After the massive success of Wicked, which earned 10 Oscar nominations and over $756 million worldwide, acclaimed director Jon M. Chu is steering into high-octane territory with his next project: a live-action Hot Wheels movie for Mattel and Warner Bros. Pictures.
Joining Chu are screenwriters Juel Taylor and Tony Rettenmaier (known for Creed II and They Cloned Tyrone), who will pen the script. The film is being produced by Bad Robot (J.J. Abrams), Electric Somewhere, and Mattel Studios, marking a major push for Mattel’s cinematic universe following the momentum of Barbie.
“Jon’s ability to craft rich, elaborate worlds makes him the ideal storyteller to bring Hot Wheels to life,” said Robbie Brenner, President of Mattel Studios. “Paired with Juel and Tony’s compelling storytelling, this team is uniquely positioned to capture the heart, adrenaline, and spirit of Hot Wheels.”
Plot details are still under wraps, but the movie is described as a high-octane action film inspired by the globally beloved Hot Wheels toy car line. Expect sleek vehicles, intense rivalries, and high-speed drama — all shot through the vibrant lens of a visionary filmmaker.
“Hot Wheels has always been about more than speed,” said Chu. “It’s about imagination, connection, and the thrill of play. I’m excited to partner with Mattel Studios, Warner Bros. Pictures, and Bad Robot to honor Hot Wheels’ legacy while driving it somewhere entirely new.”
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Hot Wheels, introduced in 1968, has sold over 8 billion vehicles and collaborated with top names in automotive, fashion, gaming, and pop culture. With Chu at the helm and Hans Zimmer composing music for his current projects, fans can expect a full-throttle cinematic experience that blends realism, nostalgia, and innovation.
The Hot Wheels movie continues Mattel’s aggressive expansion into Hollywood, alongside upcoming adaptations of Polly Pocket, View-Master, UNO, and more.
“With Jon, Juel, and Tony aboard, we’re shifting into top gear,” added J.J. Abrams. “The excitement is real.”
