Randeep Hooda Reunites with Director Sam Hargrave for Action Thriller ‘Matchbox’

Bollywood Star Joins a Star-Studded Cast in the Live-Action Film Inspired by Mattel’s Iconic Toy Line, Set to Begin Production in Budapest

Bollywood superstar Randeep Hooda is reuniting with renowned director Sam Hargrave for the upcoming Apple Original Films action thriller Matchbox. This marks their second collaboration following their successful partnership in the 2020 Netflix hit Extraction.

The live-action film, which is based on Mattel’s iconic die-cast Matchbox toy vehicle line, also stars John Cena, Teyonah Parris, Jessica Biel, and Sam Richardson. Currently in production in Budapest, Matchbox sees Hooda joining the impressive ensemble cast.

Hargrave, known for his high-octane action direction, will bring the screenplay by David Coggeshall (The Family Plan) and Jonathan Tropper (The Adam Project) to life. The film is being produced by Skydance’s David Ellison and Dana Goldberg, alongside Don Granger and Robbie Brenner of Mattel Films.

Matchbox follows a group of childhood friends who must unite to prevent a looming global disaster, rediscovering their lost friendships in the process. The movie draws inspiration from Mattel’s toy line, which originated in 1953. The brand was created when automotive enthusiast Jack Odell’s daughter wanted to bring a toy car to school but was required to fit it inside a matchbox. This led to the creation of Matchbox cars, which have since become a staple in the toy industry, with two Matchbox cars sold every second worldwide, according to Mattel.

Hooda expressed his excitement about working with Hargrave again, saying, “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.”

Sam Hargrave, who has an extensive background in action and stunt coordination for Marvel’s Avengers: Endgame, Infinity War, Thor: Ragnarok, and DC’s Suicide Squad, recently directed Extraction 2. Hargrave’s first collaboration with Hooda in Extraction saw the actor deliver a standout performance as Saju alongside Chris Hemsworth.