In an unexpected turn of events, a live-action movie based on the iconic toy store, Toys "R" Us, is currently in development. According to Variety, the creative force behind this project is Story Kitchen, the same team that brought us recent video game movie adaptations like the Sonic the Hedgehog films. Their vision is to encapsulate the essence of childhood wonder through a thrilling, modern adventure that pays homage to the Toys 'R' Us brand, which has been a cornerstone in the toy industry for over 70 years.
“Toys 'R' Us is a cultural touchstone that continues impacting the child in all of us today,” stated Story Kitchen co-founders Dmitri M. Johnson and Mike Goldberg. “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 movie draws inspiration from beloved films like Night at the Museum, Back to the Future, and Big, as well as successful toy-to-movie franchises such as Barbie. While specifics about the cast remain under wraps, Johnson, Goldberg, Timothy I. Stevenson, and Elena Sandoval are set to produce for Story Kitchen, alongside Kim Miller Olko, who will produce for Toys "R" Us Studios.
“As Toys "R" Us first film, this project is an exciting opportunity to bring the magic of our brand to the big screen,” said Miller Olko, president of Toys "R" Us Studios. “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.”
Last year, Story Kitchen announced a film adaptation of Square Enix's Just Cause, with Blue Beetle director Ángel Manuel Soto on board. The company is also working on adaptations of Dredge: The Movie, Kingmakers, and Sleeping Dogs, showcasing their commitment to bringing diverse and engaging stories to the screen.