Tracie Laymon Takes on the Writing and Directing of Live-Action ‘Tony The Tattooed Man’ for Mattel Studios
Filmmaker Tracie Laymon to Direct Live-Action Adaptation of ‘Tony the Tattooed Man’
Tracie Laymon, acclaimed for her recent work on the SXSW award-winning film Bob Trevino Likes It, has been tapped to write and direct a live-action feature based on the classic action figure, Tony the Tattooed Man, for Mattel Studios.
Originally launched in 1992, Tony the Tattooed Man was notable for his muscle-bound physique and the interactive feature allowing children to adorn him with temporary tattoos. Despite its brief market presence, the toy has gained rarity and value as a vintage collectible over the years.
Laymon envisions transforming the cult-favorite character into the heart of a drama that intertwines surreal fantasy with profound emotional narratives. The project will be managed by Darian Greenbaum and Steve Spohr at Mattel Studios, with Robbie Brenner producing in collaboration with Ivan Sanchez.
Brenner, Mattel Studios’ President and Chief Content Officer, expressed confidence in Laymon’s capabilities: “After seeing Bob Trevino Likes It and the specificity and emotional depth that Tracie brings to her characters, I knew that she was the perfect person to develop Tony the Tattooed Man. It’s a story that feels especially relevant today, one that explores looking beyond first impressions and leading with empathy.”
In her own words, Laymon remarked, “I was immediately drawn to Tony the Tattooed Man from the minute I saw his name and then learned about his short-lived journey as a discontinued toy. His story is a reminder of the healing power of second chances and not judging a book – or a person – by their cover, a message I believe the world needs right now. It is an honor to partner with Mattel, who are true allies for artists, on a film that will help restore our faith in humanity.”
Laymon’s breakout feature, Bob Trevino Likes It, which stars John Leguizamo and Barbie Ferreira, premiered at the 2024 SXSW Film Festival, garnering both the Grand Jury Award for Best Narrative Feature and the Audience Award. The film tells the story of a lonely young woman who connects online with a stranger sharing her father’s name. It was subsequently acquired by Roadside Attractions and released in theaters in March of the previous year.
A Texas native, Laymon spent part of her teenage years in Russia before returning to the U.S. for her college education. As an advocate for gender diversity and the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in the film industry, she aims to amplify diverse perspectives through underdog narratives. Alongside Tony the Tattooed Man, she’s currently developing her next original feature.
In recent developments, Mattel Studios has also engaged Hannah Hafey and Kaitlin Smith to write their upcoming live-action Monster High movie. The studio’s eagerly anticipated Masters of the Universe, starring Nicholas Galitzine, is set to release in North America on June 5, following the cultural phenomenon Barbie in 2023. Additionally, a live-action Matchbox movie featuring John Cena is expected to debut in 2026.
Laymon is represented by Verve, Artists First, and Yorn, Barnes, Levine.
