Sometimes film news is obvious and makes complete sense. Marvel Studios announces a new film with an A-list star and you read the article and go, “Yep, sounds about right.” But then you have stories that leave you scratching your head and checking the URL to make sure you didn’t stumble upon something from The Onion. Folks, the latest news about the upcoming “Barney” film is one of the latter stories.
According to Mattel Films, the studio is actively developing a new modern-day “Barney” film that will be produced by none other than “Get Out” star Daniel Kaluuya. That’s right, the incredible, Academy Award-nominated actor from films such as the aforementioned Jordan Peele thriller, last year’s crime drama “Widows,” and the upcoming police-shooting film “Queen & Slim” is producing a feature-length project about the big purple dinosaur that sings about love and acceptance.
It’s a strange, strange world.
“Barney was a ubiquitous figure in many of our childhoods, then he disappeared into the shadows, left misunderstood,” said Kaluuya. “We’re excited to explore this compelling modern-day hero and see if his message of ‘I love you, you love me’ can stand the test of time.”
Mattel Films’ Robbie Brenner said, “Working with Daniel Kaluuya will enable us to take a completely new approach to Barney that will surprise audiences and subvert expectations. The project will speak to the nostalgia of the brand in a way that will resonate with adults, while entertaining today’s kids.”
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Look, when it was announced that Chris Rock was reviving the “Saw” franchise, we said that the pitch had to be great to get the green light. And with “Barney,” you have to assume that Kaluuya has a strong idea for what he wants to see in the children’s film for Mattel Films to give him a shot at producing it. So, at this point, even though it feels a bit like Mad Libs, we’re willing to see what the actor has up his sleeve.
For those unfamiliar with “Barney,” here’s a little peek at the TV series that shaped the minds of millions: