After Neon acquired his film, Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie, Matt Johnson is in a prime position to helm the inaugural feature film set in the Magic: The Gathering live-action universe. This initiative is being brought to life by Legendary Entertainment and Hasbro Entertainment, according to industry sources.

Project Details and Development Stage

While the studios have not made an official offer to Johnson, insiders indicate he is the preferred candidate for the director’s chair. As discussions are still in the early phases, there are no specifics available regarding the plot or the screenplay writer. The collaboration between Legendary and Hasbro was officially announced in February, marking the beginning of an ambitious plan to produce a cohesive film and television universe based on the beloved trading card game.

The Allure of Magic: The Gathering

Recognized as Hasbro’s first $1 billion brand, Magic: The Gathering has captivated over 50 million fans since its inception in 1993. The game allows players to assume the role of planeswalkers—potent spellcasters who summon creatures and cast spells to vanquish opponents. Over the years, it has blossomed into a multifaceted global phenomenon encompassing tournaments, competitive circuits, and a robust secondary market for rare cards. Its expansive lore, set in a rich multiverse, has diversified through various card sets, novels, and even collaborations with franchises like Dungeons & Dragons and Lord of the Rings.

Johnson’s Rising Status in Filmmaking

If the deal for Magic: The Gathering materializes, Johnson will join the ranks of innovative indie filmmakers transitioning into major studio projects. He gained notable recognition with his 2023 documentary-drama BlackBerry, which chronicles the ascent and collapse of the iconic smartphone and garnered accolades at the Berlinale, alongside being named one of the Top Ten Independent Films of 2023 by the National Board of Review.

Recent Works and Future Endeavors

Recently, Johnson co-wrote, directed, and starred in Nirvanna the Band the Show the Movie, a comedy that expands on a previous Canadian series, set to debut in theaters shortly. His filmmaking portfolio also includes the Sundance-premiering conspiracy thriller Operation Avalanche. Additionally, he has been associated with A24’s upcoming biopic about Anthony Bourdain, titled Tony, which stars Dominic Sessa; however, the current status of that project remains unclear.

Representation

Johnson is represented by Creative Artists Agency (CAA) and Akin, Gump, Strauss, Hauer & Feld.