Believe it or not, a live-action Toys "R" Us movie is currently in development. According to Variety, Story Kitchen—the powerhouse behind recent video game movie adaptations like the Sonic the Hedgehog films—is set to bring this iconic brand to life on the big screen. Their goal? To encapsulate the magic of childhood in a thrilling, modern adventure that honors Toys 'R' Us's legacy over its 70-year history in the toy industry.
“Toys 'R' Us is a cultural touchstone that continues impacting the child in all of us today,” said 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.”
The movie draws 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. While specific casting details remain under wraps, Johnson, Goldberg, Timothy I. Stevenson, and Elena Sandoval will produce for Story Kitchen, with Kim Miller Olko producing for 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.”
Last year, Story Kitchen announced a film adaptation of Square Enix's Just Cause, with Blue Beetle director Ángel Manuel Soto signed on. They are also working on adaptations of Dredge: The Movie, Kingmakers, and Sleeping Dogs, showcasing their commitment to bringing diverse and engaging stories to the screen.
