Actor Daniel Kaluuya, Mattel to bring ‘Barney’ to the big screen

Mattel, Inc. and production companies 59% and Valparaiso Pictures have announced the development of a live-action film based on Barney, the lovable purple dinosaur.

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A look at Barney from the children’s stage show at Universal Studios Florida. Photo by Banks Lee

Mattel Films will co-produce “Barney” alongside Academy Award-nominee Daniel Kaluuya (“Get Out,” “Black Panther”), Rowan Riley and Amandla Crichlow at 59%, along with Valparaiso’s David Carrico, Adam Paulsen and Bobby Hoppey.

“Working with Daniel Kaluuya will enable us to take a completely new approach to ‘Barney’ that will surprise audiences and subvert expectations,” said Robbie Brenner of Mattel Films. “The project will speak to the nostalgia of the brand in a way that will resonate with adults, while entertaining today’s kids.”

“Barney was a ubiquitous figure in many of our childhoods, then he disappeared into the shadows, left misunderstood,” said Kaluuya. “We’re excited to explore this compelling modern-day hero and see if his message of ‘I love you, you love me’ can stand the test of time.”

“Barney” is the latest from Mattel Films to go into development, following projects based on Barbie, Hot Wheels, Masters of the Universe, American Girl, View Master, Magic 8 Ball, and Major Matt Mason.

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