Guillermo Del Toro to Direct New Animated Version of PINOCCHIO

Variety reports that famed director Guillermo Del Toro will helm "Guillermo Del Toro's Pinocchio" along with Mark Gustafson, animation director on "The Fantastic Mr. Fox." The film will be a 3D stop-motion animated production of the Jim Henson Company. Shooting on the project is expected to begin in the summer of 2013. It will mark the first time Del Toro has directed an animated film.

'Pinocchio' will be set in Italy between the two World Wars. "It was when everyone was behaving like a puppet, except for puppets," joked Del Toro.

The story is written by Del Toro, frequent collaborator Matthew Robbins and Grimly. In the storyline, the famous puppet will experience a "series of adventures and proving himself to be as indestructible as his love for his father."

Del Toro most recently served as executive producer of DreamWorks' "Puss in Boots," "Kung Fu Panda 2" and the upcoming "Rise of the Guardians" as well as creative consultant on "Megamind."

Lisa Henson, CEO of Jim Henson Company commented, "Guillermo has been so passionate about this project from its inception and it is an honor to have him bring his unique blend of live action and animation experience to this well-loved story."

The 19th century book "The Adventures of Pinocchio" was written by Carlo Collodi. The first feature film version of the classic story was produced by Walt Disney in 1940.

"We thought the combination of beloved family friendly brands such as Pinocchio and The Jim Henson Company along with the visual and storytelling genius of Guillermo Del Toro would have the makings of a film that can have tremendous worldwide box office appeal," said Bill Johnson, co-chairman of Inferno International.

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