EXCLUSIVE
Norwegian filmmaker Harald Zwart ("The Karate Kid") is attached to direct Universal Pictures' "Bakugan," the studio has confirmed to TheWrap.
The film is based on the popular strategic game and anime series "Bakugan Battle Brawlers," which features marble-like balls that transform into powerful monsters when rolled on game cards.
In 2009, Bakugan Battle Brawlers was named 'Toy of the Year' for the second consecutive year by the Toy Industry Association.
Scott Stuber will produce "Bakugan: through his Universal-based production company, Stuber Pictures, whose Jon Mone will exec produce.
Ronnen Harary of Spin Master Ltd. will also produce the project, which will be overseen by Universal execs Jeff Kirschenbaum and Anikah McLaren.
While Zwart previously directed "One Night at McCool's," "Agent Cody Banks" and "The Pink Panther 2," his newfound Hollywood heat stems from the surprise success of Columbia's "Karate Kid" reboot earlier this year. The film grossed an astounding $358 million worldwide on a production budget of just $40 million.
Zwart remains on board to exec produce Sony's "RollerCoaster Tycoon," having served the same function on the 2009 Norwegian horror-comedy "Dead Snow."
Zwart is represented by ICM.
