Mattel Films Announce The First 'Bob The Builder' Film Starring Anthony Ramos
Mattel Films and Shadow Machine announced the official development of a new animated feature-length film for the popular children's TV series, 'Bob the Builder.'
Anthony Ramos, who played John Laurens in his breakout role in the Broadway play 'Hamilton,' is set to voice the lead role as Bob.
According to a Mattel News press release, the movie will depict Bob's "travels to the enchanting Island of Puerto Rico for a major construction job," when "he takes 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 film will incorporate a Latin spin, with press releases announcing the character's name is Roberto. Mattel stated the movie is "Imagined as an inventive international story for today's audiences."
Jennifer Lopez will co-produce the family film via her company Nuyorican Productions. The production company also released recently 'The Mother' (2023), 'Shotgun Wedding' (2022), and the critically acclaimed film 'Hustlers' (2019) — which grossed over 100 million at the box office.
"For years, Bob the Builder's characters have inspired young people around the world. 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," Ramos, 32, said in a statement.
The kid's favorite TV series aired in the U.S. during the Nick Jr. block from January 2005 through November 2015. Developed by Keith Chapman and animated by HOT Animation, physical models were used in a stop-motion art form to create the show.
'Bob the Builder' was nominated in BAFTA's Preschool Animation category from 1999-2009. The show won the Children's Animation category in 2003.
According to Mattel News, 'Bob the Builder' joins other Mattel Films in development including 'American Girl,' 'Hot Wheels,' 'Thomas & Friends,' amongst others.