Here's a sentence I never imagined writing: A live-action Toys "R" Us movie is officially in development.
According to Variety, Story Kitchen — the production company behind numerous recent video game adaptations including the Sonic the Hedgehog films — aims to "capture childhood wonder through a contemporary, high-energy adventure that leverages Toys 'R' Us' 70-year legacy in the toy industry."
"Toys 'R' Us remains a cultural icon that still sparks joy in people of all ages," stated Story Kitchen co-founders Dmitri M. Johnson and Mike Goldberg. "As '80s kids who viewed Toys 'R' Us as a magical wonderland, we're thrilled to develop a film embodying the adventure, creativity and nostalgic spirit the brand represents."
The film draws inspiration from Night at the Museum, Back to the Future, and Big, along with successful toy-based franchises like Barbie. While casting remains unannounced, Johnson, Goldberg, Timothy I. Stevenson and Elena Sandoval will produce for Story Kitchen alongside Kim Miller Olko from Toys "R" Us Studios.
"As our brand's first cinematic venture, this project wonderfully captures the Toys "R" Us magic," said Miller Olko, president of Toys "R" Us Studios. "It promises a limitless adventure that reflects the wonder and excitement our stores have delivered for generations - a story celebrating the imagination and joy that made Toys "R" Us beloved worldwide."
Story Kitchen recently announced a Just Cause adaptation with Blue Beetle director Ángel Manuel Soto, along with upcoming projects including Dredge: The Movie, Kingmakers, and Sleeping Dogs.
