Monty Python stars voice characters in 'Absolutely Anything'

LONDON, Dec. 13 (UPI) -- Terry Jones is to direct a British animated feature film featuring the voice talents of several of his fellow Monty Python troupe members.

The vocal cast of "Absolutely Anything" will include Pythons John Cleese, Terry Gilliam and Michael Palin, as well as comedic actors Simon Pegg and Robin Williams, Bill & Ben Productions announced Thursday.

Pegg will play Neil Clarke, a disillusioned school teacher who suddenly discovers he has magical powers, bestowed upon him by aliens. The aliens will be voiced by Cleese, Gilliam, Jones and Palin. Williams will play Clarke's hilarious and faithful dog.

Pre-production is to start Feb. 2, with principal photography commencing in London March 23.

"As someone whose love of comedy was hugely informed by Monty Python, the chance to work with Terry was a gift. Meeting your heroes is one thing, working with them is something else," Pegg said in a statement.

Producer Ben Timlett said: "We are extremely excited that Terry Jones' and Gavin Scott's script will soon be brought to life. Their collaboration has created a laugh-out-loud storyline, wonderfully quirky characters and dialogue that not everyone will be expecting."