Universal Speaks for the Lorax

Published by Jeff Leins on: July 30th, 2009

Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment are bringing Dr. Seuss’ “The Lorax” to the big screen as a 3-D animated feature.  The partnership is planning a release on March 2, 2012, the birthday of Theodor Seuss Giesel who died in 1991.

The story, originally published in 1971, is narrated by a greedy entrepreneur who strips the forest of the Truffula trees despite the warnings of the Lorax.  It’s “green” theme is still relevant today and judging by the message in Wall-E, animation studios have no problem preaching an environment-friendly agenda.  Plus who doesn’t love his cute, fluffy beard and “I speak for the trees!” catch phrase?

Co-directing is Chris Renaud along with writing partners Cinco Paul and Ken Daurio, who are adapting the story into script.  According to Variety, Chris Meledandri is producing this after developing a successful Horton Hears a Who! when he ran Fox Animation.  Paul and Daurio wrote Horton, which was pretty awesome.

Let’s hope this is closer to the latest Seussian flicks and not the horrendous Cat in the Hat.