We all know how Hollywood loves to adapt long-standing, nostalgic IPs, and this next one is going to be a doozy. Filmmaker M. Night Shyamalan (“Knock At The Cabin”) is attached to direct a new series based on Mattel‘s Magic 8 Ball toy. Shyamalan is co-creating and co-showrunning the series with Emmy winner Brad Falchuk (“American Horror Story”).
“Magic 8 Ball” was announced via an image of the pilot script under the toy, posted to Shyamalan’s Instagram.
The new series aims to reimagine the classic toy as the centerpiece of a high-concept, character-driven supernatural drama. That will blend psychological intensity with cultural intrigue.
The Magic 8 Ball was first introduced by Mattel in 1950. These toys look like oversized 8 balls and contain a die with different answers on each side suspended in liquid. To play, the user asks a simple question, shakes the ball, and their fate is revealed through a clear viewing window.
They have become a pop culture staple in offices and toy chests across America, selling over 1 million units. Given its lasting power in the cultural zeitgeist and ties to the mystic, it makes it the perfect inspiration for some fate-based drama.
We’ll keep you posted on the “Magic 8 Ball” series as it develops.
