AceShowbiz -

Barbie is getting her own big screen treatment. Sony Pictures has struck a deal with the toy company Mattel and producers Walter Parkes and Laurie MacDonald to develop a live-action comedy around the fashion doll as a potential new franchise.

Deadline reported that the project would be overseen by the studio chief herself Amy Pascal and production president Hannah Minghella. The script will be provided by Jenny Bicks who co-wrote "Rio 2". Production is expected to begin before the year's end.

Tim Kilpin, executive VP of global brands for Mattel, said the movie would show Barbie's playful personality. "Barbie has entertained children and inspired their imagination and creativity for more than 50 years," Kilpin said. "Now is the right time in Barbie's celebrated history for her to star in a live-action, contemporary comedy that brings her playful personality to life for generations of fans."

Representing women empowerment, Barbie has juggled more than 150 careers over 50 years of its existence. Some of her careers as well as her famous pink Malibu mansion and sports car are expected to be featured in the movie.

"We've always thought that the Barbie story had great potential, but a universe of possibilities opened up when Jenny, Walter and Laurie brought us their unexpected, clever, and truly funny concept. It captures everything that has made Barbie a classic for generation after generation while also standing on its own, establishing Barbie as a truly original screen character," Minghella told Deadline.

The project is the second between Mattel and Sony, who are also developing a film adaptation of "Masters of the Universe". Universal Pictures had planned to produce a film around Barbie in 2009.