Could the forthcoming “MCU” embody the Mattel Cinematic Universe? In the wake of “Barbie” attaining the most substantial domestic opening weekend of 2023, amassing an approximate $155 million in the United States and Canada, Mattel Films is ardently eager to metamorphose its extensive toy line into cinematic brilliance. MGM’s “Polly Pocket” – featuring Lily Collins as the micro-doll – is currently in the throes of development, with the esteemed creator of “Girls,” Lena Dunham, lending her talents to both writing and directing.
In 2018, Mattel brought Ynon Kreiz aboard as the new chief executive, envisioning a Mattel empire on the silver screen, and with the monumental success of “Barbie,” the skies appear boundless with potential.
According to Variety, numerous exciting ventures are in the works, boasting A-listers’ involvement. “Barney,” “Thomas and Friends,” “American Girl,” and “Polly Pocket” are among the few, with potential “Barbie” sequels not being ruled out either.
“The triumph of movies lays the groundwork for more movies,” the CEO informed the outlet. “Our aspiration is to forge cinematic franchises.”
Robbie Brenner, the Oscar-nominated producer leading the charge at Mattel Films, expressed her optimism to Variety, hoping that “Barbie” would prove its mettle, thereby opening the door for prospective sequels within the Barbie universe. Toy lines like “Masters of the Universe” and “Hot Wheels” are also central to Brenner’s vision for the future of Mattel Films – possibly becoming the bedrock of franchise gold. ”
That’s the dream – for it to endure perpetually and bestow a continuous boon,” Brenner expounded. “Yet, in this contemporary era, the primary aim is to get the inaugural creation impeccably right.” Brenner further confirmed the existence of a “Polly Pocket” script, praising it as a “magnificent” script.
“Primarily, they are two of my most esteemed women ever,” Brenner articulated to the outlet, referring to Collins and Dunham. “This collaboration has been astounding. Lena’s willingness to cooperate and immerse herself in constructive criticism is commendable. She’s truly remarkable. Lily’s intellect, specificity, and prowess in production are exceptional. It has been an extraordinary partnership, and we are eagerly looking forward to bringing it to fruition in the foreseeable future.”
The iconic lavender dinosaur, Barney, is also set for a cinematic outing, with the backing of producer Daniel Kaluuya, renowned for his role in the horror sensation “Get Out.”
Mattel has described “Barney” as an “A24-type” of “surrealistic” film. Brenner hinted to the outlet, “I cannot definitively say it will be darker, but it will assuredly be distinctive – akin to the essence of ‘Being John Malkovich’ or ‘Adaptation.'”
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