If you ever imagined that a live-action Toys "R" Us movie was possible, well, your dreams are about to come true. According to Variety, the masterminds behind the recent wave of video game adaptations, Story Kitchen, are aiming to blend childhood nostalgia with a modern adventure that reflects the iconic toy store's legacy spanning over seven decades.
“Toys 'R' Us remains a cultural phenomenon that resonates with everyone who has ever been a kid,” remarked Dmitri M. Johnson and Mike Goldberg, co-founders of Story Kitchen. “Growing up, Toys 'R' Us was nothing short of magical to us, and we’re thrilled to collaborate on a film that encapsulates the thrill, creativity, and timeless charm associated with this beloved brand.”
A nostalgic return to Toys 'R' Us. Photo by Artur Widak/NurPhoto via Getty Images.
Described as a mix between Night at the Museum, Back to the Future, and Big, along with other toy-inspired franchises like Barbie, the movie promises a story steeped in wonder and adventure. While casting details remain under wraps, the production team includes Dmitri M. Johnson, Mike Goldberg, Timothy I. Stevenson, and Elena Sandoval for Story Kitchen, alongside Kim Miller Olko, who leads the charge for Toys "R" Us Studios.
“This marks the first-ever feature film from Toys "R" Us, and it’s an incredible chance to bring the enchantment of our brand to theaters worldwide,” noted Kim Miller Olko, president of Toys "R" Us Studios. “The film will celebrate the boundless energy and joy synonymous with Toys "R" Us, offering audiences a tale that captures the imagination and brings families together.”
In addition to the Toys "R" Us project, Story Kitchen has also announced adaptations of Square Enix's Just Cause, Blue Beetle, Dredge: The Movie, Kingmakers, and Sleeping Dogs. It seems the studio is diving headfirst into the world of family-friendly entertainment, bringing beloved brands and franchises to life on the silver screen.