Bob The Builder is to be reborn as Roberto for a new animated film, made by Jennifer Lopez’s Nuyorican Productions, Barbie’s Mattel Films and ShadowMachine.
The feature-length production will star Grammy-winning and Golden Globe and Emmy-nominated actor and recording artist Anthony Ramos (Hamilton, In the Heights).
Ramos also produces alongside Alex Bulkley and Corey Campodonico of the Academy Award-winning animation and production studio, ShadowMachine. ShadowMachine was behind Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio and BoJack Horseman.
“For years, Bob the Builder’s characters have inspired young people around the world,” said Ramos.
“I’m proud to partner with Mattel Films, ShadowMachine, Nuyorican Productions, and Felipe Vargas to bring this important message to the big screen, adding elements of life that are inspired by my own. A movie about friends working together, a celebration of a beautiful home they share, and how love can help to conquer any obstacle in your way. Can we fix it? Yes, we can!”
Bob The Builder was originally made by HIT Entertainment, with the animation carried out by Manchester-based HOT Animation – which closed before HIT was acquired by Mattel.
“We are thrilled to collaborate with our brilliant partners Anthony Ramos, Jennifer Lopez, Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas, Benny Medina, Alex Bulkley, Corey Campodonico, and Felipe Vargas on Bob the Builder, our first animated theatrical film,” added Robbie Brenner, President of Mattel Films.
“Pairing Anthony and Felipe’s genius vision for the story with ShadowMachine and Nuyorican’s artisan approach will capture this beloved character in a manner that audiences who grew up with Bob will recognise, and all-new audiences will enjoy.”
Jennifer Lopez, Elaine Goldsmith-Thomas, and Benny Medina’s Nuyorican Production is behind productions including The Mother, Shotgun Wedding, Hustlers, Marry Me.
Felipe Vargas (Rosario, Loteria) is attached as the writer for the film which will follow Roberto “Bob” as he travels to Puerto Rico for a major construction job, taking on issues affecting the island and digs deeper into what it means to build. Bob’s journey will celebrate the vibrant and colorful textures of the Caribbean Latin nations and their people.
“The show’s ability to promote positive thinking, problem solving and empowerment with a completely original story set in Puerto Rico puts a new spin on a beloved brand, and we can’t wait for new and existing fans to connect with these amazing characters,” stated Goldsmith-Thomas.
Mattel Films’ first theatrical release, Greta Gerwig’s Barbie, became the highest grossing film of 2023.
