new Animated “Barbie” Film in Development

Illumination, known for hits like “Despicable Me” and “The Super Mario Bros. Movie,” is partnering with mattel Studios to produce a new animated “Barbie” movie for theatrical release. While no specific story elements or creative personnel have been announced, the collaboration signals a notable expansion of the “Barbie” cinematic universe.

Mattel also has a live-action “Masters of the Universe” film slated for a 2026 debut.

Willem Dafoe Joins Robert Eggers’ “Werwulf”

Oscar-nominated actor Willem Dafoe is set to collaborate with director Robert Eggers on the upcoming Focus Features project, “Werwulf.” This marks Dafoe’s third collaboration with Eggers, following their work on “The Lighthouse” and “The Northman.”

Dafoe will reunite with “The Northman” co-stars Aaron Taylor-Johnson and Lily-Rose Depp in the new film. Eggers co-wrote the script with Sjón, and details about the werewolf narrative remain under wraps, tho it is described as Eggers’ darkest film to date.”Werwulf” is scheduled for a Christmas Day 2026 release in North america.

“Practical Magic 2” Begins Filming with Original Stars

Nicole Kidman shared a video marking the first day of filming for “Practical Magic 2,” the long-anticipated sequel to the 1998 cult classic. The video featured Kidman and co-star Sandra Bullock, with Kidman captioning it, “The witches are back. Owens sisters’ first day on set!”

Susanne Bier is directing the sequel, with a screenplay co-penned by Akiva Goldsman and Georgia Pritchett. Bullock and Kidman reprise their roles as Sally and Gillian Owens, sisters with magical lineage. The original film centered on their efforts to break a curse affecting the men they loved.

Returning cast members include Dianne Wiest and Stockard channing, joined by newcomers Lee Pace, Joey King, Maisie Williams, and xolo Maridueña.

Repost from Nicole Kidman The witches are back Owens sisters’ first day on set! #PracticalMagic pic.twitter.com/8N68WiWxYc

— Warner Bros. (@warnerbros) July 18, 2025

Franchise Development and Studio Strategies

The statements from Sucker Punch highlight a common industry practice where studios prioritize current projects before committing to sequels or revivals of established intellectual properties. This phased approach allows for focused development and resource allocation,ensuring the quality of ongoing productions.

The resurgence of interest in classic films through sequels, as seen with “Practical Magic 2,” reflects a broader trend in Hollywood, where nostalgia and established fan bases are leveraged for new cinematic ventures. Similarly, the expansion of animated universes, like the planned “Barbie” movie by Illumination, demonstrates a strategy to capture diverse audience segments.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will there be a new “Infamous” game?

While the director of “Infamous” expressed a desire to work on the franchise again, Sucker Punch is currently focused on completing “Ghost of Tsushima.” Future plans for “Infamous” have not been officially announced.

Who is developing the new animated “Barbie” movie?

Illumination and Mattel Studios are collaborating on the new animated “Barbie” film.

What is Robert Eggers’ next film called?

Robert Eggers’ next project with Willem Dafoe is titled “Werwulf.”

When will “Werwulf” be released?

“Werwulf” is scheduled for a Christmas Day 2026 release in North America.

Are Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock returning for “Practical Magic 2”?

Yes, Nicole Kidman and Sandra Bullock are reprising their roles as the owens sisters in “Practical Magic 2.”

What is the status of Sucker Punch’s current project?

sucker Punch is currently focused on finishing “ghost of Tsushima.”