Reynolds to lead voice cast of animated 'Turbo'

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GLENDALE, Calif., Feb. 24 (UPI) -- Ryan Reynolds is to lend his voice to the titular speed-obsessed snail in the cartoon "Turbo," California's DreamWorks Animation said Friday.

The cast will also include the voice talents of Paul Giamatti, Snoop Dogg, Michael Pena, Luis Guzman, Bill Hader, Richard Jenkins, Ken Jeong, Michelle Rodriguez, Maya Rudolph, Ben Schwartz, Kurtwood Smith and Samuel L. Jackson.

Set for theatrical release July 19, 2013, the movie tells the story of an "ordinary garden snail with dreams of racing greatness," the studio said.

"Ryan Reynolds' infectious enthusiasm and humor will bring life to the lead role of 'Turbo' and set the tone for this amazing roster of all-star voice talent," DreamWorks Animation Chief Creative Officer Bill Damaschke said in a statement Friday. "This high-octane journey will take audiences on the race of their lives and completely redefine the traditional notion of moving at a snail's pace."

David Soren is to direct the film based on his own original concept.