Fast and Furious star Vin Diesel has set his sights on another action-packed franchise, revealing his involvement in the upcoming adaptation of the classic toy game Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots. First announced in 2021, the film will see Mattel Films collaborate with Universal Pictures and Diesel’s own One Race Films for a live-action version of the beloved game, where players control two dueling robot boxers by smashing buttons until one robot’s head pops off.
While the idea of a film based on Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots might initially raise eyebrows, the adaptation is expected to share similarities with the 2011 sci-fi action film Real Steel, which successfully brought robot boxing to the big screen. Diesel’s specific role in the movie remains uncertain, as it is not yet clear whether he will portray a human character or a robot. However, the actor took to Instagram to express his enthusiasm for the project, stating it is “Childhood dreams coming to life…” and sharing an image of what the robots might resemble in live-action.
Created in the early 1960s, Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots has entertained generations. The tabletop game features two robot boxers, Red Rocker and Blue Bomber, each manipulated by players using buttons and a simple joystick. The objective is to knock the opponent’s head off, a challenge that Diesel has humorously faced in his career against stars like The Rock and Jason Statham, making the film a fitting match for his persona.
The screenplay for Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots will be penned by Ryan Engle, known for his work on films such as Rampage and the action-packed Liam Neeson titles Non-Stop and The Commuter. While specific details about the live-action adaptation are still scarce, Robbie Brenner, Head of Mattel Films, has indicated that Diesel is “excited” to enter the ring. “Vin is excited. We’re working on developing a script and we’re all very excited about it,” Brenner mentioned in a conversation with Variety in 2023.
This film is just one piece of Mattel’s expansive vision for a cinematic universe, with a staggering 14 projects currently in development. These include sequels to Barbie, a new Barney movie, Polly Pocket, American Girl, Hot Wheels, Magic 8 Ball, Masters of the Universe, Wishbone, Thomas & Friends, and more. As diesel gears up for Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots, he is also poised to conclude the Fast and Furious franchise, with the eleventh installment set for release in 2026. Additionally, Diesel will reprise his role as Richard B. Riddick in a fourth film, Riddick: Furya, which is yet to be given a release date.
Vin Diesel’s exciting new role in Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots not only marks a thrilling addition to his impressive filmography but also highlights the growing trend of adapting classic games into mainstream films, aiming to capture the nostalgia of audiences while introducing thrilling narratives to a new generation. As fans await further updates on the upcoming film, Diesel’s involvement promises a blend of action and playfulness that is sure to mark a noteworthy entry in his illustrious career.
