LOS ANGELES – Greek-American actress/producer Rita Wilson is reportedly producing, along with Bron Studios and Rare Bird Films, a film about Barbie creator Ruth Handler, Broadway World reported. Titled Dream Doll, the film, based on Handler’s memoir Dream Doll: The Ruth Handler Story, is currently being written by Academy Award nominee Melisa Wallack.
Handler founded Mattel, created the iconic Barbie doll, and became one of the first women in charge of a Fortune 500 company. Her remarkable success story is certainly an inspirational one.
Handler’s daughter Barbara and granddaughter Cheryl Segal told Broadway World, “The world should know about the phenomenal woman behind the doll. We have chosen to work with Rita Wilson, Cristan Crocker, Andrea Nevins and BRON Studios to bring Ruth’s story to life. Working with them on this project seemed like a perfect fit because we feel that they recognize just how inspiring and empowering Ruth was.
“Everyone knows the iconic Barbie, which, after more than sixty years, continues to be one of the most globally successful dolls. But few know the story of the inspiring, innovative, passionate woman who defied odds to create her. Ruth Handler’s story awes, empowers, and sometimes infuriates. What an honor it is to be part of the team that will bring Ruth’s autobiography to the screen. I am so thankful to the Handler and Segal families for trusting us with this incredible woman’s life,” said Wilson, Broadway World reported.
As a producer, Wilson is extremely successful having discovered Nia Vardalo’s one-woman show, My Big Fat Greek Wedding, which led to the 2002 film adaptation that eventually earned $368 million at the box office worldwide, Broadway World reported, adding that the film’s sequel, also produced by Wilson, earned $88 million. Among other hit films, Wilson secured the rights to Mama Mia! after seeing the musical in London and served as executive producer on the hit film and its hit sequel.