Jon M. Chu to direct live-action ‘Hot Wheels’ movie for Warner Bros. and Mattel

Jon M. Chu is set to direct a live-action ‘Hot Wheels’ movie, teaming with Mattel, Bad Robot, and Warner Bros.


Pop Culture & Art July 07, 2025

After the success of Wicked and Crazy Rich Asians, Jon M. Chu has been tapped to direct a live-action Hot Wheels movie, teaming up with Mattel, Warner Bros. Pictures, and J.J. Abrams’ Bad Robot.

The high-octane film will be based on Mattel’s iconic die-cast toy car line, which has sold over 8 billion vehicles worldwide. While plot details remain under wraps, Hot Wheels is being billed as an action-packed adventure featuring some of the world’s sleekest vehicles.

Writers Juel Taylor and Tony Rettenmaier, known for They Cloned Tyrone and Creed II, have signed on to pen the script. Chu will produce the film alongside Abrams, Mattel’s Robbie Brenner, and Michael Bostic, with studio executives from Warner Bros., Bad Robot, and Mattel overseeing the project.

In a statement, Chu said, “Hot Wheels has always been about more than speed, it’s about imagination, connection, and the thrill of play. Bringing that spirit to the big screen is an incredible opportunity.”

Mattel Studios’ President Robbie Brenner praised Chu’s vision, calling him ‘the ideal storyteller’ to bring Hot Wheels to life, adding that the film will blend ‘visual spectacle’ with ‘unforgettable narratives.’

The project marks a continued expansion of Mattel’s cinematic universe following Barbie’s global success. Other toy-based films in the works include adaptations of UNO, Polly Pocket, and Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots.

No release date has been confirmed, but fans can expect Hot Wheels to hit the fast lane as the next big entry in Mattel's growing film slate.

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