Barney, the beloved purple dinosaur from the friendly television series for young children, is set to undergo a major transformation in an upcoming film by Mattel. In an interview with The New Yorker, Kevin McKeon, an executive from Mattel’s film division, shared insights into the unconventional direction the movie will take. Unlike previous iterations, this new story will cater to an adult audience and explore themes of Millennial angst and disillusionment. McKeon explained that the intention is not to make it R-rated, but rather to delve into the challenges and complexities faced by those who grew up with Barney. He described the film as a bold artistic endeavor for Mattel.
This approach aligns with a growing trend of darker adaptations of childhood tales, exemplified by the recent release of “Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey,” which transformed beloved characters into subjects of a horror movie aimed at adults. Although Barney is not expected to venture into horror territory, McKeon likened the film to the style associated with A24, a prominent production company known for its unique and often unconventional projects. Notably, acclaimed actor Daniel Kaluuya will serve as a producer for the Barney film, sparking curiosity about the possibility of his involvement in the cast. While the release date is still distant, the fact that the movie already has a defined tone and producer indicates steady progress in its development.
Kaluuya, who previously starred in the successful film “Nope,” directed by Jordan Peele, has experience in compelling and suspenseful narratives. In the film, Kaluuya portrayed Otis Haywood Jr., who embarks on a mission to save his family’s business from a menacing extraterrestrial creature that threatens their town. His involvement adds another layer of intrigue to the Barney project.
Image via PBS
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While Mattel is actively working on various projects centered around their iconic intellectual properties, their immediate focus rests on the performance of the live-action Barbie film at the box office. Featuring Margot Robbie in the lead role, this highly anticipated blockbuster follows Barbie’s journey of self-discovery alongside her companion Ken, played by Ryan Gosling, as they venture into the human world in search of answers. Barbie is set to hit theaters on July 21.
You can watch FilmSweep’s interview with Daniel Kaluuya below:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Adult-oriented adaptation
What is the premise of the upcoming Barney film by Mattel?
The upcoming Barney film by Mattel takes a daring twist and targets an adult audience. It explores themes of Millennial angst and the trials of growing up with Barney, focusing on the disenchantment within the generation.
Is the Barney film intended for children?
No, the Barney film is not intended for children. It is geared towards an adult audience and aims to provide a different tone and narrative than the previous iterations of the beloved character.
Will the Barney film be R-rated?
No, the Barney film is not expected to be R-rated. While it explores adult themes and experiences, it is not specifically categorized as an R-rated film. It aims to capture the challenges and complexities faced by those who grew up with Barney in a more mature and artistic way.
Who is involved in the Barney film project?
Daniel Kaluuya, known for his roles in acclaimed films, will be involved in the Barney film project as a producer. His involvement adds further intrigue to the film. However, it remains to be seen if he will also join the cast.
What is the connection between the Barney film and A24?
The Barney film has been described as an “A24-type” project. This reference suggests that it may share similarities with the unique and unconventional style often associated with A24, a renowned production company known for its distinct and boundary-pushing films.
Are there any other examples of dark adaptations of children’s stories?
Yes, there has been a rising trend of darker adaptations of childhood tales. An example mentioned in the text is “Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey,” which transformed the iconic characters into subjects of a horror movie aimed at adult viewers.
When can we expect to see the Barney film?
The specific release date for the Barney film has not been mentioned in the text. However, the fact that the movie already has a defined tone and a producer indicates that the development process is progressing steadily.
More about Adult-oriented adaptation
- The New Yorker interview with Kevin McKeon
- A24
- Daniel Kaluuya’s filmography
- Winnie-the-Pooh: Blood and Honey trailer
- Barbie official movie website
