Iconic ’80s Monster Toy That Inspired Pokemon Getting Live-Action Series
According to Deadline, the people have asked for new live-action content rooted in nostalgia and Hollywood producers are more than happy to oblige. Monster In My Pocket is the latest toy brand to be made into a live-action series. While only kids from the ‘90s will be old enough to remember this franchise, rumor has it that it’s already inspired a different series that you’re sure to be familiar with: Pokemon.
Monster In My Pocket introduced a collection of over 200 miniature monsters inspired by global myths and legends.
Well, okay, there’s no official record stating that Satoshi Tajiri was inspired directly by the 1989 Mattel toy. However, the two brands share quite a few similarities with the idea of pocket-sized creatures and Pokemon suspiciously sounds like a portmanteau for “Monster In My Pocket.”
Nevertheless, the Mattel toy is about to have its chance to shine in the spotlight with Westbrook Studios, owned by Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith, which has partnered with Altar Rock Pictures to collaborate on the development of a live-action series adaptation.
Monster In My Pocket, conceived by former Mattel executives Joe Morrison and John Weems, introduced a collection of over 200 miniature monsters inspired by global myths and legends. Launched in 1989, the brand quickly gained popularity and went on to sell over 500 million units worldwide. Its success led to adaptations, including an animated TV special on ABC, comic books, and even a Nintendo game.
The recent collaboration between Westbrook Studios and Altar Rock Pictures aims to breathe new life into this classic brand by developing a live-action series. The Monster In My Pocket project, currently in its early stages, has sparked excitement among fans who grew up with these pocket-sized creatures.
The two brands share quite a few similarities with the idea of pocket-sized creatures and Pokemon suspiciously sounds like a portmanteau for “Monster In My Pocket.”
Monster In My Pocket was an extremely popular toy brand and for decades people have wondered if it might have been an inspiration for another famous franchise featuring little monsters. After all, the word “Pokemon” itself is a portmanteau of “Pocket” and “Monsters” and both franchises have a focus on collecting and battling these little creatures.
The creator of Pokemon, Satoshi Tajiri was even sued for the similarities, but a judge ruled there was no infringement, indicating that the popular anime and video game franchise likely wasn’t inspired by the American toys.
When speaking about the upcoming live-action project, David Boorstein, SVP, Head of Scripted TV at Westbrook, expressed the studio’s enthusiasm for projects rooted in nostalgia. He believes that the rich, captivating legends of the beloved Monster In My Pocket characters will be brought to life in a way that resonates with both new and old audiences.
Altar Rock Pictures joining with Westbrook Studios is a powerhouse partnership. Altar Rock Pictures has experience in creating successful franchises based on toys like Transformers and Westbrook Studios is responsible for successful series based on nostalgia like Bel-Air and Kobra-Kai.
The Mattel toy is about to have its chance to shine in the spotlight with Westbrook Studios, owned by Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith, which has partnered with Altar Rock Pictures to collaborate on the development of a live-action series adaptation.
The collaboration between these two, along with the involvement of Morrison Entertainment Group (MEG), promises to deliver a high-quality live-action series that pays homage to the original Monster In My Pocket toy line.
Monster In My Pocket may have been a childhood obsession for many, but its legacy extends far beyond mere nostalgia. As Westbrook Studios and Altar Rock Pictures embark on this new venture, they are not just reimagining a classic brand; they are continuing the legacy of a phenomenon that built memories for a generation of children.
