Mattel Films‘ are working on a Barney movie, which is being lead by Daniel Kaluuya. Recently an executive from Mattel said they want to the film to feel similar to an A24 project. The VP of Film Production for Mattel Kevin McKeon spoke to Deadline about the forthcoming film, stating it will be “surrealistic,” and be similar to films helmed by directors Charlie Kaufman or Spike Jonze.
“We’re leaning into the millennial angst of the property rather than fine-tuning this for kids,” said McKeon. “It’s really a play for adults. Not that it’s R-rated, but it’ll focus on some of the trials and tribulations of being thirtysomething, growing up with Barney—just the level of disenchantment within the generation.”
In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, Kaluuya spoke about the project saying;
“Barney taught us, ‘I love you, you love me. Won’t you say you love me too?’ That’s one of the first songs I remember, and what happens when that isn’t true? I thought that was really heartbreaking,” said Kaluuya. “I have no idea why but it feels like that makes sense. It feels like there’s something unexpected that can be poignant but optimistic. Especially at this time now, I think that’s really, really needed.”
Email: neill@outloudculture.com
