In an exciting development for fans of both John Cena and classic toys, the wrestling superstar has officially signed on to star in Matchbox, a live-action film based on the beloved Mattel car toyline. The project has been secured by Apple Original Films and is set to rev up production under the collaboration of Skydance and Mattel Films.
Directing and Writing Team
The film will be helmed by Sam Hargrave, known for his work on the Extraction series, which has garnered a reputation for its intense action sequences and engaging storytelling. The screenplay is penned by David Coggeshall, who recently wrote The Family Plan for Apple, alongside Jonathan Tropper, the mind behind the successful Ryan Reynolds film The Adam Project. This combination of talent is promising a thrilling cinematic experience.
A Rich History
Matchbox was first created in 1953 and became a household name after being acquired by Mattel in 1997. The brand rose to prominence as a competitor to Mattel's own die-cast car line, Hot Wheels. The lore surrounding Matchbox tells of automotive enthusiast Jack Odell, who designed the first car for his daughter, ensuring it could fit into a matchbox for school. This clever idea not only delighted his daughter but also sparked interest among her friends, leading to the birth of an iconic brand.
Plot and Production Details
While specific plot details are being kept under wraps, the excitement around Matchbox is palpable, particularly as Hollywood has long attempted to adapt Hot Wheels for the big screen without success. This marks the first time that Matchbox is being developed as a feature film, paving the way for new storytelling possibilities centered on these classic toys.
The production team includes industry veterans such as David Ellison, Dana Goldberg, and Don Granger from Skydance, along with Robbie Brenner from Mattel Films. Their collective expertise bodes well for the project, which is expected to bring a fresh take on the beloved toyline.
The Future of John Cena
John Cena continues to expand his filmography, having recently starred alongside Awkwafina in the Amazon action-comedy Jackpot. He is also in the midst of filming the second season of Peacemaker, the popular Max original series that delves deeper into the DC superhero universe. As if that weren't enough, Cena is gearing up for his farewell WWE tour set for 2025, making this a busy and pivotal time for the star.
With Matchbox, Cena is poised to capture the hearts of both toy enthusiasts and new audiences alike. The combination of his star power and the nostalgic appeal of Matchbox promises an exhilarating ride. As production gears up, fans eagerly await further announcements about the film's direction and additional cast members.
Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting project as it races toward its release!
