Lena Dunham Thankfully Exits POLLY POCKET Movie
By Movieguide® Contributor
Writer and director Lena Dunham has officially backed out of the movie inspired by the beloved Polly Pocket toy.
“I’m not going to make the Polly Pocket movie,” Dunham told The New Yorker. “I wrote a script, and I was working on it for three years. But I remember someone once said to me about Nancy Meyers: the thing that’s the most amazing about her is that the movie she makes or the movie she would be making with or without a studio, with or without notes—that somehow her taste manages to intersect perfectly with what the world wants. And Nora Ephron, too, who was such a mentor to me, but always said, ‘Go be weird. Don’t kowtow to anyone.'”
She added, “I felt like, unless I can do it that way, I’m not going to do it. I don’t think I have that in me. I feel like the next movie I make needs to feel like a movie that I absolutely have to make. No one but me could make it. And I did think other people could make Polly Pocket.“
In 2021, Movieguide® reported on Dunhem’s enthusiasm to be part of the project, which would star Lily Collins:
“Polly Pocket was responsible for countless hours of childhood escapism for me – Polly gave me a tiny world of magic and autonomy to narrate, so it’s pretty poetic to be tackling these same ideas now as a director collaborating with the brilliant Lily Collins, Robbie Brenner, Mattel and MGM,” Dunham said. “I’m so thrilled to bring to bear both my love of this historic property and also my deep-seated belief that young women need smart playful films that speak to them without condescension.”
For those unfamiliar, Polly Pocket is, well, a pocket-sized doll that could go anywhere with you. She came with loads of accessories from clothing to pets. She was perfect for long road trips or Saturday afternoons.
“I’m so excited to partner with this inspiring powerhouse of a team. Developing this project with Robbie, Lena, Mattel and MGM to reintroduce Polly in a fun, modern way has been such a treat. As a child who was obsessed with Polly Pocket, this is a real dream come true and I can’t wait to bring these tiny toys to the big screen,” Collins said.
Regardless of Dunham’s participation, Mattel still plans to create the film.
“Polly Pocket is in active development, and we look forward to sharing updates on the project soon,” a representative from Mattel told The Hollywood Reporter. “Lena is a remarkable writer and creator and we wish her all the best!”
Perhaps Dunham’s exit from the movie is for the best, as she often stars in projects that promote immoral ideals and false worldviews. Movies featuring children’s toys should cater to families and promote positive, uplifting values.
