‘Monster High’ Movie in the Works at Universal, Mattel

Universal is enrolling in Mattel‘s Monster High, with the studio and the toy brand teaming up on a feature that will be produced by Akiva Goldsman. The Monster High toy line debuted in 2010 and centered on the teenage children of monsters such as Dracula, Frankenstein and the Wolfman as they grow up and deal with the trials and tribulations of high school. This is the latest in a flurry of deals between Mattel and Hollywood studios as it continues to exploit its IP following the $1.446 billion success of last year’s Barbie. “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,” said Mattell Films boss Robbie Brenner. No director or writer is known to be attached at this time. Goldsman, who won an Oscar for writing A Beautiful Mind, is a prolific producer who also is developing a Major Matt Mason movie for Tom Hanks. “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,” said Goldsman, who produces via his Weed Road. Monster High was previously adapted for the small screen for Nickelodeon and Paramount+. Mattel has a number of high profile talent attached to projects, such as Daniel Kaluuya’s Barney, Vin Diesel’s Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots, J.J. Abrams Hot Wheels and Amazon MGM Studios’ Masters of the Universe, which recently cast The Idea of You star Nicholas Galitzine as He-Man. Other properties it is developing includes American Girl, Bob the Builder, Magic 8 Ball, Polly Pocket, Thomas & Friends, UNO, View-Master, and Wishbone Kevin McKeon and Arturo Thur De Koos are overseeing Monster High for Mattel and Greg Lessans is overseeing for Weed Road. Universal Pictures’ SVP of Production Lexi Barta and creative executive of production Development Jacqueline Garell are overseeing for Universal.