Mattel and TriStar Pictures to Develop Whac-A-Mole Hybrid Feature Film 

Mattel, Inc. and TriStar Pictures have announced they are developing a live-action/animated hybrid feature film based on Mattel’s classic Whac-A-Mole game. 

Robbie Brenner, President of Mattel Films, said: “Whac-A-Mole is more than a game—it’s a laugh-out-loud battle of reflexes that has brought joy and a little chaos to families for five decades. We’re beyond excited to team up with TriStar Pictures to turn the iconic experience into a wild, action-packed ride for the big screen.” 

Nicole Brown, President of TriStar Pictures, said: “Mattel continues to create impact with their films, and Whac-A-Mole is no exception – a brand that has been in culture for generations. We look forward to partnering with them to bring audiences a fresh, unexpected take on this absolute classic.” 

The project will be overseen by Elizabeth Bassin and Steve Spohr for Mattel Films, and by Shary Shirazi and Kelseigh Coombs for TriStar Pictures. 

Mattel Film’s vision is to collaborate with leading filmmakers to make standout quality movies based on Mattel’s iconic brands that will resonate in culture and appeal to global audiences.  

Mattel Films’ Masters of the Universe is in production in London with Travis Knight directing and a star-studded lineup of cast members including Nicholas Galitzine as He-Man, Alison Brie as Evil-Lyn, Camila Mendes as Teela, Jared Leto as Skeletor, Idris Elba as Duncan/Man-At-Arms, and many more. Distributed by Amazon MGM Studios, Masters of the Universe debuts in theaters worldwide on June 5, 2026.    

The Matchbox live-action film from Skydance, Apple Original Films and Mattel Films hast wrapped principal photography. The film stars John Cena and Jessica Biel. Matchbox is set to be released in Fall 2026.