It could be filed under the “worst-kept secrets” in Hollywood this year, but today it’s official: Warner Animation Group (WAG) is putting a motion picture based on Funko‘s Pop! vinyl figures into production.
Following months of rumors, a photo surfaced in January that reportedly showed a production timeline somewhere within Warner Bros. with Funko on the list. While the image was largely scrubbed from the internet, the industry has been buzzing, with confirmation coming in through Deadline today.
“We’re thrilled for this opportunity and are committed to make an amazing Funko movie that stands on its own merit,” says Funko CEO Brian Mariotti. “This isn’t about selling toys or building a brand. The team at Warner Animation Group have a unique vision of what the first film should be and we are extremely excited to take this journey alongside them.”
Having already navigated the cross-branded seas with its work on The LEGO Movie, The LEGO Batman Movie, and The LEGO Movie 2: The Second Part, WAG is familiar with weaving original tales using cross-fandom IP. The studio is currently at work on Tom & Jerry, Space Jam 2, and the Scooby-Doo! reboot, Scoob!, and maintains a robust array of properties including Harry Potter and DC Comics.
Disney vets Teddy Newton (Jack-Jack Attack, Day & Night) and Mark Dindal (The Emperor’s New Groove, Chicken Little) will craft the story and direct, respectively.
Funko recently posted a 38% sales increase for its second quarter, led by its collectible figure lines and lifestyle segments. Its new flagship store in Hollywood is set to open at some point in the months ahead.
