger shelf for what Mattel is bringing to this year's San Diego Comic-Con. The toy giant will once again have a significant presence at the San Diego Convention Center, featuring a booth filled with new collectibles for attendees to pick up during the annual pop culture event. Among the items on offer will be two high-quality die-cast vehicles from Hot Wheels that honor two of Universal Pictures' cinematic classics on their anniversaries — Back to the Future and Jaws. The DeLorean will be speeding in just in time to celebrate 40 years since Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox) went back in time, while the Orca will set sail for the 50th anniversary of Steven Spielberg's shark thriller, both coming in display-worthy boxes commemorating their most iconic scenes.

The Back to the Future anniversary set whisks viewers back to the DeLorean's cinematic debut when Doc Brown (Christopher Lloyd) unveils the plutonium-powered time machine.

CoComelon is making a big move.

The beloved preschool TV show, which has been with Netflix since 2020, will be leaving the streamer after it decided not to renew its CoComelon license.

The Hollywood Reporter reports that Disney+ has picked up the show, starting in 2027.

Keep reading to find out more…

Sources told the outlet that Netflix chose not to renew its CoComelon license due to a decline in viewership, and that despite airing four new seasons in 2024, the preschool series’ viewership “declined by nearly 60 percent from 2023 H1 to 2024 H2,” according to the streamer’s semi-annual reports.

Netflix will continue to exclusively stream its spinoff Cocomelon Lane, as well as Blippi.

Kids and family programming viewership represents 15% of the streamer’s total viewing, with shows like Sesame Street, Ms. Rachel Peppa Pig, Care Bears and Hot Wheels Let’s Race.

CoComelon is set in the fictional town of Cocomelon, and follows...

Last month, Robbie Brenner and a team of Mattel executives made the trek to the Sundance Film Festival. For five days, they braved thin mountain air to get a sense of the emerging filmmakers who they could enlist to make movies and shows based on Mattel’s line of toys — a collection of childhood favorites that runs the gamut from Hot Wheels to Thomas the Tank Engine to He-Man.

“Sundance is where the future is,” says Brenner, who serves as president of Mattel Films. “We’re trying to get in on the ground floor with these great artists before they become the next Christopher Nolan.”

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The Transformers are known for being robots in disguise, with their typical alternate modes being cars and similar vehicles. Now, the latest form they're taking are two classic cars associated with another toy line.

Via TFW2005, recently revealed at a toy show, the upcoming Hot Wheels x Transformers figures are more than meets the eye like never before. Based on two cars from the line's history, these new toys are stylish to the max, sporting fresh chrome with a clean sheen. While an exact release date and price point have yet to be revealed, the Transformers franchise is about to learn that it's not the same without the flame.

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Ayo Edebiri has signed on to write a new live-action Barney film, and is in talks to star in the project as well.

The film will be produced by A24 and Daniel Kaluuya’s 59% productions, along with Mattel Films, who recently developed Barbie. Per Variety, Kaluuya will serve as an executive producer but will not star in the film, and plot details remain unknown.

The project was first announced in 2019, nine years after Barney & Friends wrapped its original 14 season run. Mattel’s Robbie Brenner expressed excitement to have Kaluuya in the fold, saying that the studio could take a “completely new approach to Barney that will surprise audiences and subvert expectations.”

Back in 2023, the film was rumored to have an “A24-type” approach with a “surrealist” edge, but Mattel have since backtracked on the claim. Mattel is also behind the new CGI reboot of Barney that arrived on Max in...

Momentum is gaining on A24’s live-action Barney movie from Mattel Films and Daniel Kaluuya’s 59% Productions, as the companies have set Emmy and Golden Globe winner Ayo Edebiri to write the screenplay and also have her in talks to star.

First announced in 2019, the film’s plot is being kept under wraps. Kevin McKeon and Andrew Scannell are overseeing for Mattel Films, with Robbie Brenner producing for Mattel, along with A24, as well as Kaluuya and Rowan Riley for 59% Productions.

A purple dinosaur who has been a staple of children’s television for decades, Barney was first introduced to the world via direct-to-video series Barney & the Backyard Gang in 1988, breaking out as a global sensation with the series Barney & Friends, which aired for 14 seasons on PBS between 1992 and 2010.

In a July 2023 interview with The New Yorker, Mattel exec Kevin McKeon revealed that the live-action Barnie would be adult-oriented and “surrealistic,...

Fast and Furious and Riddick star Vin Diesel has his sights set on another heavy-hitting action franchise, with the actor taking to social media to tease his role in the upcoming adaptation of the classic toy game Rock 'Em Sock 'Em Robots. First announced back in 2021, the Rock 'Em Sock 'Em Robots movie will see Mattel Films team up with Universal Pictures and Vin Diesel's One Race Films for this live-action adaptation of the beloved toy, which finds players taking control of two dueling robot boxers and smashing buttons until one of their heads comes off.

