Jason Reitman To Write And Direct ‘Beekle’ For DreamWorks Animation

By Germain Lussier/May 27, 2015 1:45 pm EST

We may receive a commission on purchases made from links.

The co-presidents of DreamWorks animation, Bonnie Arnold and Mireille Soria, said this about Reitman and the project:

That’s the good news. The bad news is adapting an animated film takes at least 3 times as long as a live-action feature. So while Reitman will surely start working on Beekle soon, we’ll be lucky to see it on the big screen before the end of the decade. or at least close.

Welcoming Jason onto this project is a true coup, as his incredible ability to tell heartfelt character-driven stories with a signature comedic tone makes him the perfect choice to bring this beloved book to the big screen. We immediately fell in love with the concept of ‘Beekle’ and know that Jason will create something truly special from this fantastic source material.

New York Times bestselling and award-winning author and illustrator Dan Santat combines classic storytelling with breathtaking art, creating an unforgettable tale about friendship, imagination, and the courage to find one’s place in the world.

This magical story begins on an island far away where an imaginary friend is born. He patiently waits his turn to be chosen by a real child, but when he is overlooked time and again, he sets off on an incredible journey to the bustling city, where he finally meets his perfect match and-at long last-is given his special name: Beekle.