We have all had that hidden desire deep within us to fly like Superman, run like The Flash, solve mysteries like Batman, or play Uno reverse cards like Lil Yachty. Wait, what? If you haven't experienced that last one, you soon will as Mattel is actively developing their narrative-less card game Uno into a feature film starring Zoomer-famous musician Lil Yachty.
The script by Marcy Kelly calls for a live-action heist comedy set in the underground hip hop world of Atlanta with Grammy-nominated rapper Lil Yachty eyeing a starring role.
“At Mattel Films, we are looking to explore stories that bring our brands to life in unexpected ways,” said executive producer Robbie Brenner. “UNO is a game that transcends generations and cultures and we look forward to partnering with Lil Yachty, as well as with Coach, P and Brian Sher, to transform the classic UNO game into a comedic action-adventure.”
“I’m so excited to be part of this film with Mattel,” added Yachty. “I played UNO as a kid and still do today, so to spin that into a movie based on the Atlanta hip hop scene I came out of is really special. It hits close to home for me.”
Conceived in 1971 in a barbershop in Cincinnati, Ohio, by Merle Robbins, Uno is an American shedding-type card game that is played with a specially printed deck. The goal is to score 500 points, which is achieved after engaging in a series of card exchanges, with some cards able to change the rules of the game at a moment's notice.
Mattel will produce with Lil Yachty. Meanwhile, Quality Control’s Kevin “Coach K” Lee, Pierre “P” Thomas, and Brian Sher will produce through Quality Films. Kevin McKeon will act as supervising producer and will lead the project for Mattel.
Taken at face value, the thought of bringing Uno to the big screen doesn't inspire much excitement. However, the game of Uno does have an inspiring origin story behind it, so perhaps this will be a worthwhile endeavor after all? I mean, with movies based on Barbie, Hot Wheels, Magic 8 Ball, and View Master all on the way, why not deal Uno into the mix?