A Toys ‘R’ Us Feature Film Is in Development

We’ve seen video games, dolls, and other toys all as live-action movies recently. Some, like MinecraftOpens in a new tab and Barbie, to tremendous success. So we suppose it was only a matter of time before Hollywood set its sights on the place where the toys came from. According to a report from VarietyOpens in a new tab, a film is in development about the iconic toy store chain Toys ‘R’ Us. Developing this new film is production company Story Kitchen. Apparently, the script will take some inspiration from Night at the Museum. So we may see a movie where tons of iconic toys come to life after hours, similar to Toy Story. Only with a lot more room for the living toys to run amok.

Here’s what Story Kitchen co-founders Dmitri M. Johnson and Mike Goldberg had to say about the potential Toys ‘R’ Us movie:

As ‘80s kids who considered Toys ’R’ Us one of the most magical places on EarthOpens in a new tab, we’re honored to partner to create a film that will capture the spirit of adventure, creativity and nostalgia that Toys ’R’ Us represents.

A Toys ‘R’ Us Feature Film Is in Development_1
Toys ‘R’ Us/Laura Northrup

The producers mention being ’80s kids and nostalgia, which suggests that the movie will be set in the retail chain’s heyday. This makes sense, as the ’80s were the eraOpens in a new tab of Kenner Star Wars toys, not to mention Transformers, G.I. Joe, He-Man, Thundercats, Barbie, Care Bears, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Strawberry Shortcake, Smurfs, and about a hundred other iconic toy brands, were at their peak popularity. Imagine a movie where all these toys come to life, and have an adventure together with a group of scrappy kids? Of course, getting all the rights to these different toy brands might be an impossible hill to climb. But the money a movie like that could make, from both kids and nostalgic adults, could be massive. As long as Toys ‘R’ Us mascot Geoffrey Giraffe has a sizable role, we’re here for it.