It is almost funny to think that studios are releasing films based on toys and board games, but some properties are so popular that not adapting them into a film would be a huge missed opportunity. And things are about to get exciting for the Barbie film.

Yes, there will be a film based on the iconic doll, and it has Margot Robbie playing the central figure. Now the film has just snatched up two very credible writers. According to new reports Greta Gerwig and Noah Baumbach will be partnering up to write the script for the film. More on the report below.

Variety and THR provide the story of this newest collaboration between the writers of Frances Ha and Mistress America. Additionally, Gerwig is being eyed to direct. Her previous credits include Lady Bird and her upcoming Little Women. Robbie will also produce.

The Barbie film has been in development at various studios for nearly a decade, but it was officially put into works in 2018. The project was initially set up at Sony with Amy Schumer and Anne Hathaway attached to star and Alethea Jones directing. It then moved over to Warner Bros, where the studio was eyeing Wonder Woman director Patty Jenkins to helm the film.

The hiring is great but also very unconventional. The creative team behind it aren’t really known for films based on IPs and pop culture, but rather smaller more indie fare. It will be interesting to see what the two can bring to a film about a doll whose legacy has lasted decades and endured changing tastes.

And it’s not as if Barbie has not earned the right to have a theatrical film based on her. The brand has billions in sales worldwide, and has seen numerous variations released including a princess, a movie star, and a president.

The film is the first to come from Mattel Films, which is headed by producer Robbie Brenner, and the first Mattel Films and Warner Bros. collaboration.

As for Gerwig, she is currently in post production for Little Women, which stars Emma Watson, Florence Pugh, Saoirse Ronan, and Meryl Streep.

Baumbach is working on his own film for Netflix. It’s an untitled divorce dramedy starring Adam Driver and Scarlett Johansson.

No word yet on when Barbie could begin production, but we will keep you posted on that as soon as there are any new developments.

[Source: THR | Variety]