The tabletop and card game franchise Magic: The Gathering is set to reach a new level in pop culture with the report that a movie is in the works. The property began in 1993 as the first trading card game and since then has amassed tens of millions of players.
Now, according to Deadline, both Legendary Entertainment and Hasbro Entertainment are reportedly working together to create a Magic: The Gathering live-action film. If that wasn’t enough, the outlet also notes that a director is already in talks to helm the project.
Here’s what was shared:
“Matt Johnson is in pole position to direct the first film out of the live-action Magic: The Gathering universe.”
Other details are being kept under wraps at this time, though it seems to be that the project is still in early stages. In fact, the outlet mentions that neither Legendary nor Hasbro have actually made an offer for Johnson to direct. Rather, Matt Johnson is being placed at the top of their list to direct.
On that note, there isn’t any additional news including who will be writing the screenplay for the film. The most we know is that Magic: The Gathering is intended to be the basis for a new film and television universe prepared by Legendary and Hasbro. There’s certainly enough potential within the card game and table top universe, which previously paved the way for expansions, novels, and crossover events.
Hopefully we’ll have more news soon and confirmation regarding whether or not Matt Johnson will have signed on to direct the Magic: The Gathering live-action movie. At which point, it shouldn’t be long before a screenwriter is also attached to the project.
Stay tuned to ScreenGeek for any additional updates regarding the Magic: The Gathering movie as we have them. With the massive legacy that this franchise has to offer, it’s certainly important that Legendary and Hasbro get this project right.