After it was announced last December that Universal Pictures was entering a deal for exclusive rights to make films based on the 70-year-old LEGO brand after Warner Bros’ let their movie rights to the toy property lapse, Deadline brings word Universal has officially completed a five-year exclusive deal with the LEGO Group for the development, production, and theatrical distribution of films.
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“The LEGO System in Play gives people the ability to build worlds and create stories that they carry throughout every phase of their lives,” said Chairman, Universal Filmed Entertainment Group, Donna Langley. “To partner with such an iconic brand that remains relevant and is constantly evolving allows for creativity in storytelling. We’re thrilled to start building out the next chapter of LEGO movies together with Jill and the LEGO team as they continue to inspire curiosity and innovation.”
The original LEGO films that remain in the Warner Bros. library grossed a combined $1.1 billion globally. The outlet notes that Universal is hoping to cross-pollinate ideas with its own titles as building blocks to a resurgence in upcoming LEGO films, such as Jurassic Park, Universal’s classic movie monsters, and more.
“Universal’s commitment to unique storytelling from diverse voices makes the Studio the perfect partner as the LEGO Group enters this new phase of filmmaking,” added Jill Wilfert, Head of Entertainment of the LEGO Group. “Donna and the entire Universal team bring a sense of wonder and imagination we share, and we can’t wait to execute on our shared vision.”
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LEGO Group’s Wilfert will serve as producer on all LEGO projects developed and released by Universal. Rideback’s Dan Lin, who produced all of the previous LEGO films, and Jonathan Eirich will produce alongside Wilfert on the next LEGO-inspired film.
