Mattel and TriStar Pictures are teaming up to bring a classic arcade game to the big screen. The companies announced a new live-action/animated hybrid feature film based on Whac-A-Mole, the beloved reflex game that’s been entertaining families for nearly 50 years.
“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,” says Robbie Brenner, President of Mattel Films. 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.”
Whac-A-Mole debuted in 1975. The arcade game was manufactured by TOGO before Bandai brought it into homes in the late 1970s. Today, families can enjoy Whac-A-Mole at carnivals, arcades, and at home thanks to Mattel.
Nicole Brown, President of TriStar Pictures, adds, “Mattel continues to create impact with their films, and Whac-A-Mole is no exception — a brand that has been in culture for generations. We look forward to partnering with them to bring audiences a fresh, unexpected take on this absolute classic.”
The film is overseen by Elizabeth Bassin and Steve Spohr for Mattel Films, and by Shary Shirazi and Kelseigh Coombs for TriStar Pictures.
Mattel Films continues to expand its slate of projects based on its iconic brands. Currently in production is Masters of the Universe, directed by Travis Knight and starring 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. The film arrives in theaters worldwide June 5, 2026, from Amazon MGM Studios.
Additionally, Matchbox, a live-action film inspired by Mattel’s iconic line of toy cars, is slated for release next fall. The project is a collaboration between Skydance, Apple Original Films, and Mattel Films. It has wrapped principal photography and stars John Cena and Jessica Biel.
For more information about Mattel’s portfolio, visit mattel.com.
