MOVIE NEWS – Mattel and Warner Bros. Pictures have revealed that acclaimed director Jon M. Chu (Wicked) will helm the first live-action film based on the legendary Hot Wheels toy cars.

The world’s best-selling toy cars, Hot Wheels, are speeding onto the big screen with their first live-action adaptation, bringing not just action and velocity, but the spirit of creativity, connection, and pure play that defines generations of fans. “Hot Wheels has always been about more than speed—it’s about imagination, connection, and the thrill of play,” says Jon M. Chu. “To bring that spirit to the screen is an incredible opportunity. I’m excited to create an adventure that honors Hot Wheels’ legacy while turning it into something new.”

Chu’s most recent project, Wicked (starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande), grossed over $700 million worldwide and became the most successful Broadway adaptation in US cinema history.

This Hot Wheels film marks the first time Warner Bros. has united its two major partners—Bad Robot and Mattel—on a single project. Bad Robot has been a creative force with Warner Bros. for nearly two decades, and Mattel Studios previously partnered with Warner Bros. on Barbie, 2023’s highest-grossing film and the studio’s all-time box office champion, with over 450 award nominations including eight Oscars.

“Jon’s remarkable talent for building rich, detailed worlds from his unique perspective makes him the perfect storyteller to bring Hot Wheels to the big screen,” adds Robbie Brenner, Mattel’s Head of Content. “His films are visual spectacles, but what truly makes them special is the unforgettable stories Jon weaves into every frame.”

With two Oscar nominations to her name, Robbie Brenner leads Mattel Studios’ mission to bring iconic Mattel brands to cinemas with top-tier productions, promising audiences around the world memorable new entertainment—Hot Wheels included.

Source: Circana/Retail Tracking Service/G10 (Australia, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Mexico, Spain, UK, US)/ Jan–June 2024 / All Toys / USD estimate