With Mattel Films gaining momentum after the blockbuster success of “Barbie,” the studio is charging ahead with its Barney movie produced by Daniel Kaluuya. This project has piqued the interest of cinephiles ever since Mattel Films executive Kevin McKeon likened the script to an A24 production and the surrealistic films of Charlie Kaufman and Spike Jonze. Notably, neither of these sources of inspiration typically caters to family audiences.

Mattel CEO Ynon Kreiz recently shared insights into the Barney movie, emphasising that it will not be eccentric. He said, “It’s too early to provide specifics, but I can assure you that we are adopting a fresh approach that will be enjoyable, entertaining, and culturally relevant. It will not be an unconventional film.”

Contrary to McKeon’s earlier comments that the project leans into Millennial angst and is more geared toward adults, Kreiz clarified that Kaluuya’s Barney movie will not be considered unconventional. McKeon previously remarked, “We’re embracing the Millennial disenchantment with the property rather than tailoring it for kids. It is really geared towards adults. It’s not necessarily R-rated, but it will explore the challenges and disillusionment faced by those in their thirties who grew up with Barney.”

McKeon, describing the Barney film as an “A24-type” production, added, “It would be a bold move on our part and would underscore our commitment to creating art.”

When the project was first announced in November 2019, Robbie Brenner of Mattel Films expressed that collaborating with Kaluuya would allow the studio to take a unique approach to Barney, one that would surprise and defy expectations.

Kaluuya himself shared his excitement about exploring this modern-day interpretation of Barney, a character deeply ingrained in many childhoods, and testing if his message of “I love you, you love me” could remain relevant over time.

In a Variety interview coinciding with the success of “Barbie,” Brenner noted that the Barney movie would not necessarily be darker but would be distinctive, drawing inspiration from works like “Being John Malkovich” or “Adaptation,” evoking the creative partnership between Kaufman and Jonze. She explained that the film would delve into themes of identity, alienation, and existential questions, making it more suitable for adult audiences and embracing an off-kilter sensibility.

Brenner concluded by emphasizing that any movie involving Barney would inherently be unconventional, emphasizing that they were not aiming to replicate “Ted,” and that it would be a unique and distinct cinematic experience.