It’s Slinky, it’s Slinky! Oh what a wonderful toy! It’s Slinky, it’s Slinky! Fun for a girl or a boy.
There was a time not too long ago when Hollywood was just obsessed with making blockbuster movies based on board games and toys. We’ve mostly gotten through that unscathed (Battleship still hurts a little bit), but just when we thought we were out, they’ve pulled us back in with a Slinky movie. But this isn’t a blockbuster action flick or anything; it’s a drama and an origin story.
Variety reports that a movie is in the works about the famous spring-coiled toy that can walk down steps and, if you’re not careful, imprison you in its deadly coils. The film will be directed by Tamra Davis, best known for her work on Billy Madison, with a script by Chris Sivertson, Cristina Curbelo and Ann Carli.
The story will focus on the creation of the Slinky by naval engineer Richard James and his wife Betty in 1943. Judging by what Davis had to say, the focus will be on Betty, a successful inventor and businesswoman who took over the company after her husband’s death.
“I am so thrilled to have the opportunity to tell the story of Betty James; a female inventor, business woman and dedicated mother who with her husband Dick James invented the Slinky. When I read her story, I was so inspired by the ups and downs of their rags to riches tale. I had no idea the iconic toy told the story of American innovation, domestic drama and the rise of the female executive. Betty James’ life is a moment in American history where women proved they could not only survive in the face of despair but flourish when the opportunity presented itself. I immediately connected with Betty James. She was an intrepid woman who’s goal in life was to create joy and make people happy.”
While Davis has done loads of TV including episodes of Dead to Me, Santa Clarita Diet, and Stargirl, she hasn’t helmed a feature since 2002’s Crossroads. Yeah, the Britney Spears joint. At least she also gave us Half-Baked, one of the best stoner comedies ever.
Slinky remains incredibly popular, partially due to the Slinky Dog character in Pixar’s Toy Story movies.