Vin Diesel fans were certainly thrilled to learn back in 2021 that he became a part of the upcoming Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots movie, as star and producer.
And now, the action star, 58, is confirmed to also be the writer of Mattel’s movie adaptation of the tabletop boxing game, Deadline reports. The new live-action feature will bring to life the beloved pastime and its dueling characters: Red Rocker and Blue Bomber.
“I am excited to expand the Mattel universe by bringing this classic toy from my childhood to a modern audience by telling a story that examines the role of competition in a world often measured by strength and dominance that dares to reveal the power of compassion at its core,” Diesel said in a statement, per Deadline.
“Vin is a powerhouse storyteller with an unmatched understanding of action, heart, and world-building,” said Robbie Brenner, president of Mattel Studios and chief content officer, who is also producing the movie, according to Deadline. “His creative vision for Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots is bold, human, and deeply cinematic — exactly the kind of storytelling we love at Mattel Studios.”
Mattel is undoubtedly trying to chase the success of Barbie at Warner Bros. in 2023, which was that studio’s highest grossing movie ever at $1.44 billion. In the meantime, Mattel Studios has a live-action feature take of popular toy franchise Masters of the Universe in the works, which will hit theaters on June 5, 2026.
Diesel, meanwhile, made headlines last week when he paid tribute to his Fast & Furious co-star Paul Walker on the 12th anniversary of the late actor’s death. On Nov. 29, Diesel posted a throwback photo on Instagram, showing a quiet moment between the two on what appears to be a movie set.
“Twelve years… Not a day goes by… Miss you,” Diesel wrote in the caption alongside the picture.
