Mattel has partnered with Universal Pictures and Academy Award-winning producer/screenwriter Akiva Goldsman under his banner, Weed Road, to develop Monster High, a live-action theatrical film featuring an original story based on the popular fashion dolls imagined as the children of legendary monsters. First introduced in 2010, Monster High immediately became a beloved expansive universe rich with inclusive storytelling and doll play, fostering a fandom that spans generations. The brand continues to encourage fans of all ages to embrace their authentic selves and what makes them unique. Robbie Brenner, President of Mattel Films, said: “Monster High helps fans discover the great beauty in being true to yourself and celebrates the unique sensibilities at the core of who we are as individuals. We’re proud to partner with Universal Pictures and the brilliant Akiva Goldsman to usher this important message to audiences worldwide.” Goldsman, who is also a producer on Mattel Films’ Major Matt Mason starring Tom Hanks, added: “I’ve been fascinated by Monster High since my daughters were obsessed with the dolls as kids. I’m thrilled to once again join forces with Robbie Brenner and our friends at Mattel to help bring this iconic property to life.”  Goldsman is the Academy Award-winning screenwriter of A Beautiful Mind, whose critically acclaimed projects range from creator of The Crowded Room, showrunner of Star Trek: Strange New Worlds, and screenwriter of Cinderella Man, to producer of several films in the blockbuster Paranormal Activity franchise and the upcoming sequels to Constantine and I Am Legend.  Producers of Monster High are Robbie Brenner and Akiva Goldsman. Overseeing the project are Kevin McKeon and Arturo Thur De Koos for Mattel and Greg Lessans for Weed Road. Universal Pictures’ SVP of Production Lexi Barta and Creative Executive of Production Development Jacqueline Garell are overseeing the project for the Studio. Mattel Film’s vision is to collaborate with leading filmmakers to make standout quality movies based on our iconic brands that will resonate in culture and appeal to global audiences. In addition to Monster High, Mattel Films has feature films in development for iconic IP including American Girl, Barney, Hot Wheels, Bob the Builder, Magic 8 Ball, Major Matt Mason, Masters of the Universe, Matchbox Polly Pocket, Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots, Thomas & Friends, UNO, View-Master, and Wishbone. Mattel Films is also developing Christmas Balloon, a holiday family drama based on all-new IP.

Mattel has announced that Barbie has been named as the 2021 top global toy property of the year for the second consecutive year by global information company The NPD Group. According to data gathered by NPD, Mattel’s Hot Wheels Singles 1/64 Assortment was the 2021 global top-selling toy of the year, while Fisher-Price was ranked as the number-five global toy property in 2021. Mattel had the most top 10 global properties of any manufacturer in 2021, and was the number-one toy company globally in the fourth quarter. The company was recognised with 18 top NPD rankings globally, and Mattel was also ranked as the number-one manufacturer in the U.S. for the 28th consecutive year. “Last year we introduced our Mattel Playbook, powered by brand purpose, design-led innovation, cultural relevance and executional excellence. Our performance under this unique brand-building approach is clear across these extraordinary rankings,” says Richard Dickson, President and COO, Mattel. “Barbie’s brand purpose to inspire the limitless potential in every girl is resonating more than ever, as evidenced by this top global ranking for the second year in a row. At the same time, Hot Wheels’ performance shows it continues to ignite the challenger spirit on which the brand was founded more than 50 years ago. “Most importantly, these awards are further proof of the enduring strength of our mission to create innovative products and experiences that inspire, entertain and develop children through play.” Steve Totzke, EVP and Chief Commercial Officer, Mattel, adds: “These NPD results speak for themselves and demonstrate the performance at all levels of our global team and in support of Mattel’s transformation to an IP-driven, high-performing toy company. We couldn’t be prouder.”