Playing with Hot Wheels cars and set-ups is an integral part of millions upon millions of kids’ lives. Hot Wheels is also one of those toys that most kids will outgrow or lose interest in over time. Collectors who are into Hot Wheels know that it is hard to find Hot Wheels from past decades (particularly the 1960s and 1970s) that are still in great condition. A new upcoming movie from J.J. Abrams may end up rekindling all sorts of interest in Hot Wheels for collectors.

Mattel, Inc. (NASDAQ: MAT) and Warner Bros. Pictures announced on April 25, 2022 that J.J. Abrams’ Bad Robot will produce an upcoming Hot Wheels motion picture for the big screen. The movie is described as a live-action high-throttle action film that will feature the iconic and timeless toy racing car. While we do not have a lineup yet, the press release indicates that the film will showcase some of the world’s hottest and sleekest cars, monster trucks and motorcycles.

Mattel’s press release also said that the 54-year-old Hot Wheels brand is the world’s leading vehicle franchise, and that it represents and unites all segments of car culture. Hot Wheels has collaborated with global leaders in automotive, streetwear, fashion, luxury, entertainment, gaming, action sports and motorsports — and Mattel’s press release pointed to NPD Group’s data showing that Hot Wheels is the #1 selling toy in the world with over 8 billion vehicles sold.

Mattel has already taken moves to take Hot Wheels beyond just play toys. Last summer the company issued Hot Wheels NFTs for collectors.

Please note: The images below are taken from Mattel’s Hot Wheels Legends and Collectors site. The images may have nothing to do with the feature film that was announced.

Robbie Brenner, Executive Producer of Mattel Films, said:

As the global leader in car culture, Hot Wheels has been igniting the challenger spirit in auto enthusiasts for generations. Fans of all ages are now in for the ride of their lives with the incredible talent of J.J. Abrams’ Bad Robot joining us alongside Warner Bros. Pictures to transform Hot Wheels’ legendary IP into a thrilling story for the big screen.

Hannah Minghella, Bad Robot’s President of Motion Pictures, said:

Before Hot Wheels became the global household name it is today, it was the dream of Elliot Handler, who was inventing and building toy cars at home in his Southern California garage. It’s that imagination, passion, and risk-taking spirit that we want to capture in this film.

Making movies about toys is nothing new. Mattel Films and Warner Bros. Pictures are even partners on the upcoming Barbie motion picture that is currently in principal photography and targeted for a 2023 theatrical release. Mattel’s development slate also features more movies based on the likes of American Girl, Barbie, Barney, Magic 8 Ball, Major Matt Mason, Masters of the Universe, Polly Pocket, Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots, Thomas & Friends, UNO, View Master, and Wishbone.

Comic book interest has been proven to see additional interest ahead of theatrical releases. Maybe the same will be true for toys within collectibles. The site for the Hot Wheels Legends Tour under collectibles says:

In addition to hosting custom car shows around the world, the Hot Wheels Legends Tour also brings new and ultra-rare collectibles only available to virtual and live event attendees. It’s a family-friendly day that’ll fire up your passion for the coolest cars in the world… We’ve made tens of thousands of unique vehicle models over the past 50+ years, so we’re looking for never-before-seen designs that stand out from the rest.