With the long-gestating Masters of the Universe live-action reboot seemingly stuck in development hell, Sony has now turned its attention to another popular Mattel toy line, with Deadline revealing that the studio is pushing full steam ahead on a Barbie movie. The script for the adaptation is being written by Jenny Bicks (What a Girl Wants), with Sony looking to fast-track the film into production before the end of the year.
“Barbie has entertained children and inspired their imagination and creativity for more than 50 years,” said Tim Kilpin, Mattel’s EVP of Global Brands. “Now is the right time in Barbie’s celebrated history for her to star in a live-action, contemporary comedy that brings her playful personality to life for generations of fans.”
Naturally Sony is eyeing a franchise from the $3 billion a year brand, and is planning a contemporary take where the character of Barbie uses “her personal and professional skills to step into the lives of others and improve them, almost like a modern-day Mary Poppins.” The studio is said to be looking to discover a young actress for the lead role and surround her with a young cast on multi-picture deals, similar to how Marvel Studios has tied up the main players in the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Originally published April 24, 2014. Updated April 15, 2018.
