Plot Synopsis

THE TOYS THAT MADE US is a one-hour documentary series that reveals the minds behind history's most iconic toy franchises, as they discuss the rise -- and sometimes fall -- of their billion-dollar creations. There's more than meets the eye when bringing these fan-favorite toys to life. On December 22, 2017 at 3:01am ET/12:01am PT, Netflix released four episodes:

"Star Wars": A small toy company in Cincinnati takes on its biggest licensing project ever, giving birth to the most profitable toy franchise in history.

"Barbie": Inspired by a risque doll from Germany, the co-founder of Mattel toys forever revolutionized the doll industry for young girls

"He-Man": Creators responsible for reviving a toy company's struggling action figure line discuss the epic rise and fall of their billion-dollar empire.

"G.I. Joe": Credited with coining the term "action figure" more than 50 years ago, a group of toy marketers reimagined a new genre of dolls for boys.



On Friday, May 25, 2018 at 3:01am ET/12:01am PT, Netflix released the four-episode second season of THE TOYS THAT MADE US:

"Star Trek": Plagued by years of brand mismanagement and product inconsistency, a popular space franchise must overcome its past in a competitive toy market.

"Transformers": Combining ingenious Japanese toys with a creative backstory written by Marvel Comics, Hasbro introduced a line that changed the toy landscape forever.

"LEGO": From humble beginnings in the Danish countryside, this maker of interlocking plastic bricks has become the largest toy manufacturer in the world.

"Hello Kitty": With the motto "small gift, big smile" as its business philosophy, Sanrio founder Shintaro Tsuji turned a "kawaii" kitty into a global phenomenon.
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THE TOYS THAT MADE US returned for its four-episode third season on Friday, November 15, 2019 at 3:01am ET/12:01am PT, as Netflix released the entire season:

"Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles": Two relatively unknown comic book artists stumble upon an idea that will give rise to Turtlemania, sending the toy industry into shell shock.

"Mighty Morphin Power Rangers": Inspired by Japan's Super Sentai series, composer Haim Saban's groundbreaking vision has since morphed into a decades-long TV and toy dynasty.

"My Little Pony": Bringing immense joy to children, and now bronies, these half-pint hoofers have redefined the modern doll in an era dominated by Barbies and Berries.

"Professional Wrestling": From WrestleMania to retail mania: The creators responsible for wrestling's choke hold on toy store shelves reflect on their triumphs and setbacks.