Maya Hawke is trading the Upside Down for a world of spells, mythical creatures, and magical battles. The Stranger Things star has joined the cast of Magic: The Gathering, a live-action film from Legendary Entertainment based on Hasbro's hugely popular trading card game.
Matt Johnson is directing the project, but Hawke's character remains under wraps. Johnson is also writing the adaptation alongside Noah Gardner and Aidan Fitzgerald.
The production team is aiming to capture the expansive lore that has defined the brand for over three decades. First launched in 1993, Magic: The Gathering has grown far beyond its original card-game format, expanding into digital games, publishing, streaming, live events, and merchandise.
Its universe has also welcomed crossover collaborations with major franchises, including Marvel, Final Fantasy, Star Trek, and The Lord of the Rings. Hawke has plenty keeping her busy outside the fantasy world.
She is set to appear in The Hunger Games: Sunrise on the Reaping, the romantic comedy Wishful Thinking, and Netflix's God of the Woods. Her career trajectory continues to climb as she balances blockbuster roles with indie projects.
Her previous credits include Inside Out 2, Asteroid City, Do Revenge, and Once Upon a Time in Hollywood. These roles have solidified her reputation as a versatile actress capable of handling both voice-over work and complex live-action performances.
Legendary Entertainment's upcoming slate also includes Dune: Part 3, a Street Fighter adaptation, and the comedy Animal Friends. The studio is betting heavily on established intellectual properties to drive future box office success.
Industry analysts suggest that Hawke's involvement will likely draw a younger demographic to the Magic: The Gathering film. Her massive social media following and critical acclaim from Stranger Things make her a strategic casting choice for the studio.
As production gears up, fans are speculating about which iconic character from the card game Hawke might portray. The secrecy surrounding the role has only fueled further anticipation among the gaming community.
The film is expected to be a significant milestone for Legendary Entertainment as they attempt to translate the complex mechanics of a trading card game into a cohesive cinematic narrative. With filming schedules aligning, audiences can expect more updates regarding the supporting cast and release dates in the coming months.
For now, Maya Hawke remains one of the most sought-after talents in Hollywood.