Whac-A-Mole Film in Development From Mattel and TriStar Pictures

Mattel and TriStar Pictures are developing a live-action and animated hybrid feature film based on Mattel’s classic Whac-A-Mole game.

“Whac-A-Mole is more than a game — it’s a laugh-out-loud battle of reflexes that has brought joy and a little chaos to families for five decades,” said Mattel Films president Robbie Brenner. “We’re beyond excited to team up with TriStar Pictures to turn the iconic experience into a wild, action-packed ride for the big screen.”

“Mattel continues to create impact with their films, and Whac-A-Mole is no exception — a brand that has been in culture for generations,” said TriStar Pictures president Nicole Brown. “We look forward to partnering with them to bring audiences a fresh, unexpected take on this absolute classic.”

The project will be overseen by Elizabeth Bassin and Steve Spohr for Mattel Films, and by Shary Shirazi and Kelseigh Coombs for TriStar Pictures.

Other projects in the works from the toy company include the He-Man film “Masters of the Universe” and “Matchbox.”

Mattel Films’ “Masters of the Universe” is in production in London, with Travis Knight directing and a cast including Nicholas Galitzine as He-Man, Alison Brie as Evil-Lyn, Camila Mendes as Teela, Jared Leto as Skeletor and Idris Elba as Duncan/Man-At-Arms. Coming from Amazon MGM Studios, “Masters of the Universe” will debut in theaters worldwide on June 5, 2026.

The “Matchbox” live-action film from Skydance, Apple Original Films and Mattel Films has wrapped principal photography. The film stars John Cena and Jessica Biel; it is set to be released in the fall of 2026.