K.T Simpson
Guillermo Del Toro’s musical stop-motion project of “Pinocchio” has found a home at Netflix, with production to begin shortly for the film. Don’t go expecting a sweet Disney flick though, with the project set to take place in Italy during the rise of fascism under Mussolini. Heavy.
“The Shape of Water” director stated:
“No art form has influenced my life and my work more than animation and no single character in history has had as deep of a personal connection to me as Pinocchio. In our story, Pinocchio is an innocent soul with an uncaring father who gets lost in a world he cannot comprehend. He embarks on an extraordinary journey that leaves him with a deep understanding of his father and the real world. I’ve wanted to make this movie for as long as I can remember. After the incredible experience we have had on Trollhunters, I am grateful that the talented team at Netflix is giving me the opportunity of a lifetime to introduce audiences everywhere to my version of this strange puppet-turned-real-boy.”
Netflix have commented on the new partnership:
“Throughout his distinguished career, Guillermo has exhibited mastery in inspiring people through his magical worlds filled with unforgettable and magnificent characters, from the monsters in Pan’s Labyrinth to the aquatic beast in The Shape of Water. We are incredibly excited to expand our relationship with Guillermo and we know that his deeply touching vision for bringing Pinocchio to life on Netflix will be embraced by audiences the world over.”
No release date has been noted just yet, but a team has been assembled: Patrick McHale is co-writing the script with del Toro, while Mark Gustafson, a stop-motion veteran who worked on Wes Anderson’s “Fantastic Mr. Fox”, is on board to co-direct. The look of the character is based on Pinocchio designs by Gris Grimly, adapted by long-time del Toro collaborator Guy Davis. Mackinnon & Saunders, who worked on Tim Burton’s “Corpse Bride”, will be handling the puppet making for the stop-motion musical with the Jim Henson Company and ShadowMachine taking on the stop-motion animation.
