Bob the Builder is set to hit the big screens as Mattel Films announces the development of a new animated, feature-length film produced by singer and actress Jennifer Lopez.
Mattel Films, ShadowMachine, Nuyorican Productions and Anthony Ramos have announced plans to develop an animated, feature-length film based on Bob the Builder, the long-running and beloved animated children’s series.
Imagined as an inventive international story for today’s audiences, the film will star Grammy-winning, Golden Globe and Emmy-nominated actor and recording artist Anthony Ramos (Hamilton, In the Heights), who also produces alongside Alex Bulkley and Corey Campodonico of the Academy Award-winning animation and production studio, ShadowMachine (Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio, BoJack Horseman).
Jennifer Lopez, Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas, and Benny Medina for Nuyorican Productions have also joined to co-produce, and Felipe Varga is attached to write. Bob the Builder is overseen by Kevin McKeon, Ivan Sanchez, and Arturo Thur De Koós for Mattel and Natalie Haack Flores for Nuyorican.
In the movie, Bob will travel to Puerto Rico for a construction job, taking on issues affecting the island and digging deeper into what it means to build. His journey will celebrate the vibrant and colourful textures of the Caribbean Latin nations.
Robbie Brenner, president of Mattel Films, said: “We are thrilled to collaborate with our brilliant partners on Bob the Builder, our first animated theatrical film. Pairing Anthony and Felipe’s genius vision for the story with ShadowMachine and Nuyorican’s artisan approach will capture this beloved character in a manner that audiences who grew up with Bob will recognise and all-new audiences will enjoy.”
Anthony Ramos commented: “For years, Bob the Builder’s characters have inspired young people around the world. I’m proud to bring this important message to the big screen, adding elements of life that are inspired by my own. The movie is about friends working together, a celebration of a beautiful home they share, and how love can help to conquer any obstacle in your way.”
Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas added: “The show’s ability to promote positive thinking, problem solving and empowerment, with a completely original story set in Puerto Rico, puts a new spin on a beloved brand, and we can’t wait for new and existing fans to connect with these amazing characters.”
Bob the Builder joins other Mattel Films in development including American Girl, Barney, Hot Wheels, Magic 8 Ball, Major Matt Mason, Masters of the Universe, Matchbox, Polly Pocket, Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots, Thomas & Friends, Uno, View-Master, and Wishbone. Mattel Films is also developing Christmas Balloon, a holiday family drama based on all-new IP.
