The beloved purple dinosaur, Barney, is set to make a big-screen comeback in a live-action movie, and here’s everything you need to know about the highly anticipated film.
The Revival of Barney: Following the success of the live-action Barbie movie starring Margot Robbie, toy company Mattel is bringing many of its iconic properties to life, including Barney the dinosaur. Barney & Friends, the beloved children’s show, debuted on television over two decades ago and ran from 1992 to 2009. The show not only captivated children but also jumpstarted the careers of stars like Demi Lovato, Selena Gomez, and Jaren Lewison from Never Have I Ever. Additionally, the feature film “Barney’s Great Adventure” was released in 1998.
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A Nostalgic Journey for Millennials: Similar to the adult-oriented approach taken in the PG-13 Barbie movie, the upcoming Barney film will cater to millennials who grew up watching the endearing dinosaur sensation. Mattel aims to infuse the film with nostalgic elements that resonate with adults who fondly remember Barney from their childhood.
Daniel Kaluuya’s Role: Acclaimed actor Daniel Kaluuya, known for his remarkable performance in “Get Out,” will take on the lead role in the Barney movie. Not only will Kaluuya star as the lovable purple dinosaur, but he will also produce the film through his production company, 59%. Kaluuya’s involvement in the project began in 2019, and he is committed to upholding high standards as both an actor and a producer.
Plot Details and Adult-Focused Themes: While an official synopsis has not been released, Mattel Films’ Robbie Brenner stated that the film will tap into the nostalgia of the brand, connecting with adults while entertaining today’s children. Kaluuya teased the movie’s plot, mentioning that it will explore Barney as a modern-day hero, a ubiquitous figure in many childhoods who disappeared into the shadows, left misunderstood. The film will examine whether Barney’s timeless message of “I love you, you love me” can withstand the test of time.
A Surrealistic Approach: The Barney movie will not be a typical kids’ film. It will be an adult-oriented, “A24-type” project, with surrealistic elements akin to movies by Charlie Kaufman and Spike Jonze. While not explicitly R-rated, the film will delve into millennial angst, focusing on the trials and tribulations of being in the thirtysomething age group and growing up with Barney. The movie aims to capture the disenchantment felt within this generation.
Filming and Release: As of June 2023, the film is still in the development stage, and the script is being carefully crafted to meet high standards. While no specific release date has been announced, fans eagerly await the return of Barney to the big screen.
The Barney movie, led by the talented Daniel Kaluuya, promises to be a unique and nostalgic cinematic experience that will resonate with fans old and new. As the details continue to unfold, anticipation grows for the live-action adventure of everyone’s favorite purple dinosaur.