While it doesn’t initially seem like Rock 'Em Sock 'Em Robots has the depth needed for a movie, it’s likely that the adaptation will be akin to something like the 2011 sci-fi action outing, Real Steel. It is not yet known whether Vin Diesel will play a human or a robot in the movie,...

Following the world-famous live-action film, popular American manga publisher Tokyopop has announced a manga-style graphic novel adaptation of Mattel's Barbie, alongside the toy company's Hot Wheels franchise.

Via X (formerly Twitter), Tokyopop announced a publishing partnership with Mattel Inc., the manufacturer of Barbie, for new manga-style graphic novels for children aged 8-12. Hot Wheels will also receive an adaptation, with both targeting a print release in 2026. Readers can check out the official announcement below.

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Mattel's Barbie & Hot Wheels Get New 'Manga-Style Graphic Novels' in 2026 We’re excited to share our publishing partnership with Mattel, Inc., a leading global toy and family entertainment company known for its iconic brand portfolio!With this exciting partnership,...

Tokyopop and Mattel are teaming up to release new manga-style graphic novels based on Barbie and Hot Wheels. These stories, aimed at kids aged 8-12, will debut in 2026 and bring fresh artwork and original adventures for fans of both iconic brands.

Ryan Ferguson, Mattel’s Global Head of Publishing, shared his excitement about the collaboration:

Hot Wheels and Barbie have long been symbols of storytelling, creativity and inspiration, engaging audiences across generations. We are thrilled to partner with Tokyopop and expand these iconic franchises through captivating stories, bringing new adventures to fans.

Marc Visnick, COO and Publisher at Tokyopop, added:

Hot Wheels and Barbie are two of the world’s most adored toy and entertainment brands, and we are excited to partner with Mattel to develop and publish new original manga-style graphic novels. Tokyopop’s catalog is renowned for bestselling titles featuring notable characters for readers of all ages. Adding...

Jaeden Martell, the birthday boy who turns 22 today is literal proof that Hollywood loves a multi-talented underdog. Born in Philadelphia and first stealing the spotlight in a Hot Wheels commercial, he swapped his last name Lieberher for Martell, his mom’s maiden name, a slick rebranding move that screams leading man.

And you probably remember him as Bill Denbrough rallying the Losers’ Club in It or the keyboard-tapping, chaos-causing Jacob Thrombey in Knives Out. But trust us, there’s more to Martell than iconic horror flicks and quirky mystery roles.

Jaeden Martell in Mr. Harrigan’s Phone (Credits- Netflix)

Did you know he kicked off his acting journey alongside Bill Murray in St. Vincent? Talk about starting strong. Also, his Korean heritage comes from his grandma, making him one of Hollywood’s rising stars with global roots. Honestly, Martell’s knack for jumping from horror to comedy and even darker...

The Chinese ‘Year of the Snake’, beginning January 29, 2025 symbolizing traits of intuition and strategy, is also a year of past world-shattering events, including ‘The Great Depression’ (1929), ‘Pearl Harbor’ (1941) and ‘9/11’ (2001). Now, looking into the future, Mattel Films and Blumhouse Productions will produce a live-action feature adapting the "mystic, fortune-telling fun" of the 'Magic 8-Ball' toy, to be directed by Jeff Wadlow ("Kick-Ass 2"):

"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...."

"As fans of Mattel and their iconic brands, we're looking forward to bringing 'Magic 8 Ball', one of their most celebrated toys, to life..." said Blumhouse. "We look forward to partnering with Mattel Films to put this project on the fast track to the big screen and create a memorable experience for moviegoers."

Mattel Films also produced “Barbie" with Margot Robbie's LuckyChap,...

December 2024's PlayStation Plus lineup has been revealed and it is an impressive one. Like every month, a handful of free games are handed out to those who subscribe to at least the PlayStation Plus Essential tier, while Extra and Premium subscribers get access to a larger catalog of streamable and downloadable titles. December is bringing three new games to Essential users as well as some much-beloved iconic PS2 platformers to the Premium Classics Catalog.

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Mattel Films and Blumhouse Productions will produce a live-action feature adapting the "mystic, fortune-telling fun" of the 'Magic 8-Ball', to be directed by Jeff Wadlow ("Kick-Ass 2"):

"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...."

"As fans of Mattel and their iconic brands, we're looking forward to bringing 'Magic 8 Ball', one of their most celebrated toys, to life..." said Blumhouse. "We look forward to partnering with Mattel Films to put this project on the fast track to the big screen and create a memorable experience for moviegoers."

