With Jon M. Chu wrapping up on the two-part Wicked films this fall, the director has set his sights on his next project after the musical adaptation concludes with the live-action Hot Wheels film from Warner Bros. and Bad Robot.
Hot Wheels is described as “an action film, inspired by Mattel’s bestselling toy car line, which will showcase some of the world’s hottest and sleekest vehicles.” The script has been written by duo Juel Taylor and Tony Rettenmaier (Creed II) with Chu producing through his Electric Somewhere banner, J.J. Abrams for Bad Robot and Robbie Benner for Mattel Studios.
“Hot Wheels has always been about more than speed — it’s about imagination, connection and the thrill of play. Bringing that spirit to the big screen is an incredible opportunity,” Chu said on his new directing gig. “I’m excited to partner with Mattel Studios, Warner Bros. Pictures, and Bad Robot to create an adventure that honors Hot Wheels’ legacy while driving it somewhere entirely new.”
“We already felt incredibly lucky to collaborate with Mattel on this special film. Having Jon, Juel and Tony come aboard takes our excitement to a whole new level,” said Abrams.
“Jon’s ability to craft rich, elaborate worlds with a distinct point of view makes him the ideal storyteller to bring Hot Wheels to life,” said Benner. “His films are visual spectacles — true eye candy — but what sets them apart is how he weaves unforgettable narratives within those stunning frames. Paired with Juel and Tony’s compelling storytelling, this team is uniquely positioned to capture the heart, adrenaline, and spirit of Hot Wheels, a leading brand in car culture.”
“Jon is a visionary director and an incredible partner to Warner Bros,” WB’s President of Development and Production Jesse Ehrman. “We are thrilled to have him join us, along with the talented writing duo of Juel and Tony. With our collaborators at Bad Robot and Mattel Studios, we can’t wait to bring Hot Wheels to life on the big screen.”
Chu has plenty on his plate without the anticipated release of Wicked: For Good, which is scheduled for release on November 21st. Chu will executive produce a Crazy Rich Asians TV series for HBO Max which will be connected to his 2018 adaptation. He is also attached to direct an adaptation of the video game Split Fiction starring Sydney Sweeney as well as Oh, The Places You’ll Go for a March 2028 release.
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