In an unexpected turn of events, a live-action Toys "R" Us movie is in development, promising to encapsulate the essence of childhood wonder. According to Variety, the production is being spearheaded by Story Kitchen, the powerhouse behind recent video game adaptations like the Sonic the Hedgehog films. Their goal is to create a modern, fast-paced adventure that taps into the rich 70-year history of the Toys 'R' Us brand, resonating with fans across generations.
“Toys 'R' Us is a cultural touchstone that continues impacting the child in all of us today,” remarked Story Kitchen co-founders Dmitri M. Johnson and Mike Goldberg. As avid '80s kids who cherished their visits to Toys 'R' Us, they expressed their honor in partnering to craft a film that embodies the spirit of adventure, creativity, and nostalgia synonymous with the brand.
Somehow Toys 'R' Us returned. Photo by Artur Widak/NurPhoto via Getty Images.
Drawing inspiration from beloved films like Night at the Museum, Back to the Future, and Big, as well as successful toy-to-movie franchises such as Barbie, this upcoming movie aims to captivate audiences. While specific casting details remain under wraps, the film will be produced by Johnson, Goldberg, Timothy I. Stevenson, and Elena Sandoval of Story Kitchen, alongside Kim Miller Olko of 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,” stated Miller Olko, president of Toys "R" Us Studios. She highlighted the film’s aim to evoke the boundless sense of wonder that defines Toys "R" Us, promising a narrative filled with imagination, adventure, and joy for kids of all ages.
Story Kitchen, known for its ambitious projects, also announced last year a film adaptation of Square Enix's Just Cause, directed by Ángel Manuel Soto of Blue Beetle fame. Additionally, they are adapting Dredge: The Movie, Kingmakers, and Sleeping Dogs, showcasing their expansive reach in the film industry.
