Spielberg still set to direct 'Tintin'

LOS ANGELES, Aug. 27 (UPI) -- Steven Spielberg's publicist said the U.S. director is still to direct the first of three planned "Tintin" films, contrary to reports saying Peter Jackson will.

Spielberg reportedly was to direct the first film based on the famous comic strip about a young Belgian reporter, while Jackson had signed on to produce the first installment in the franchise and direct its sequel.

However, The Hollywood Reporter said Herge Studios, the Brussels company that owns the rights to the characters, announced Tuesday that Jackson would direct the first film instead of Spielberg and that Spielberg would be indirectly involved in the filming.

But E! Online said representatives for both filmmakers have contradicted the announcement, stating Spielberg plans to direct the first movie, while Jackson will produce it and then direct its sequel.

The film series is to star Thomas Sangster of "Nanny McPhee" and "Love Actually" fame, as well as Andy Serkis, who collaborated with Jackson on the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy and "King Kong."