Offbeat family fantasy moves ahead at a major studio
Dwayne Johnson will star as a whimsical septuagenarian nicknamed “Chicken Man” in Benny Safdie’s “Lizard Music,” which has found a home at Amazon MGM’s United Artists. The project adapts Daniel Pinkwater’s adored novel and reunites Johnson and Safdie following their collaboration on “The Smashing Machine.” United Artists nabbed rights in a competitive field, signaling confidence in an unconventional, all-ages adventure that blends late-night surrealism with heart. Safdie wrote the script and will direct, aiming to balance his indie sensibilities with broad, family appeal.

Why the package matters for 2026 slates
Studios are leaning on recognizable brands, but fresh IP that can travel globally is scarce. “Lizard Music” offers a rare, character-driven bet fronted by one of the world’s most bankable stars and a filmmaker known for kinetic realism. If early footage shows tonal harmony—gentle weirdness without edging too dark—the film could anchor Amazon’s family pipeline and fuel merchandising and streaming extensions. Casting for the boy lead and creature work vendors will set the production’s creative temperature. For Hollywood’s crowded calendar, a quirky, four-quadrant play could be a differentiator if schedules hold.