Jon M. Chu Tapped to Direct Live-Action Hot Wheels Movie for Warner Bros. and Mattel

Renowned director Jon M. Chu has officially been chosen to direct Warner Bros.’ upcoming live-action Hot Wheels film, marking a continuation of his collaboration with the studio. Chu previously directed Crazy Rich Asians in 2018 and In the Heights in 2021, both of which were well-received projects under the Warner Bros. banner. This new assignment adds to his growing list of high-profile endeavors and signals Warner Bros.’ confidence in his cinematic vision and storytelling capabilities.

Chu Aims to Honor Hot Wheels Legacy While Creating a Bold New Cinematic Adventure

Chu expressed excitement about the opportunity to bring the Hot Wheels universe to the big screen. For him, Hot Wheels is more than a line of toy cars; it represents imagination, creativity, and the exhilaration of play. He emphasized his intent to not only honor the franchise’s rich legacy but also to take it in a new, dynamic direction. With support from Mattel Studios and Warner Bros. Pictures, Chu aims to create a fresh cinematic adventure that embodies the spirit of the beloved brand.

While major plot details remain under wraps, the movie is confirmed to be action-packed and will feature some of the most iconic and stylish cars in the world. The screenplay is being written by Juel Taylor and Tony Rettenmaier. The Hot Wheels brand, created by Mattel co-founder Elliot Handler in 1968, has long been a staple of car culture and children’s toy collections. This film aims to tap into that nostalgic appeal while introducing it to a new generation.

A Visionary Team Assembles to Drive Hot Wheels Into Cinematic Action-Adventure Glory

Mattel Studios head Robbie Brenner praised Chu’s talent for building immersive cinematic worlds, describing him as the ideal director for this project. She highlighted Chu’s knack for crafting visually stunning films that also tell meaningful stories. Combined with the writing talents of Taylor and Rettenmaier, the creative team is positioned to deliver a film that balances thrilling visuals with heartfelt storytelling, staying true to the emotional and adrenaline-fueled roots of Hot Wheels.

The film will be produced by J.J. Abrams’ Bad Robot Productions, Jon M. Chu’s Electric Somewhere, Mattel Studios, and Warner Bros. Abrams has been associated with the adaptation since 2022 and joins a production team that includes Brenner, Chu, Abrams himself, and Michael Bostick. This lineup of powerhouse producers and studios sets high expectations for the film, which aspires to be more than just a toy adaptation — aiming instead to be a major cinematic event in the action-adventure genre.