Press release
Mattel Films and Marc Forster’s 2Dux² Partner to Develop “Thomas & Friends®” Feature Film
Marc Forster to direct the four-quadrant family adventure that blends live-action and animation “Thomas & Friends” marks the tenth Mattel Films project in
About this update from Mattel, Inc.
[{"type":"text","content":"\n\nMarc Forster to direct the four-quadrant family adventure that blends live-action and animation\n\n\n“Thomas & Friends” marks the tenth Mattel Films project in development\n\n\n EL SEGUNDO, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--\nMattel, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAT) and production company 2Dux² announced today plans to develop a feature film based on Thomas & Friends®, the global franchise about the iconic blue engine. Mattel Films and 2Dux² will bring Thomas & Friends to life through a four-quadrant family adventure that blends live-action and animation.\nThis press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20201006005440/en/\nMattel Films will co-produce the film alongside Marc Forster (“Christopher Robin,” “World War Z,” “Monster's Ball”), who will also direct, and Renée Wolfe (“Christopher Robin,” “All I See Is You”), co-founder and co-CEO of 2Dux². Alyssa Hill (“A Taste of Power”) and Jesse Wigutow (“TRON3” - upcoming) have penned the script. Robbie Brenner, executive producer, and Kevin McKeon, supervising producer, will lead the project for Mattel Films.\n\n“Thomas is a beloved global franchise that focuses on the importance of friendship, a theme that resonates deeply with children and parents around the world,” said Brenner. “Marc is an incredible storyteller and I look forward to partnering with him to tell Thomas’ story in a modern and unexpected way.”\n\n“Thomas has been a personal favorite of mine since childhood,” said Forster. “I couldn’t be more excited to be working with Robbie and the entire team at Mattel, and embarking on this beautiful journey with such a timeless property.”\n\nThomas & Friends, celebrating its 75th anniversary this year, introduces children to the world around them through the wonder and awe of trains. Thomas was first created in 1945 by Rev. W. Awdry in stories for his son, Christopher. Today, the character is just as beloved by children as he was when he first chugged down the tracks. Thomas’ stories are currently told through the “Thomas & Friends” television series (now in its 24th season), toys, books, apps and more.\n\n“Thomas & Friends” joins other Mattel Films projects in development including films based on American Girl®, Barbie®, Barney®, Hot Wheels®, Magic 8 Ball®, Major Matt Mason®, Masters of the Universe®, View Master® and Wishbone™.\n\nAlys...