Mattel Films is also developing "Barbie" with Margot Robbie's LuckyChap, "Hot Wheels", "Masters of the Universe", "American Girl" and "View Master".

"Magic 8 Ball" was invented in 1946 by Albert Carter, son of a clairvoyant, who marketed and sold the device with Abe...

For many of us who grew up playing with Hot Wheels cars, monster trucks have long held a grip on our imaginations. Massive machines that smash or crush nearly anything in their paths—even today, something about their ferocious power tugs at our inner childlike sense of wonder. This new game from 3D Clouds and GameMill Entertainment understands that thrill, aiming to transport us straight to the monster-sized action.

Hot Wheels Monster Trucks: Stunt Mayhem lets players get behind the wheel of true icons, from the sharp-toothed Tiger Shark to the rugged Bone Shaker. With the push of a virtual button, its colossal engines roar, ready to launch off ridiculous ramps that no real track could contain. Over the top arena courses invite destruction on a grand scale, with loops, crushing constructs, and more mayhem around every colorful corner.

But stunts remain the core draw. Gigantic backflips through smoke and sparks,...

The Ats Team has tapped Workerbee’s Nicola Griffiths as SVP of production.

Griffiths, who was previously head of production at Workerbee, will be based between the production company and production services provider’s U.S., U.K. and Portuguese offices, reporting to The Ats Team’s managing director and COO Danny Sanz.

With expertise in securing tax credits, international distributions and managing budgets of up to £6 million, her focus will be supercharging Ats’s slate of original IP and developing international formats alongside development and production exec Shayna Waldman.

At Workerbee Griffiths was responsible for high-end unscripted programming including NBC’s “Hot Wheels,” Netflix’s “Bear Hunt” and Channel 4/HBO Max series “The Bridge.”

As well as working on its own IP, Ats is investing in its line production services, thanks to an extensive network of international TV production crews across North America, Southeast Asia, Europe and Australia, who...

Hot Wheels are back in the latest video game based on the enduring brand of tiny toy cars: Hot Wheels Monster Trucks: Stunt Mayhem. This is less of a racing game and more of a demolition derby, in which players are rewarded for pulling off death-defying stunts and smashing through the competition in a series of toy-inspired arenas. It's a lot more like Tony Hawk's Pro Skater than it is like Mattel's previous game, Hot Wheels Unleashed, with emphasis on impressive tricks and lengthy combos.

Game modes include a single-player career, head-to-head local multiplayer, crushingly brutal boss battles, and arcade challenges that let players test their skills. Players can also select their favorite Hot Wheels monster trucks from a roster of 20, including Bone Shaker, Big Foot, Rhinomite, and Tiger Shark. Hot Wheels Monster Trucks: Stunt Mayhem is available for a variety of different platforms, in various different editions,...

As it rolls out new animated series “Barney’s World” on Max and Cartoon Network and prepares a live-action “Barney” movie with Daniel Kaluuya, Mattel will be driving into live action non-pre school premium TV series to grow its brands and properties, Josh Silverman, Mattel’s chief franchise officer, announced on Sunday at his MipJunior leadership keynote at Cannes, entitled Beyond the Toybox: Shaping the Future of Play.

Silverman also confirmed the Netflix release date of “Thomas & Friends: The Christmas Letter Express” one-hour holiday special as Nov. 21 in the U.S. Global launches will be made across a bouquet of broadcast and streaming platforms including Milkshake! on Channel 5 and Nick Jr. in the U.K. and Cartoonito in Italy.

“We always done a really nice job on the kids animation side. We’ve had some some great offerings on the unscripted side,” Silverman told Variety.

“One area that we’re...

Dwayne Johnson's schedule in Hollywood only gets busier. The acclaimed actor is set for a mystery feature-length project that will see him collaborate with established filmmaker and producer J.J. Abrams.

Via his Instagram page, Johnson teased the undisclosed movie which will see him join forces with Abrams and acclaimed screenwriter Zak Penn, best known for his work on the X-Men franchise, multiple Marvel Cinematic Universe entries and Free Guy. Johnson posted an image of himself dining with Abrams and Penn, claiming "this one is gonna be fun," and signing off by saying "...tonight...it comes to life."

View this post on InstagramA post shared by Dwayne Johnson (@therock)

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Following the astronomical success of Greta Gerwig’s Barbie, Mattel and Sony are eyeing their next toy-related project: a film bringing the classic View-Master into the spotlight.

According to a statement from Mattel Films, the View-Master movie will be a live-action family adventure story. Escape Artists, the production company behind movies like The Pursuit of Happyness and Fences, is set to produce.

