Thoughts:Universal Pictures has added Barbie to its star stable. The studio has made a deal with Mattel to build a live-action film around its signature Barbie toy line. With studios racing to build films around well-known concepts, Universal brass feels it has landed the queen of globally branded toy figures.
Laurence Mark will produce.
According to Mattel, the 50-year-old Barbie has 99% worldwide brand awareness, and it's the No. 1 girls property in the toy industry, the top doll property in the U.S., and the No. 1 worldwide property in the traditional toy industry.
"Barbie is the most famous doll in history, a unique cultural icon in the world of brands," said Universal Pictures chairman Marc Shmuger. "So many representations of Barbie frequent pop culture. We're grateful to Mattel for entrusting us with this extraordinary opportunity.
"Mark said the next step will be to canvass writers and decide on a creative take for a family-friendly movie. Mark, who just produced "Julie and Julia" was one of several A-list producers who met with Mattel and U execs. "Barbie may be the most popular girl in the world, and has always been a wonderfully aspirational figure, so we must do her proud," Mark said, noting that there's no shortage of plot possibilities since Barbie has held more than 120 jobs over the years.
I'm actually surprised that its taken this long for Barbie to hit the big screen in a live-action film. Even though I'm not remotely excited about this, you cant fault that its a smart business decision. I mean who doesn't know Barbie? This is guaranteed to make a shit load of money at the box office. I mean if crap like G-Force and The Hannah Montana Movie can go on to be box office hits, than I don't see why Barbie wouldn't have similar success.
5 comments:
"This is guaranteed to make a shit load of money at the box office."
I disagree. Though the brand name certainly doesn't have the same cache that Barbie does, the Bratz movie came and went with a whimper. I don't see this as a big hit...but I've been wrong before.
Bratz is a good example, but you have to remember that Barbie is alot more famous than Bratz. I have a feeling this movie will do alot of money if they target it as a family movie with some teen moments.
That is actually disgusting! Who would want to watch it? I mean, I am sure millions of people will watch it but it still shouldnt be made! What kind of story would it be? Barby meets Ken and falls in love? Come on! And who will play barbie? Pam Anderson is too old now...maybe Paris Hilton with fake breats?
I agree. They are looking everywhere for ideas to make movies, its amazing they hadn't thought of this before!
seriously???????????????????
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