A supernatural drama series based on toymaker Mattel’s Magic 8 Ball toy is in development, Deadline reports.
The project, which will feature a collaboration between M. Night Shyamalan (Split, The Visit) and Brad Falchuk (The Brothers Sun, Scream Queens), was announced in a joint Instagram post between Shyamalan and Mattel with Shyamalan writing “Been working on this for a couple years… Who’s in?”
According to an accompanying press release elaborating on the project, the two filmmakers aim “to reimagine the classic Magic 8 Ball as the centerpiece of a high-concept, character-driven supernatural drama that blends psychological intensity with cultural intrigue.”
Shyamalan will direct and act as co-creator and co-showruner with Falchuk, who will write the series, per Deadline.
In a press release Mattel said “1 million units sold annually, the Magic 8 Ball has been in existence for 75 years and remains a pop culture staple, captivating generations with its mysterious ability to answer life’s questions with a simple shake. More than a toy, it has become a symbol of curiosity, fate, and fun, appearing in countless films, television shows, and even being referenced in music and literature. Its combination of playful charm and enigmatic mystique makes it a uniquely fertile ground for reinvention in premium storytelling.”
Shyamalan has seen a recent resurgence in his directing career after the releases of Old, Knock at the Cabin, and Trap. Another film titled Remain is expected to release in October 2026 under Universal Pictures.
Emmy-winner Falchuk is a co-creator of the longrunning jukebox musical comedy series Glee, as well as the 9-1-1 shows and the American Horror Story universe.
The announcement comes as more brands are hunting for collaborations with top creatives in the wake of Barbie‘s massive financial success. The film, which grossed over $600 million domestically and nearly $1.5 billion worldwide according to film statistics website The Numbers, has sparked a wave of product-inspired film and television adaptations.
Previously Mattel rival Hasbro capitalized on the popularity of its Ouija franchise in the 2014 film Ouija, starring Olivia Cooke (House of the Dragon, Bates Motel). A sequel to the film, titled Ouija: Origin of Evil, was released in 2016.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, multiple projects based on Mattel IP are currently underway.