“View-Master has long been a window to the wonders of the world, sparking imagination in kids and adults alike,” said Todd Black, one of the Escape Artists producers on board. “Teaming up with Mattel Films gives us the chance to honor that legacy while creating an entirely new adventure for today’s audience. We can’t wait to bring this treasured toy’s sense of exploration to the big screen.”

2023’s Barbie, which starred Margot Robbie and Ryan Gosling, made over a billion dollars at the box office...

Sony Pictures and Masters of the Universe producer Escape Artists are developing a live-action film based on another Mattel toy line: View-Master, the 3D image reel viewer that was first introduced in 1939.

The logline is under wraps, but the companies on Wednesday in a release called the pic a “four-quadrant family adventure film.”

Escape Artists’ Todd Black, Jason Blumenthal, Steve Tisch and Tony Shaw are producing. Kevin McKeon and Arturo Thur de Koós are overseeing for Mattel Films.

“View-Master has long been a window to the wonders of the world, sparking imagination in kids and adults alike,” said Black. “Teaming up with Robbie Brenner and Mattel Films gives us the chance to honor that legacy while creating an entirely new adventure for today’s audience. We can’t wait to bring this treasured toy’s sense of exploration to the big screen.”

A View-Master film has been percolating for a while,...

Despite being unperceivable to the human eye, John Cena can't escape starring in major movie franchises, this time for a classic toy line getting an unusual live-action adaptation. Mattel, which is currently combing through its extensive list of IPs for movie projects after Barbie broke box-office records, is setting up a film based on the Matchbox miniature toy car set. Cena will have a leading role in the movie, which is set to be directed by one of the best modern action filmmakers working today.

Mattel has announced (via The Hollywood Reporter) that John Cena is attached to star in their Matchbox film, based on the iconic toy line of the same name. Apple Original Films acquired the big-budget project, set to be helmed by Sam Hargrave, who directed Netflix's action-packed Extraction films starring Chris Hemsworth. Matchbox is written by screenwriter Jonathan Tropper, who is currently set to write...

Following the success of the billion-dollar live-action Barbie movie, it appears Mattel wants to build on its acclaim with a different feature-length take on its most famous doll. A new report claims the toymaking company is considering telling Barbie's story in the animated world.

According to Puck, Mattel is engaged in talks with Illumination, the company known for franchises such as Despicable Me and Minions, about potentially making a Barbie animated movie. Mattel holds Barbie's animation rights, allowing them to make an animated film with Illumination without affecting any plans for a potential live-action sequel with Warner Bros.

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However, the key players in the live-action Barbie movie don't seem enthused about the animated version. The report claims...

Long after Barbie's record-setting box office run, fans still have plenty of Kenergy left as buzz lingers about a potential Ken film. Director Greta Gerwig isn't ruling out making a movie centered around the beach-loving character, with Ryan Gosling reprising his acclaimed role.

In an interview with 60 Minutes, Gerwig reflected on Barbie's success and addressed the love fans have expressed for Gosling's portrayal of Ken in the billion-dollar blockbuster. Gerwig stayed coy about the potential follow-up film but left open the possibility, smiling and saying "I mean, the truth is, you know I guess we'll see."

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Gosling's performance as Ken was one of the most celebrated aspects of Barbie following its release last summer, starring as the...

We’re getting more episodes of The Toys That Made Us! An announcement was made during San Diego Coic-Con that the popular Netflix docuseries would be returning for two additional seasons. Tttmu fed the appetites of fans who grew up collecting everything from Barbie and He-Man to Hello Kitty and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Each episode brought nostalgic goodness through origin stories told in such a unique and entertaining way. The winning formula of Brian Volk-Weiss and The Nacelle Company led to offshoots like The Movies That Made Us and other programs including Icons Unearthed. It’s hard to believe it has been almost five years since Season 3 dropped. And ever since Volk-Weiss has been asked if or when the show was coming back. Fast forward to the recent news that he is doubling down with topics tackled including Ghostbusters, Hot Wheels, Fast Food Toys, Pokemon, Polly Pocket, Super Hero Toys,...

The single-player campaign of Hot Wheels Unleashed cannot be beaten until you unlock all nine secrets hidden within the various races you compete in. Finding everything this game has to offer will help you reach the game's ending and earn a special reward for your efforts. While some goals are tied to individual races, others are discovered by following different events in the story.

Unveiling each secret in the game and completing every objective in the campaign will unlock a secret car in Hot Wheels Unleashed called the Oldsmobile 442. This vehicle is extremely versatile, with nearly maxed-out stats in every category that defines the cars you can drive. The Oldsmobile 442 boasts 4 bars of Braking Power, 5 bars of Acceleration, 3 bars of Handling, and 4 bars of Boost.

The speed of the Oldsmobile 442 outshines even some of the rarest cars in the game. To check out this ultra-rare vehicle in action, check out...

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...

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.