‘View-Master’ Movie In the Works from Mattel, Escape Artists and Sony

Mattel has set its latest toy-to-feature title with a live-action project based on View-Master.

Citing 'Barbie' Success, Mattel Gives CEO Ynon Kreiz a $15M Stock Retention Grant

Mattel Films will partner with Todd Black’s Escape Artists on the project that is set up at Sony Pictures. Described as a “four-quadrant family adventure film,” the feature is based on the stereoscopic viewing device that allows users to collect 3-D reels with thematic images. It was first introduced to the public in 1939.

Black, Jason Blumenthal, Steve Tisch and Tony Shaw of Escape Artists are set to produce. Kevin McKeon and Arturo Thur de Koós will oversee the title for Mattel Films.

“View-Master has long been a window to the wonders of the world, sparking imagination in kids and adults alike,” said Black. “Teaming up with Robbie Brenner and Mattel Films gives us the chance to honor that legacy while creating an entirely new adventure for today’s audience.”

Barney's Back: Mattel Sets Premiere Date for Rebooted Preschool Show

A View-Master movie was previously set up at MGM in 2019.

“View-Master has inspired generations to embark on boundless adventures, offering a treasure trove of storytelling possibilities for this film,” said Mattel Films president Robbie Brenner, who was behind last year’s Barbie . “We’re thrilled to work with Sony Pictures Entertainment and Escape Artists’ Todd Black to bring this Mattel franchise to life. Their creative and filmmaking expertise sets the stage to introduce a modern take on this beloved toy to audiences everywhere.”

Mattel is working with Escape Artists on the upcoming Masters of the Universe live-action feature film. After years of development that saw the project bounce around to several studios, the film landed at Amazon MGM with Nicholas Galitzine set to star. Other upcoming Mattel projects include a Bob the Builder animated feature starring Anthony Ramos and a Matchbox Cars movie from Extraction director Sam Hargrave.

When Is It Idea Theft? A Mattel TV Adaptation Trial Could Be a Case Study