Synopsis
In the action thriller 'Matchbox,' Randeep Hooda shares the screen with John Cena. Directed by Sam Hargrave, the film follows childhood friends as they unite to prevent a global disaster, all while reconnecting with each other. The production is currently taking place in Budapest and features a stellar cast.Key Takeaways
- Randeep Hooda collaborates with John Cena in 'Matchbox.'
- Directed by Sam Hargrave, known for 'Extraction.'
- The film is inspired by Mattel's toy vehicle line.
- Production is happening in Budapest.
- Hooda is excited to work with Hargrave again.
Mumbai, Jan 24 (NationPress) Hindi cinema actor Randeep Hooda is set to share the screen with Hollywood icon John Cena in the much-anticipated action thriller “Matchbox.” The filming is taking place in Budapest.
The actor is reuniting with director Sam Hargrave of “Extraction” fame, marking their second partnership after the success of their 2020 Netflix film, according to variety.com.
“Matchbox” will revolve around a group of childhood friends who band together to avert an impending global catastrophe while rekindling their friendship.
This live-action adaptation, inspired by Mattel’s die-cast matchbox toy vehicle series, also features Teyonah Parris, Jessica Biel, and Sam Richardson. The production is actively happening in Budapest, where Hooda has joined the ensemble cast.
The film draws inspiration from the renowned toy vehicle line created by automotive enthusiast Jack Odell in 1953. Odell's daughter was permitted to take a toy to school only if it fit within a matchbox. This led to the creation of the “matchbox car”, which has become a beloved brand, with two Matchbox cars sold every second globally, as reported by Mattel.
Hooda expressed his enthusiasm about collaborating with Sam again, stating, “We had a great time on our first collaboration with ‘Extraction’. Sam is a master of high-octane storytelling and action. Glad to be joining the team in Budapest.”
Hargrave is directing “Matchbox” based on a screenplay penned by David Coggeshall and Jonathan Tropper. The film is produced by Skydance’s David Ellison and Dana Goldberg, alongside Don Granger and Robbie Brenner for Mattel Films.
Having worked on action-packed projects like “Avengers: Endgame,” “Infinity War,” “Thor: Ragnarok,” and DC’s “Suicide Squad,” Hargrave recently directed “Extraction 2.” His first collaboration with Hooda saw the Indian actor shine in a pivotal role as Saju alongside Chris Hemsworth.
Currently, Randeep, who directed and starred in 2024’s “Swatantrya Veer Savarkar,” is engaged with “Jaat” under Gopichand Malineni, featuring veteran actor Sunny Deol. The film is being produced by Mythri Movie Makers and People Media Factory.
The actor, married to Lin Laishram, is also set to appear in “Arjun Ustara” directed by acclaimed filmmaker Vishal Bhardwaj.
