Sony Pictures is developing a CG Popeye feature to be released in 3D. Avi Arad is producing and Mike Jones is in negotiations to write the script.

The storyline is being kept under wraps, but Popeye's love interest Olive Oyl, nemesis Bluto and adopted child Swee'Pea will be part of the adventure, says Variety.

Arad says the new version will cover the themes of friendship, love, greed and life, and focus on human strengths and human frailties.

Popeye will be made by Sony Pictures Animation, with Sony Pictures Imageworks handling the CG. The companies are currently working on The Smurfs, coming to theaters on August 3, 2011.

Created by E.C. Segar, Popeye first appeared in the already established "Thimble Theater" comic strip in 1929. Introduced as a walk-on character, Popeye eventually became the strip's star.

Popeye was last seen on the big screen in 1980 when Robin Williams starred in director Robert Altman's live-action version.