In a surprising turn of events, a live-action movie based on the iconic toy store Toys "R" Us is in the works, as reported by Variety. Story Kitchen, the powerhouse behind recent video game adaptations such as the Sonic the Hedgehog movies, aims to encapsulate the essence of childhood wonder in a thrilling, modern adventure. This project will celebrate the Toys 'R' Us brand's legacy, which spans over 70 years in the toy industry.
“Toys 'R' Us is a cultural touchstone that continues impacting the child in all of us today,” stated Story Kitchen co-founders Dmitri M. Johnson and Mike Goldberg. “As '80s kids who considered Toys 'R' Us one of the most magical places on Earth, we’re honored to partner to create a film that will capture the spirit of adventure, creativity, and nostalgia that Toys 'R' Us represents.”
Drawing inspiration from beloved films like Night at the Museum, Back to the Future, and Big, as well as successful toy-to-movie franchises like Barbie, the Toys "R" Us movie promises a unique blend of adventure and nostalgia. While specifics about the cast remain under wraps, Johnson, Goldberg, Timothy I. Stevenson, and Elena Sandoval will produce for Story Kitchen, joined by Kim Miller Olko from Toys "R" Us Studios.
“As Toys 'R' Us' first film, this project is an exciting opportunity to bring the magic of our brand to the big screen,” said Miller Olko, president of Toys "R" Us Studios. “It will be a journey as boundless as play itself, evoking the electric sense of wonder that is the essence of Toys 'R' Us. This story will capture the imagination, adventure, and joy that has made Toys 'R' Us a destination for kids of all ages.”
Story Kitchen's track record is impressive, having recently announced a film adaptation of Square Enix's Just Cause, with Blue Beetle director Ángel Manuel Soto at the helm. They are also working on adaptations of Dredge: The Movie, Kingmakers, and Sleeping Dogs, showcasing their commitment to bringing beloved games and brands to the big screen.
