9 Director Shane Acker to Develop BEASTS OF BURDEN

Shane Acker, the director of the CG animated action film 9, is set to direct a new untitled CG animated movie based on the Dark Horse Comics series Beasts of Burden, which was written by Evan Dorkin and illustrated by Jill Thompson. It's a supernatural story that revolves around dogs.

Even though 9 was a little rough around the edges I still enjoyed the movie, and I've been looking forward to seeing what Acker would end up doing next because he's a pretty talented guy. This seems like a solid project for him to take on, and I hope it turns out to be a good flick. The movie is being produced by Reel FX, and the script is being worked on by Darren Lemke (Turbo, Shrek Forever After).

The story follows "the baffling behavior (tail chasing, barking at 'nothing' at all) of our favorite four-legged friends. In the charming town of Burden Hill, there might be more to these animal antics than meets the eye. The town is inhabited by the supernatural, and when its paranormal activity becomes even more abnormal than usual, it’s up to a group of fearless canines called the Watch Dogs to protect its citizens – and humanity – from the mysterious things that go 'bump' in the night." Acker had this to say in a statement,

It’s a pleasure to be working with such accomplished producers and filmmakers on this incredible project. There is a real independent spirit at Reel FX — the studio is full of energy and fresh ideas — which is necessary to bring this unique story to life.

Reel FX has got a growing animation slate, which also includes the Day of the Dead-themed project, The Book of Life with Guillermo del Toro producing and Jorge Gutierrez directing. Then there's Turkeys, which is being directed by Jimmy Hayward and stars Owen Wilson and Woody Harrelson.