Mike Fleming

Sony Pictures Animation has bought screen rights to the Janet Foxley children’s novel Muncle Trogg. It is the first acquisition made by Michelle Raimo-Kouyate since she joined as president of production. She made the deal with Sony Pictures Digital Productions president Bob Osher. The book is about a fairytale community based inside a volcano, and hidden away from humans. Jane Startz will be exec producer and Kane Lee will be co-producer.

“There are strong characters, relatable themes, a unique world and tons of inherent comedy,” said Raimo-Kouyate. “As soon as I read Muncle Trogg, I knew this would speak to the kinds of animated movies I want to make at Sony Pictures Animation.”

The division most recently released Cloudy With A Chance Of Meatballs and has The Smurfs coming up with Sony Pictures.