Vin Diesel set to star and produce live-action feature based on classic tabletop boxing game, Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em.

Classic tabletop boxing robots game Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots is to be turned into a live-action movie starring and produced by Vin Diesel. Mattel Films is behind the project and is partnering with Universal, while Vin Diesel will produce with his One Race Films label and partner Samantha Vincent.

The game, launched in 1966,  was inspired by an arcade boxing game that pitted Red Rocker against Blue Bomber in a match to knock the rival’s block off. The screenplay, written by Rampage and The Commuter’s Ryan Engle, follows a father and son who form an unlikely bond with an advanced war machine. Kevin McKeon will lead the project for Mattel Films.

“To take the classic Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em game, with Mattel as my partner, and align it with the kind of world-building, franchise-making success we have had with Universal is truly exciting,” said Vin Diesel.

“We are proud to bring this iconic piece of Mattel IP to life on the big screen with our tremendously talented partners Vin Diesel, One Race Films and Universal,” added Robbie Brenner, EP of Mattel Films. “Our rich library of franchises continues to yield compelling stories, and we look forward to creating what is sure to be a thrilling action adventure for the whole family to enjoy with Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots.”

Rock ‘Em Sock ‘Em Robots is the second feature project between Mattel Films and Universal Pictures, following a Wishbone movie based on the TV series. Other Mattel movies in the works include American Girl, Barbie, Barney, Hot Wheels, Magic 8-Ball, Major Matt Mason, Masters of the Universe, Thomas & Friends, Uno and View-Master.