Warner Bros. Animation to develop animated film based on Funko Pop! figures

Last Updated on August 2, 2021

For more than twenty years, Funko Inc. has been manufacturing toys and collectible figures based on some of pop culture's most beloved characters and properties. It all began when Funko founder Mike Becker released a nostalgia-fueled bobblehead line called Wacky Wobblers. The first item in that line was the Big Boy bobblehead, which as time ticked by, helped pave the way for an army of collectible figures to storm every comic shop, convenience store and convention center on the planet. As of 2019, more than 25,000 retail outlets across the globe that sell Funko Pop! figurines, and today we've received word that Warner Bros. Animation Group has optioned the rights to Funko.

So, what do you do when you purchase one of the most recognizable brands on toy store shelves? You make a movie out of it, that's what! That's right, folks. After securing the rights to Funko, Warner Animation Group plans to develop and produce an animated film based on the mega-popular toy brand.

According to Deadline's exclusive report, Allison Abbate, Executive VP of Warner Animation Group, will manage the partnership on behalf of the studio. When speaking about bringing Funko's wide array of characters to life on the big screen, Abbate remarked that Funko's “fresh take on Pop culture, make these figurines incredibly appealing to fans of all ages.”

Meanwhile, on behalf of Funko, the company's CEO said: “We’re thrilled for this opportunity and are committed to make an amazing Funko movie that stands on its own merit. This isn’t about selling toys or building a brand. The team at Warner Animation Group have a unique vision of what the first film should be and we are extremely excited to take this journey alongside them.”

Someone cue up "For the Love of Money" by The O'Jays, because Funko and Warners are poised to make a boatload of the stuff courtesy of this new endeavor. Admittedly, I own upward of 300 Funko Pop! figurines, maybe more. While that's a drop in the pot when compared to some collectors, I do admit to being a Funko addict of sorts. I've managed to kick my addiction though, and have lived relatively Funko-free for the past year or so. While I've managed to wriggle my way to freedom from Funko's mighty grasp, some collector's are still neck deep in the collectible craze. I'm positive that Funko fans the world over will be overjoyed  this new project, especially since it's bound to spawn a whole new generation of toys to collect and then some.

Be mindful, my friends, Funko and WB are coming for your wallet like never before. As your attorney I advise you to maintain your composure, and limit your amount of surrender to this exciting feature project. You can do it. I believe in you.