Crazy Rich Asians and Wicked director Jon M. Chu is set to helm the live-action Hot Wheels feature, the big screen take on Mattel’s iconic toy cars for Warner Bros.
The screenwriting duo of Juel Taylor and Tony Rettenmaier will pen the script, with J.J. Abrams’ Bad Robot Productions, which has longstanding ties with Warner Bros., and Chu’s Electric Somewhere producing.
The hiring of the director and writers is a major development for the project that originated with Warner teaming with Mattel Studios in January 2019 to develop and produce a big-screen project. The action film promises to bring the iconic Hot Wheels franchise to the movies screen.
“Jon’s ability to craft rich, elaborate worlds with a distinct point of view makes him the ideal storyteller to bring Hot Wheels to life. His films are visual spectacles — true eye candy — but what sets them apart is how he weaves unforgettable narratives within those stunning frames. Paired with Juel and Tony’s compelling storytelling, this team is uniquely positioned to capture the heart, adrenaline, and spirit of Hot Wheels, a leading brand in car culture.,” Robbie Brenner, president of Mattel Studios and chief content officer, said in a statement on Monday.
The collaboration between Warner Bros. and Mattel Studios follows the box-office success of the Greta Gerwig-directed Warner Bros. tentpole Barbie.
Chu added in his own statement: “Hot Wheels has always been about more than speed — it’s about imagination, connection and the thrill of play. Bringing that spirit to the big screen is an incredible opportunity. I’m excited to partner with Mattel Studios, Warner Bros. Pictures and Bad Robot to create an adventure that honors Hot Wheels’ legacy while driving it somewhere entirely new.”
Chu recently directed Universal Pictures’ Wicked starring Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande. He also directed In the Heights for Warner Bros.
The film’s producers — including Mattel as it looks to its toy properties to become a franchise-driven entertainment giant — have yet to lift the hood on the movie’s plotline. “We already felt incredibly lucky to collaborate with Mattel on this special film. Having Jon, Juel and Tony come aboard takes our excitement to a whole new level,” said Abrams in his own statement.
Taylor and Rettenmaier have worked on projects like Creed II and They Cloned Tyrone, which marked Taylor’s directorial debut. Brenner is producing for Mattel Studios alongside Chu, Abrams and Michael Bostick.
