Jon M. Chu, known for his work on Wicked, is set to direct a live-action Hot Wheels film.

      As Jon M. Chu finishes the two-part Wicked films this fall, he is already looking ahead to his next endeavor: a live-action Hot Wheels film produced by Warner Bros. and Bad Robot, which will follow the completion of the musical adaptation.

      Hot Wheels is characterized as “an action film inspired by Mattel’s popular toy car line, featuring some of the fastest and most stylish vehicles in the world.” The script has been penned by Juel Taylor and Tony Rettenmaier (Creed II), with Chu producing under his Electric Somewhere banner, alongside J.J. Abrams from Bad Robot and Robbie Benner from Mattel Studios.

      “Hot Wheels has always represented more than just speed — it embodies imagination, connection, and the joy of play. Bringing that essence to the silver screen is an amazing opportunity,” Chu commented on his new directing role. “I’m thrilled to collaborate with Mattel Studios, Warner Bros. Pictures, and Bad Robot to create an adventure that pays tribute to Hot Wheels’ legacy while also taking it in a fresh direction.”

      Abrams expressed his enthusiasm, saying, “We feel incredibly fortunate to work with Mattel on this unique film. Having Jon, Juel, and Tony involved elevates our excitement to a whole new level.”

      “Jon’s talent for creating rich, intricate worlds with a unique perspective makes him the perfect storyteller for bringing Hot Wheels to life,” Benner remarked. “His films are visually stunning — true eye candy — but what distinguishes them is how he integrates unforgettable narratives within those beautiful visuals. Together with Juel and Tony’s compelling storytelling, this team is ideally positioned to capture the essence, excitement, and spirit of Hot Wheels, a prominent name in car culture.”

      “Jon is a visionary director and an amazing partner for Warner Bros.,” said Jesse Ehrman, WB’s President of Development and Production. “We are excited to have him on board, along with the talented writing duo of Juel and Tony. Together with our partners at Bad Robot and Mattel Studios, we eagerly anticipate bringing Hot Wheels to life on the big screen.”

      Chu has a busy schedule ahead with the upcoming release of Wicked: For Good, which is set to debut on November 21st. Additionally, he will executive produce a Crazy Rich Asians TV series for HBO Max, tied to his 2018 film adaptation. He is also set to direct an adaptation of the video game Split Fiction, featuring Sydney Sweeney, as well as Oh, The Places You’ll Go, slated for a March 2028 release.

      Ricky Church – Follow me on Bluesky for more movie updates and discussions.