Gerard Johnston will direct a 'Monster High' movie for Mattel.
Gerard Johnstone, the visionary director credited for the acclaimed M3GAN, is embarking on a new cinematic adventure with Mattel and Universal. He will be directing the much-anticipated Monster High film, a project that further cements the ongoing collaboration between these creative giants. Notably, this partnership also expands to the launch of the Monster High Skullector M3GAN Doll, synchronizing with the release of Johnstone’s upcoming M3GAN 2.0, set to debut on June 27.
Johnstone’s flair for weaving horror with the universal pangs of adolescence, as evidenced by M3GAN, positions him as the ideal choice for Monster High. Originating in 2010, the popular toy line captures the unique lives of monster offspring grappling with high school’s various challenges, featuring characters descended from iconic figures like Dracula, Frankenstein, and the Wolfman.
The announcement follows a pivotal change at Mattel, with Robbie Brenner, the former head of film, elevated to the role of president and chief content officer at Mattel Studios, overseeing both film and television projects. Brenner, who tasted resounding success with Barbie in 2023, expressed her enthusiasm: “Gerard’s exceptional perspective and genre-bending approach align perfectly with our studio’s mission. We’re investing in surprising, innovative narratives that reflect our diverse brand portfolio.”
Johnstone himself is thrilled about this venture: “Barbie showcased Mattel Studios’ bold approach to its intellectual properties. The allure of Monster High is its invitation to explore a myriad of legendary monster myths in a contemporary setting.”
The project lists both Brenner and renowned screenwriter Akiva Goldsman as producers. Goldsman, who is simultaneously involved with a Mattel film featuring Major Tom and Tom Hanks, shares a sentimental connection: “Monster High holds a nostalgic charm for me; my daughters adored the dolls. Gerard brings a sharp, audacious, and heartfelt touch to this project, exactly what it needs.”
Oversight for the movie includes Arturo Thur de Koós representing Mattel, with Greg Lessans from Goldsman’s Weed Road managing the project’s interests. Within Universal Pictures, the team effort is helmed by Lexi Barta, senior vice president of production, alongside Jacqueline Garell, director of production development.
With ambitions reflective of Barbie’s success, Mattel is set on leveraging its expansive intellectual property catalog. The brand has a multitude of projects underway, including the Masters of the Universe with Amazon MGM Studios, Daniel Kaluuya’s Barney, Vin Diesel’s Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots, and J.J. Abrams’ Hot Wheels.
Represented by CAA, Key Creatives, ID, and Davis Law Group, Johnstone continues to make waves in Hollywood’s storytelling sphere.
