In an unexpected twist that has caught the attention of nostalgia enthusiasts and moviegoers alike, a live-action Toys "R" Us movie is currently in development. According to Variety, Story Kitchen—the creative force behind recent video game movie adaptations such as the Sonic the Hedgehog series—is set to bring this iconic toy brand to life on the big screen. Their goal is to encapsulate the essence of childhood wonder through a modern, fast-paced adventure, leveraging the Toys 'R' Us brand's enduring relevance over its 70-year history in the toy industry.
“Toys 'R' Us is a cultural touchstone that continues impacting the child in all of us today,” remarked 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.”
Somehow Toys 'R' Us returned. Photo by Artur Widak/NurPhoto via Getty Images.
The film draws inspiration from classics like Night at the Museum, Back to the Future, and Big, alongside successful toy-to-movie transitions such as Barbie. While specific casting details remain under wraps, Johnson, Goldberg, Timothy I. Stevenson, and Elena Sandoval are set to produce for Story Kitchen, with Kim Miller Olko producing 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,” stated 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.”
Story Kitchen has been busy expanding its portfolio, having announced last year a film adaptation of Square Enix's Just Cause, directed by Blue Beetle's Ángel Manuel Soto. The company is also working on adaptations of Dredge: The Movie, Kingmakers, and Sleeping Dogs. This upcoming Toys "R" Us film promises to be a thrilling addition to their diverse lineup, tapping into the universal appeal of childhood nostalgia and the joy of play.
