Thomas the Tank Engine is making a return to the big screen in a new feature being developed by Mattel Films and Marc Forster’s production company 2Dux².
The new project, to be co-produced and directed by the World War Z and Quantum of Solace filmmaker, will be a mix of live-action and animation based on the popuar kids’ franchises which has spanned TV and toys.
Renée Wolfe, co-founder and co-CEO of 2Dux² will also produce. Alyssa Hill (A Taste of Power) and Jesse Wigutow (upcoming Tron3) TRON3” – upcoming) have wrote the script. Robbie Brenner, executive producer, and Kevin McKeon, supervising producer, will lead the project for Mattel Films.
“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.”
“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.”
Thomas & Friends is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. Thomas was first created in 1945 by Rev. W. Awdry in stories for his son, Christopher. The TV series is now in its 24th season. The previous Thomas the Tank Engine movie, Thomas and the Magic Railroad, grossed close to $20M WW twenty years ago.
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.
Hill is represented by Kaplan/Perrone Entertainment as well as Mahdi Salehi and Katherine McClure at HJTH. Wigutow is represented by Verve, Kaplan/Perrone Entertainment, and Sloane, Offer, Weber & Dern.
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