Bob Trevino Likes It Director To Helm Tony The Tattooed Man For Mattel Studios

Tracie Laymon, acclaimed filmmaker and recent SXSW prize-winner for Bob Trevino Likes It, has been selected to write and direct a live-action adaptation of Tony the Tattooed Man for Mattel Studios. Originally launched in 1992, Tony the Tattooed Man was a muscular action figure designed with temporary tattoos that allowed users to customize his appearance. Although the toy had a brief market presence, it has since become a sought-after vintage collectible.

Laymon intends to reinterpret the action figure as the focal point of a character-driven drama that incorporates elements of surreal fantasy alongside emotional complexity. The project will be supervised by Darian Greenbaum and Steve Spohr of Mattel Studios, with Robbie Brenner producing on behalf of Mattel and Ivan Sanchez serving as an additional producer.

Brenner, Mattel Studios’ President and Chief Content Officer, said, “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.”

Mattel Studios has been very active, having recently announced a live-action Monster High movie project. The studio’s live-action feature Masters of the Universe, starring Nicholas Galitzine releases in North America on June 5, while a live-action Matchbox movie, starring John Cena, is also expected to debut in 2026.