In an unexpected turn of events, a live-action movie inspired by the iconic toy store, Toys "R" Us, is currently in development. As reported by Variety, the creative minds at Story Kitchen, who have brought us recent hits like the Sonic the Hedgehog movies, are set to capture the essence of childhood wonder through a modern, fast-paced adventure. This project aims to celebrate the Toys 'R' Us brand, which has been a significant part of 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 Dmitri M. Johnson and Mike Goldberg, co-founders of Story Kitchen. “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 beloved movies like Night at the Museum, Back to the Future, and Big, as well as successful toy-to-movie franchises such as Barbie. While specific casting details remain under wraps, the production team includes Johnson, Goldberg, Timothy I. Stevenson, and Elena Sandoval from Story Kitchen, alongside Kim Miller Olko from 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.”
Story Kitchen has been busy with other projects as well. Last year, they announced a film adaptation of Square Enix's Just Cause, directed by Ángel Manuel Soto of Blue Beetle fame. Additionally, they are working on adaptations of Dredge: The Movie, Kingmakers, and Sleeping Dogs.