From blockbuster movies to binge-worthy TV shows, Sacha rounds up the biggest news from the worlds of toys, games, comics and screen adaptations. Grab some popcorn and catch up on everything you might have missed this week.
'Jumanji: Open World' trailer brings the game into the real world
The first trailer has arrived, reuniting Dwayne Johnson, Jack Black, Kevin Hart and Karen Gillan for one final adventure. This time, the game's iconic avatars escape into the real world, turning everyday life into total chaos. Based on Chris Van Allsburg's beloved 1981 children's book, the fifth and final 'Jumanji' film arrives in cinemas this Christmas.
'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' swings to one of the biggest openings in box office history
'Spider-Man: Brand New Day' has smashed expectations at the global box office, earning an incredible US$927 million in its opening weekend. That makes it the second-biggest opening of all time, behind only 'Avengers: Endgame', and the biggest film debut of 2026 so far. It also marks another huge milestone for Tom Holland's Spider-Man, proving the web-slinger is as popular as ever.
'Gabby's Dollhouse' welcomes Gabby's little sister, Doozie
The world of Gabby's Dollhouse is about to get even cuter! Gabby's younger sister, Doozie, is officially joining the hit Netflix series from Season 14. After being teased in Gabby's Dollhouse: The Movie, she'll bring plenty of sibling adventures, imagination and heartwarming fun when the new season premieres on 14 September.
First trailer arrives for 'Matchbox: The Movie'
The first trailer for 'Matchbox: The Movie' has raced onto the scene, giving fans a glimpse at the action-packed adaptation of Mattel's iconic toy cars. Starring John Cena, Jessica Biel and an all-star cast, the film follows a group of childhood friends who are pulled into a globe-trotting mission to save the world. The movie premieres on 9 October.
'Barbie 2' hits a major roadblock
Plans for 'Barbie 2' have reportedly stalled as Warner Bros. struggles to finalise new deals with Margot Robbie, Ryan Gosling and director Greta Gerwig. While Gerwig and co-writer Noah Baumbach are said to have an idea for the sequel, negotiations remain at a standstill, putting the future of the blockbuster follow-up in doubt.
Monopoly Series Passes ‘Go’ at Netflix
The world's most famous board game is coming to life, with Netflix officially announcing a reality competition series based on 'Monopoly'. Twelve contestants will battle it out in a life-sized Monopoly town, buying properties, making deals and trying to avoid bankruptcy, all for the chance to win a US$2 million prize. Casting is now open, with the series set to premiere in 2027.
'Far Cry' TV adaptation adds Lizzy Caplan to the cast
The upcoming TV adaptation of Ubisoft's hit video game franchise 'Far Cry' has added Lizzy Caplan to its cast alongside Rob Mac. Plot and character details are still being kept under wraps, but the anthology series will tell a brand-new story each season, just like the games. The series is being developed by 'Fargo' creator Noah Hawley, with no release date announced yet.
A sequel to the 'Dungeons & Dragons' movie has already been written
Fans hoping for another adventure with the cast of 'Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves' may have to keep waiting.
Co-director Jonathan Goldstein has revealed that a sequel script has already been written, but says it's unlikely to move forward due to the high cost of making fantasy films. Despite the uncertainty, he says the team loves the cast and believes fans would enjoy the story they've created.
'Cars' celebrates 20 years with a new YouTube series
To celebrate the 20th anniversary of Pixar's 'Cars', a brand-new YouTube series is hitting the road this September. The series will take fans on a journey down the real Route 66, exploring the people and places that inspired Radiator Springs and the beloved film. The announcement was made by Pixar creative director Jay Ward as part of the franchise's anniversary celebrations.
'Life Is Strange' TV series casts its Max and Chloe
The upcoming TV adaptation of the beloved video game 'Life Is Strange' has officially found its leads. Tatum Grace Hopkins will star as Max Caulfield, while Maisy Stella has been cast as Chloe Price. Based on the award-winning game about a teenager who discovers she can rewind time, the series is being developed by Prime Video with Margot Robbie's LuckyChap Entertainment among the production team.
That's all for this week's 'Play to Screen Report'. Which story are you most excited about? Let us know in the comments, and we'll be back next week with another roundup of the biggest play-to-screen news.
