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Tracie Laymon, the filmmaker behind the recent SXSW prize winning feature Bob Trevino Likes It, has been tapped to write and direct a live action adaptation of Tony the Tattooed Man for Mattel Studios. The project marks another step in Mattel’s expanding push to reimagine its classic and cult favorite toys for the screen through character driven storytelling.
Tony the Tattooed Man was first introduced in 1992 as a muscle bound action figure designed to be customized by kids. The toy came with soluble temporary tattoos that could be applied by hand, allowing children to decorate and redesign Tony’s body again and again. Although the figure was only on the market for a short time, it has since gained a second life as a rare and sought after vintage collectible, remembered for its unusual concept and hands on creativity.
Laymon plans to reimagine Tony the Tattooed Man as the centerpiece of a character focused drama that blends surreal fantasy with emotional depth. According to Mattel Studios, the film will explore themes of empathy, second chances, and the importance of looking beyond first impressions. The project will be overseen by Darian Greenbaum and Steve Spohr for Mattel Studios, with Robbie Brenner producing on behalf of Mattel. Ivan Sanchez is also attached as a producer.
Robbie Brenner, President and Chief Content Officer of Mattel Studios, praised Laymon’s storytelling voice and emotional sensitivity. She noted that after seeing Bob Trevino Likes It, it was clear that Laymon was the right filmmaker to bring Tony the Tattooed Man to life. Brenner described the story as one that feels especially relevant today, emphasizing its message of compassion and understanding in a world that often judges too quickly.
Laymon shared that she was immediately drawn to the project after learning about the toy’s short lived history. She described Tony the Tattooed Man as a symbol of healing and redemption, and said the story reflects her belief in the power of second chances. For Laymon, the film is not just about a forgotten toy, but about restoring faith in humanity and reminding audiences not to judge people by their outward appearance.
Laymon’s breakout feature Bob Trevino Likes It premiered at the 2024 SXSW Film Festival, where it won both the Grand Jury Award for Best Narrative Feature and the Audience Award. The film stars John Leguizamo and Barbie Ferreira and follows a lonely young woman who forms an unexpected online friendship with a stranger who shares her father’s name. The film was later acquired by Roadside Attractions and released theatrically in March of last year.
A Texas native, Laymon spent part of her teenage years living in Russia before returning to the United States for college. She has become known as a strong advocate for gender diversity and disability representation both on screen and behind the camera. Her work often centers on underdog characters and overlooked voices, a creative focus that aligns closely with the themes she plans to explore in Tony the Tattooed Man. In addition to this project, Laymon is currently writing her next original feature.
The Tony the Tattooed Man film joins a growing slate of Mattel Studios projects. The studio recently enlisted Hannah Hafey and Kaitlin Smith to write a live action Monster High movie. Mattel’s first major live action release following the success of Barbie is Masters of the Universe, starring Nicholas Galitzine and set for release by Amazon MGM in June. A live action Matchbox film starring John Cena is also expected to arrive in 2026.
Laymon is represented by Verve, Artists First, and Yorn, Barnes, Levine.
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