Ayo Edebiri, best known for her role in the American comedy-drama ‘The Bear,’ is set to write the screenplay for the live-action film ‘Barney,’ and is currently in talks to star in the film.
After the success of ‘Barbie’ back in 2023, Mattel Films will further their live-action adaptations with the upcoming ‘Barney’ film. First announced in 2019, the film is currently in good hands under A24 and Daniel Kaluuya’s 59% Productions. Not only is Kaluuya a producer for the big screen debut of ‘Barney,’ but he will also be a part of its cast.
The big screen debut of “everyone’s favorite purple dinosaur” aims to stir a sense of nostalgia in those who loved watching the children’s television series, which started way back in the early nineties. ‘Barney & Friends’ was a staple on television and ran for 14 seasons from 1992 up until 2010.
Mattel’s storytelling approach for ‘Barney’ will draw near to the narratives and experiences of its audiences who grew up watching the show. “We’re leaning into the millennial angst of the property rather than fine-tuning this for kids,” said Mattel executive Kevin McKeaon in an interview with The NewYorker.
Audiences and fans should expect to see the character and its story from a different light that is more mature, all the while keeping intact the warmth of the character. “It’s really a play for adults. Not that it’s R-rated, but it’ll focus on some of the trials and tribulations of being thirtysomething, growing up with Barney—just the level of disenchantment within the generation,” McKeaon added.
Mattel promised that the film would be “fun, entertaining and culturally oriented.” While a live-action adaptation might seem questionable, the company promised that ‘Barney’ “will not be an odd movie,” Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz promised. Definitely under the care of renowned production company A24 and Daniel Kaluuya, the film hopes to reflect the authenticity of the beloved childhood character while simultaneously taking in “a completely new approach.”
Although the film’s plot and remaining cast have been kept under wraps, surely with actors such as Edebiri and Kaluuya. With Emmy winner Edebiri and Oscar winner Kaluuya on the film’s line-up it will surely deliver a promising narrative given the artistic range and talent of the two.
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