In a surprising turn of events that feels like a blast from the past, a live-action Toys "R" Us movie is now in development. According to Variety, Story Kitchen—the creative force behind recent video game movie hits like the Sonic the Hedgehog series—is set to bring this iconic toy store to life on the big screen. Their goal? To encapsulate that magical sense of childhood wonder within a modern, fast-paced adventure that honors the Toys 'R' Us brand's legacy over its 70-year history in the toy industry.
“Toys 'R' Us is a cultural touchstone that continues impacting the child in all of us today,” said Story Kitchen co-founders Dmitri M. Johnson and Mike Goldberg. “As '80s kids who considered Toys 'R' Us one of the most magical places on Earth, we’re honored to partner to create a film that will capture the spirit of adventure, creativity, and nostalgia that Toys 'R' Us represents.”

The film draws inspiration from beloved movies like Night at the Museum, Back to the Future, and Big, along with other successful toy-to-movie adaptations such as Barbie. While specific casting details remain under wraps, the production team includes Johnson, Goldberg, Timothy I. Stevenson, and Elena Sandoval for Story Kitchen, and Kim Miller Olko, who is producing for Toys "R" Us Studios.
“As Toys "R" Us first film, this project is an exciting opportunity to bring the magic of our brand to the big screen,” added Miller Olko, president of Toys "R" Us Studios. “It will be a journey as boundless as play itself, evoking the electric sense of wonder that is the essence of Toys "R" Us. This story will capture the imagination, adventure, and joy that has made Toys "R" Us a destination for kids of all ages.”
Story Kitchen's recent projects include a film adaptation of Square Enix's Just Cause, directed by Ángel Manuel Soto of Blue Beetle fame. They're also working on adaptations of Dredge: The Movie, Kingmakers, and Sleeping Dogs. With such a dynamic lineup, the Toys "R" Us movie promises to be a thrilling addition to their portfolio, reigniting the joy and nostalgia of countless childhood memories.