DreamWorks Animation is now out on its own and boasting a film slate that will keep computer animators busy for some time. Not only will there be more Shrek movies and Madagascar 2 Variety is reporting on five future films, which they describe as being very Shrek-esque with main characters that can appeal to kids but a wry sense of humor and double entendres that can amuse adults, check out the details below.
First up is Kung Fu Panda, which will feature the voice talent of Jack Black and be directed by John Stevenson and Mark Osborne. The film is said to be in a similar vain such as pics like Kung Fu Hustle. Black will star as the voice of a lazy panda prophesied to save the Valley of Peace.
Beyond that the article details four more films slated for sometime between now and 2009.
How to Train Your Dragon: Based on the children’s book by Cressida Cowell in which the son of a Viking chief must capture a dragon in order to be initiated into his tribe. The film will be directed by Lorna Cook (Spirit: Stallion of the Cimarron) and David Soren.
Rex Havoc: Based on the classic horror comicbook, is about a monster hunter called upon to battle aliens who have disrupted cable TV service. Rex assembles a team of monsters to help including Ick!, Dr. Cockroach, the 50,000 Pound Woman and Insectosaurus. Rex Havoc will be directed by Conrad Vernon (the Gingerbread Man from the Shrek films) and Rob Letterman (Shark Tale).
It Came From Earth!: A reverse alien invasion story told from the perspective of Martians when human astronauts arrive.
Route 66: The story of Mulligan, a giant golf ball statue on the side of legendary Route 66. When Betty, a giant blueberry who hovers above a produce stand on the other side of the street, is carted off one day, Mulligan steps down off his pedestal and sets off to find the love of his life.
Next year, DreamWorks Animation releases Over the Hedge and Flushed Away. Apparently if either of these films is a success a sequel will be quickly slated for a 2009 release. Lord help us it seems computer generated characters will not be going away anytime soon.
