Skydance and Mattel have announced plans to develop the Matchbox real-world, die-cast toy vehicle line into a live-action motion picture. 

“For nearly 70 years, Matchbox has carried enormous cultural relevance and inspired generations of kids to unleash their imaginations, combining what they see in the world every day with what they dream their own world to be,” says Robbie Brenner, executive producer, Mattel Films. “We look forward to working with our incredible partners at Skydance Media to craft a story for the big screen that evokes the same, imaginative spirit of this beloved Mattel franchise and delights fans of all ages.” 

“We are thrilled to be working with Robbie Brenner and her amazing creative team at Mattel,” says Don Granger, president, feature films, Skydance. “Pairing Skydance’s unique brand of premium, elevated action-adventure entertainment with the incredible legacy of the Matchbox brand is a fantastic opportunity. There is a shared experience for everyone who has played with a Matchbox vehicle or playset, where they create their own inventive action sequence and we’re excited to craft a worldwide adventure film worthy of such imagination.” 

The Matchbox brand was invented in 1953 by automotive expert and enthusiast, Jack Odell, to solve a challenge for his daughter, who was allowed to take a toy to school only if it was small enough to fit in a matchbox. When his daughter’s school friends began clamoring for a “matchbox car,” the brand was born. The high standards of authenticity for Matchbox die-cast cars have driven the brand for nearly 70 years. One Matchbox car is sold every second. 

For Mattel Films, the Matchbox project will be led by Elizabeth Bassin, vice president, and Andrew Scannell, creative executive. David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, Don Granger and Aimee Rivera will oversee for Skydance Media.  

In addition to Matchbox, the Mattel Films development slate features movies for American Girl, Barney, Hot Wheels, Magic 8 Ball, Major Matt Mason, Masters of the Universe, Polly Pocket, Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots, Thomas & Friends, UNO, View-Master and Wishbone. Mattel Films is also developing “Christmas Balloon,” a holiday family drama based on all-new IP. As License Global previously reported, a live-action Barbie movie is currently in production. 

Mattel is exhibiting at Brand Licensing Europe 2022. Find out more info here.