DreamWorks plans 'Rumblewick' film

GLENDALE, Calif., March 3 (UPI) -- U.S. studio DreamWorks Animation says it is planning a film inspired by the children's book, "My Unwilling Witch (The Rumblewick Letters)."

The project is to be directed by Tim Johnson, whose film credits include "Antz" and "Over the Hedge." It will be penned by writer Jim Herzfeld, who worked on "Meet the Fockers" and "Meet the Parents," and is based on the "Rumblewick" book by Hiawyn Oram and Sarah Warburton.

DreamWorks Animation development executives Chris Kuser and Gregg Taylor are overseeing the project at the studio.

"The fascinating world of witches and witches' familiars is perfectly suited for the medium of animation, where anything goes," DreamWorks Animation's Chief Creative Officer Bill Damaschke said in a statement Thursday. "Combined with the magically creative and comedic sensibilities of Tim Johnson and Jim Herzfeld, we look forward to bringing the world of 'Rumblewick' to life."

"The odds are stacked against our main character, a hard-working rabbit. Telling the story of his struggle and triumph is a fantastic journey. I know audiences are going to fall in love with 'Rumblewick,'" added Johnson.

"Rumblewick" follows the adventures of a magician's rabbit "for whom the invitation to learn real magic and train as a witch's familiar seems like a dream come true," DreamWorks said in a synopsis.