A24 and Mattel Films’ live-action Barney movie has tapped Ayo Edebiri to write the millennial-focused screenplay and in talks to star alongside Daniel Kaluuya, who is also producing through his company, 59% Productions.
First announced in 2019, the film’s plot remains under wraps. Kevin McKeon and Andrew Scannell are overseeing for Mattel Films, with Robbie Brenner producing for Mattel, alongside A24. Kaluuya and Rowan Riley are producing for 59% Productions in collaboration with the studios.
A New Direction for Barney
Unlike the beloved children’s series Barney & Friends, which ran from 1992 to 2010, this adaptation will take a more mature, surrealistic approach. In a July 2023 interview with The New Yorker, Mattel executive Kevin McKeon described the project as drawing inspiration from Charlie Kaufman and Spike Jonze.
“We’re leaning into the millennial angst of the property rather than fine-tuning this for kids,” McKeon said. “It’s really a play for adults… focusing on the trials and tribulations of being thirtysomething, growing up with Barney—just the level of disenchantment within the generation.”
Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz later added in an interview with Semafor that the film would be “fun, entertaining, and culturally oriented,” while also emphasizing, “It will not be an odd movie.”
Mattel Expands Its Film Slate
Following the success of Barbie, Mattel Films has significantly expanded its development slate. Upcoming projects include:
- A live-action Masters of the Universe starring Nicholas Galitzine (Amazon)
- A Matchbox film starring John Cena (Apple)
- Films based on classic IP, including Polly Pocket, Hot Wheels, American Girl, UNO, and Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots
With Barney now officially moving forward under A24’s banner, Mattel is continuing to reinvent its most recognizable brands for modern audiences.