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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.

While some of the best games on Ps Plus have been removed in previous months, more and more incredible titles are added to the service, ensuring that players always have something to look forward to. From critically acclaimed indies to popular triple-a games, there is something for everyone. Luckily, December 2024's PlayStation Plus lineup continues this tradition, bringing a diverse range of titles for subscribers to enjoy.

Last Chance For These November 2024 Games Ghostwire Tokyo...

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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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.

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.

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,...

Margot Robbie to produce the Monopoly for Lionsgate and Hasbro. The development of the Monopoly movie began in 2008. Robbie's involvement may lead to more Barbie comparisons, setting high expectations.

Margot Robbie is set to produce the Monopoly movie for Lionsgate and Hasbro. Robbie is most recently known for working with Mattel in producing and starring in the hit Warner Bros. feature Barbie. Barbie was the highest-grossing movie of 2023, and scored several Oscar nominations, including a win for Best Original Song for the hit tune “What Was I Made For?”

As revealed at CinemaCon, Robbie will now be producing the Monopoly movie.

Breaking: Margot Robbie and Hasbro are making Monopoly for Lionsgate. #CinemaCon — Screen Rant (@screenrant) April 10, 2024

This film is co-produced by Lionsgate and Hasbro.

The Impact of Adding Margot Robbie to Monopoly

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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...

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...

Mattel is developing an American Girl movie following the success of the Barbie film. Mattel has 45 movies in development based on their toys, including Hot Wheels and Barney. The American Girl movie needs to learn the right lessons from Barbie's success by having a strong director and cast.

Mattel is officially moving forward with an American Girl movie. Even before Barbie was released in theaters on July 21, Mattel was already developing many more movies based on their beloved toy brands, including Hot Wheels, Magic 8 Ball, Matchbox, Major Matt Mason, Masters of the Universe, Polly Pocket, and more. The American Girl line started during the late 1980s featuring dolls that represent different periods of American history, such as the 19th-century farm girl Kirsten, the turn-of-the-century Samantha, and the World War II-era Molly.

Now, following Barbie's $1.4 billion success, Mattel is officially developing its next doll movie, though it's not Barbie 2. According to The Hollywood Reporter,...

Margot Robbie expresses doubts about a potential Barbie 2, stating that they didn't plan the first movie to be a trilogy. Robbie acknowledges that they put everything into the first movie, with co-writer/director Greta Gerwig giving it her all. The actor is unsure about what could happen in a sequel, implying that they haven't considered or planned for one.

As the first movie awaits its chances in awards season, Margot Robbie has a disappointing update on a potential Barbie 2. Based on the Mattel doll of the same name, the comedy proved to be the surprise smash hit of 2023, setting multiple box office records, including the highest-grossing movie of the year thus far, as well as Warner Bros.' highest-grossing movie ever and the highest-grossing from a solo female director. Since its success, including beating out Oppenheimer in the viral Barbenheimer box office battle, talks have swirled about a potential sequel.

J.J. Abrams' Constantine TV show has been scrapped by Max, as many other Dcu projects are put on hold during the reboot process led by James Gunn and Peter Safran. Four scripts were written for the Constantine series, and Abrams had even spoken to an actor for the lead role, but the project has now been canceled. Fortunately, there is another Constantine project in development, a sequel to the 2005 film starring Keanu Reeves, which will be part of the Elseworlds label in DC Studios.

It seems that another of the projects that J.J. Abrams was developing exclusively for Max has been scrapped. The director, producer and writer was actively working on a Constantine TV show, but it seems like it won't be seeing the light of day.

With the Dcu undergoing a reboot process led by James Gunn and Peter Safran, many projects that were in the pipeline have been put on hold.

Mattel continues to feed off the Kenergy from the billion-dollar success of the Barbie movie as the toymaking company confirms big sales boosts thanks to its record-breaking theatrical run.

Per CNBC, Mattel reported a 16% increase in revenues during its third quarter, significantly outperforming Wall Street projections. Thanks in part to Barbie's box-office success, Mattel earned $1.08 per share compared to the 86 cents it was expected to make. Additionally, Mattel made $1.92 billion during its Q3 -- $8 million more than predicted. For the period ending on Sept. 30, Mattel reported a $146 million profit.

Mattel's Reaction to Barbie Movie's Digs Revealed by CEO

Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz hailed Barbie in a Q3 earning statement and credited the film's momentum for helping to jumpstart company profits. "Our results benefited from the success of the Barbie movie, which became a global cultural sensation, and marked a key milestone for Mattel," he said. The first theatrical project released by Mattel Films,...

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...

Mattel wasn't painted in the most flattering light in Greta Gerwig's Barbie movie, but it wasn't an issue for the famous toy company.

In Barbie, Mattel's team of executives was depicted when the titular doll (played by Margot Robbie) leaves Barbie Land and arrives at Mattel's headquarters. She's shocked to discover that the company's leadership consists entirely of men, led by an aloof CEO (Will Ferrell). During a recent chat with Semafor, real-life Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz commented on Barbie's digs taken at the company, revealing how they didn't have a problem with it because of the faith they had in Gerwig's vision.

