MUMBAI: DreamWorks Animation SKG, Inc has roped in Academy-Award winning actor Nicolas Cage and Ryan Reynolds for its pre-historic themed 3D CG animated comedy adventure The Croods.

Cage will play the leader and protector of his family, and Reynolds will portray an outsider whose new ideas challenge the patriarch’s authority.

"We are thrilled that Nicolas Cage and Ryan Reynolds are lending their considerable talents to The Croods and know that they will both bring a perfect blend of humor, enthusiasm and emotion to their lead roles. Our filmmakers are creating an amazing world that is full of fascinating characters, creatures and stunning environments that is truly unlike anything we’ve done before at DreamWorks Animation," said DreamWorks Animation co-president of production Bill Damaschke.

The Croods is written and directed by Academy-Award nominee Chris Sanders and Kirk DeMicco, based on a screenplay originally developed by John Cleese & Kirk DeMiccoand produced by Kristine Belson & Jane Hartwell.  The Croods is set for release on 30 March, 2012.