A Hello Kitty movie is officially in development, with Japanese design company Sanrio giving film rights to Warner Bros.’ label New Line Cinema and FlynnPictureCo. to produce the first ever Hello Kitty English-language feature film. For a long time, Sanrio was content to keep their iconic cartoon cat close to home, so this decision might mean the start of a new era for the Hello Kitty franchise.
The film has been confirmed to feature other Sanrio characters (it’s usually called Hello Kitty and friends for a reason) although whether or not the film will be animated or getting the live-action treatment is still uncertain. Nonetheless, the film has already appointed a producer and executive produce–Beau Flynn and FlynnPictureCo.’s Wendy Jacobson respectively.
There will a lot of pressure for the filmmakers to get this movie right; Hello Kitty has been a household name since the 1970s, beloved by children and adults alike. The character has appeared in many forms of media, and has produced many, many products and merchandises that range from high-end to the everyday low-end. There are also themed cafes and theme parks dedicated to the adorable feline, among others.
Both New Line and Sanrio has expressed optimism for this new partnership and both parties are looking forward to spreading Hello Kitty’s message of friendship and family values to people around the world.
Kristine Poh is an intern at IGN SEA who loves cats and the color pink but haven't considered both together.
