Spin Master Corp. is bringing Bakugan to the big screen with a live-action feature film, enlisting San Andreas and Atlas director Brad Peyton to direct, write, and produce.
Peyton, along with Lindsay Harbert, is collaborating with Spin Master Entertainment to develop the screenplay for the film, which is based on the globally successful Bakugan franchise and its billion-dollar toy line.
Originally launched in 2007, Bakugan gained popularity through its successful toy line, an anime adventure series, digital content, and a well-received card game. Spin Master Entertainment has co-produced nearly 300 episodes of Bakugan, which have aired worldwide. The franchise’s toys are currently available in 100 countries.
Bakugan Movie in the Works
“Bakugan is a global franchise with a dedicated multi-generational fanbase, built on the strength of its compelling characters and action-packed battles,” said Jennifer Dodge, president of Spin Master Entertainment.
“As fans who grew up with Bakugan now enter adulthood, we are excited to collaborate with a visionary filmmaker like Brad to bring the franchise to live action, expanding its reach while introducing it to new audiences around the world.”
Peyton echoed that enthusiasm, stating, “Bakugan is primed for the big screen, and I’m beyond excited to be the one bringing it to life in live action for the first time.
With Lindsay and the Spin Master team by my side, we’re eager to build a franchise with global appeal. I have no doubt that we’ll create a must-see film event that stays true to the epic and unique world of Bakugan.”
Brad Peyton’s Track Record
A filmmaker with experience in both directing and producing, Peyton’s past work includes Netflix’s Atlas, starring Jennifer Lopez and Simu Liu, as well as Rampage, which grossed $428 million worldwide, and San Andreas, which became Dwayne Johnson’s highest-grossing original, non-franchise movie with $475 million in box office earnings.
On the television side, Peyton co-created Netflix’s post-apocalyptic comedy series Daybreak and directed the historical drama Frontier, starring Jason Momoa. He also founded ASAP Entertainment, which has produced Atlas, Rampage, Daybreak, and Frontier.
Spin Master’s Expanding Film Slate
The upcoming Bakugan movie adds to Spin Master’s growing list of feature films, which includes the third installment in the PAW Patrol franchise.
Set to be released in partnership with Paramount Pictures and Nickelodeon Movies in 2026, the third PAW Patrol film will feature EGOT winner Jennifer Hudson and comedian Fortune Feimster, alongside returning cast member Mckenna Grace, who reprises her role as Skye. The first two PAW Patrol films collectively earned more than $345 million at the global box office.
Peyton is represented by CAA, The Characters, and Sloane, Offer, Weber & Dern. Harbert is represented by CAA, Brooke Lindley, Gotham Group, and Del Shaw Moonves Tanaka Finkelstein Lezcano Bobb & Dang.