There’s a New MCU in Town as Mattel Readies Multiple Upcoming Films After Success of Barbie
After dominating the box office and breaking records with Barbie, Mattel has officially arrived in Hollywood.
Mattel Execs on Next Hollywood Moves: 'Barney,' 'Polly Pocket' and 'Barbie' Sequels (EXCLUSIVE) https://t.co/n36B6pQnxO
- Variety (@Variety) July 26, 2023
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, Hot Wheels, Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots, UNO 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.” But after the Margot Robbie-starring hot pink fantasia has grossed an astonishing $380 million worldwide in its first five days in theaters, it’s a safe bet that Mattel and Warner Bros. will want more.
A film based on Polly Pocket has just been confirmed to be directed by Lena Dunham and star Lily Collins.
ONTD, is Mattel the next Marvel?
Source
Mattel Execs on Next Hollywood Moves: 'Barney,' 'Polly Pocket' and 'Barbie' Sequels (EXCLUSIVE) https://t.co/n36B6pQnxO
- Variety (@Variety) July 26, 2023
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, Hot Wheels, Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots, UNO 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.” But after the Margot Robbie-starring hot pink fantasia has grossed an astonishing $380 million worldwide in its first five days in theaters, it’s a safe bet that Mattel and Warner Bros. will want more.
A film based on Polly Pocket has just been confirmed to be directed by Lena Dunham and star Lily Collins.
ONTD, is Mattel the next Marvel?
Source