My Name is Alvin

Jason Lee to star in “Chipmunks” movie

Jason Lee will star as David Seville in the CG/live-action hybrid pic “Alvin and the Chipmunks” for Fox 2000 and Fox Animation, says Variety.

Penned by Jon Vitti and to be directed by Tim Hill, project is based on the 1950s cartoon series about chipmunks Alvin, Simon and Theodore, who lay waste to Seville’s surroundings and sing in three-part harmony on such tunes as “The Chipmunk Song (Christmas Don’t Be Late)” and “The Witch Doctor.”

Production starts March 28 for a planned Dec. 14 release date. Bagdasarian Prods.’ Ross Bagdasarian Jr. and Janice Karman are producing; Karen Rosenfelt and Michele Imperato Stabile exec produce.

Hill co-wrote and directed Fox’s “Garfield: A Tail of Two Kitties” and helmed Disney’s “Max Keeble’s Big Move” and Sony’s “Muppets From Space.” He has also created more than 20 shows for Nickelodeon and was the head writer on “SpongeBob SquarePants: The Movie.”

Lee, who stars in NBC’s “My Name Is Earl,” provides the title voice in Disney/Spyglass’ “Underdog” and will topline and co-produce Warner’s “Krater.”