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"Embrace self-deprecation. It wasn’t just about bashing Mattel; it was part of this great narrative and interpretation of Barbie’s universe," Kreiz said. On allowing Gerwig to include the jokes she wanted,...

Director Martin Scorsese believes that the simultaneous release of Barbie and Oppenheimer created a unique "perfect storm" that had a significant impact on cinema. Despite not having seen the films, Scorsese respects the creative teams behind Barbie and Oppenheimer, including Chris Nolan and Margot Robbie. Scorsese sees the success of these two very different films working together as a hopeful sign for the emergence of a different kind of cinema, separate from the franchise-dominated landscape of the past 20 years.

Director Martin Scorsese debates whether Barbie and Oppenheimer helped revive cinema. Both released on July 21, Barbie and Oppenheimer’s simultaneous release was the biggest film event of 2023. Coined “Barbenheimer,” the concurrent release was helpful for both films; Barbie became the top grossing film of the year, coming in at a $1.4 billion gross, whereas Oppenheimer boasts a still-impressive $939 million worldwide box office gross.

Related: Why It Took Oppenheimer 6 Weeks To Beat Barbie...

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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.

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,...

Though the major critical and commercial success of the Barbie movie has put Mattel on the map within the film industry, the toy-making company's CEO Ynon Kreiz says the acclaimed fantasy comedy is just the beginning of a long-term strategy.

Speaking with Variety, Kreiz delved into Mattel's upcoming media strategy as the company plans several more live-action projects after Barbie, including films and TV series. While Kreiz is grateful for the Barbie movie and its record-breaking success, Mattel isn't going to ride the film's coattails as the company has long mapped out its strategy to attain further acclaim in filmmaking. “The Barbie movie clearly is a big milestone and one that you can’t not see and appreciate,” Kreiz said. “But we have been consistently systematically and methodically executing our strategy even before the Barbie movie came out.”

Related: Why the Barbie Movie Opted to Use Live-Action Instead of Animation...

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,...

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...

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...

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 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...

Barbie's success at the box office has set the stage for a whole universe of new projects from Mattel, according to the company's CEO. While not all future projects may be as big or successful as Barbie, Mattel plans to take the same approach to create culturally resonant projects. Mattel already has 15 brand adaptations in development, and is eyeing upwards of 45 movies and TV shows for the future, including a potential Barbie sequel.

Having recently surpassed a few more box office records ahead of its digital release, Barbie's success is set to launch a whole universe of projects, as teased by Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz. Led by Margot Robbie and exploring the eponymous doll traveling to the real world with Ryan Gosling's Ken after suffering an existential crisis, the movie has reigned as one of the buzziest titles of 2023. Garnering widespread acclaim for its meta humor and...

Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz describes reading the Barbie script as a "crazy ride" and praises its uniqueness, depth, and imaginative qualities. Kreiz's positive reaction to the script indicates confidence in the toy-based movie and the possibility of a Barbie sequel. Despite uncertainty about a potential sequel from director Greta Gerwig, Mattel is actively developing other toy-based content, including Polly Pocket, American Girl, and Hot Wheels movies.

Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz reveals his first reaction to the Barbie script. Barbie’s script was co-written by director Greta Gerwig and her partner and creative collaborator Noah Baumbach. As the movie received critical and audience acclaim, the movie has been praised for its mixture of clever phrases (like Ken’s Mojo Dojo Casa House) and its societal commentary about feminism. Now the highest-grossing film of 2023, Barbie continues its dominance as it breaks more box office records.

Recently, in an interview with The New York Times,...

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,...

Hot Wheels, a successful toy brand since 1978, is now getting its own movie with producer JJ Abrams on board. Mattel and Warner Bros. are looking for a director for the Hot Wheels movie and have high hopes for its success. Despite limited details about the story or cast, JJ Abrams plans to make the Hot Wheels movie "emotional and grounded and gritty," bringing a fresh perspective to the toy-based film genre.

When classic games and toys like Battleship and Barbie get their own movies, it certainly seems like any toy is fair game, and now, there is Hot Wheels movie news on the way too. Movies that are based around a toy or game without any kind of built-in mythology can be tricky, but some have pulled it off. Clue and Trolls are two great (and very different examples). While Clue is a satire, Trolls is an animated musical, and both have incredibly devoted audiences.

Barbie's success at the box office is being misinterpreted by movie studios, who are greenlighting more toy-based films instead of prioritizing movies about women with feminist themes. Hollywood should focus on making more movies by and about women. Movie studios have failed to learn from the success of past female-led blockbusters like Wonder Woman and Captain Marvel. Despite their high earnings, there is still a lack of female-centric films in the MCU and Dcu. The success of Barbie cannot be attributed solely to the toy brand. The movie's exploration of mother-daughter relationships and its empowering narrative contributed to its popularity.

Barbie has become a huge financial success for Warner Bros., but Hollywood movie studios have completely misunderstood that success, and two other movies prove it. After a huge marketing campaign that doesn't seem to be slowing down, Barbie has become one of the biggest films of the year. The film...