In an unexpected turn of events, a live-action Toys "R" Us movie is currently in development, promising to encapsulate the magic and nostalgia of this iconic brand. According to Variety, the project is being spearheaded by Story Kitchen, the creative force behind recent video game movie adaptations like the Sonic the Hedgehog series. Their goal is to craft a "modern, fast-paced adventure" that celebrates Toys 'R' Us's enduring relevance over its 70-year history in the toy industry.
Dmitri M. Johnson and Mike Goldberg, co-founders of Story Kitchen, shared their excitement about the project, stating, “Toys 'R' Us is a cultural touchstone that continues impacting the child in all of us today. 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 film draws inspiration from beloved movies like Night at the Museum, Back to the Future, and Big, as well as successful toy-to-movie crossovers 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.
Miller Olko, president of Toys "R" Us Studios, expressed her enthusiasm for the project, saying, “As Toys 'R' Us first film, this project is an exciting opportunity to bring the magic of our brand to the big screen. 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.”
Story Kitchen's recent ventures include the announced film adaptation of Square Enix's Just Cause, directed by Ángel Manuel Soto of Blue Beetle fame, alongside other projects like Dredge: The Movie, Kingmakers, and Sleeping Dogs.