A New THOMAS AND FRIENDS Movie Being Developed By Mattel Films and Director Mark Forster
Mattel Films and filmmaker Marc Forster are set to develop a new feature film adaptation of the popular kids franchise Thomas and Friends featuring the classic character Thomas The Tank Engine. Thomas and Friends will be co-produced and directed by Forster, who is the director behind World War Z and Quantum of Solace.
The new film project is said to be a mix of live-action and animation. The script for the film was written by Alyssa Hill (A Taste of Power) and Jesse Wigutow (TRON3) and it will be produced by Renée Wolfe, Robbie Brenner, and Kevin McKeon.
Brenner said in a statement:
“Thomas is a beloved global franchise that focuses on the importance of friendship, a theme that resonates deeply with children and parents around the world. Marc is an incredible storyteller and I look forward to partnering with him to tell Thomas’ story in a modern and unexpected way.”
Forster said:
“Thomas has been a personal favorite of mine since childhood. I couldn’t be more excited to be working with Robbie and the entire team at Mattel, and embarking on this beautiful journey with such a timeless property.”
Thomas and Friends is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. The character was first created in 1945 by Rev. W. Awdry in stories that he wrote for his son, Christopher. The TV series is now in its 24th season. The first Thomas the Tank Engine movie, Thomas and the Magic Railroad, came out about twenty years ago.
I know a lot of people love Thomas and Friends, it was one of those things that I never got into, though. My interests as a kid steered toward G.I. Joe, Transformers, and He-Man.
This isn’t the first attempt to get another Thomas The Tank Engine off the ground. Several years ago 9 director Shane Acker was attached to develop and direct a film, but nothing ever came of it.
Source: Deadline