There’s a ‘View-Master’ movie in the works from Mattel Films and Sony Pictures

What do you want to see in a “View-Master” film? Mattel is pondering that question. 

The toy company and “Barbie” studio, along with Sony Pictures and producer Todd Black’s production company Escape Artists, announced Wednesday that they’re developing a live-action feature based on the iconic stereoscopic image viewer that’s been entertaining people with reels of 3-D images that look like they’re glowing since 1939. 

While there’s no script yet, the film is described as a “four-quadrant family adventure.” 

“View-Master has inspired generations to embark on boundless adventures, offering a treasure trove of storytelling possibilities for this film,” Robbie Brenner, president of Mattel Films, said in a statement. “We’re thrilled to work with Sony Pictures Entertainment and Escape Artists’ Todd Black to bring this Mattel franchise to life. Their creative and filmmaking expertise sets the stage to introduce a modern take on this beloved toy to audiences everywhere.”

Mattel has numerous toy properties in development with many different studios. Next up is the long-in-development “Masters of the Universe” at Amazon MGM, based on the He-Man toys, with Travis Knight directing and Nicholas Galitzine as He-Man. Black is also producing that one, which is slated for 2026. Other Mattel Films projects in development include “Barney” with Daniel Kaluuya, “Major Matt Mason” with Tom Hanks, and “Monster High” with Akiva Goldsman. 

Mattel Films’ “Barbie” kicked off a new era in toy-based I.P. adaptations, becoming the top-grossing film of 2023 and earning an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture. 

“View-Master” was previously in development at MGM, and before that it was set up at DreamWorks. Producers have had a hard time getting it in focus, but maybe this time they’ll get the picture.