It's a sentence I never imagined writing: a live-action Toys "R" Us movie is officially in development.
Variety reports that Story Kitchen — the creative force behind nearly every recent video game movie adaptation, such as the Sonic the Hedgehog films — aims to "capture the essence of childhood wonder through a modern, fast-paced adventure that draws on the Toys 'R' Us brand’s 70-year legacy in the toy industry."
“Toys 'R' Us remains a cultural touchstone that resonates with the inner child in everyone,” noted Story Kitchen co-founders Dmitri M. Johnson and Mike Goldberg. “As children of the '80s who viewed Toys 'R' Us as one of the most enchanting destinations, we’re thrilled to collaborate on a film that embodies the adventure, creativity, and nostalgia the brand represents.”
The film draws inspiration from titles like Night at the Museum, Back to the Future, and Big, alongside toy-based movie franchises such as Barbie. While casting details remain under wraps, Johnson, Goldberg, Timothy I. Stevenson, and Elena Sandoval will produce for Story Kitchen, alongside Kim Miller Olko representing Toys "R" Us Studios.
“As the inaugural Toys "R" Us film, this project presents a thrilling chance to translate our brand’s magic to cinema,” said Miller Olko, president of Toys "R" Us Studios. “It will be an adventure as limitless as play itself, channeling the electric sense of awe that defines Toys "R" Us. This narrative will capture the imagination, thrill, and delight that have made Toys "R" Us a beloved haven for generations.”
Last year, Story Kitchen revealed plans for a film adaptation of Square Enix's Just Cause, with Blue Beetle director Ángel Manuel Soto attached. The studio is also developing adaptations of Dredge: The Movie, Kingmakers, and Sleeping Dogs.
