MUMBAI: Sony Pictures Animation has acquired the motion picture rights to Janet Foxley’s Muncle Trogg.

The announcement was made by Sony Pictures Digital Productions president Bob Osher and Sony Pictures Animation president of production Michelle Raimo-Kouyate. The preemptive deal is Raimo-Kouyate’s first acquisition since her appointment as president of production.

Jane Startz, a producer of family entertainment, is the executive producer, whereas Jane Startz Productions Inc. vice president of development Kane Lee is co-producer.

"Great stories begin with great characters and Muncle Trogg is one of the most original," said Osher.

"Strong characters, relatable themes, a unique world and tons of inherent comedy: 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," said Raimo-Kouyate.

Muncle Trogg, about a fairytale community living in a volcano, hidden from human beings, is published by The Chicken House in the United Kingdom and Australia, and will be published by The Chicken House /Scholastic imprint in Spring 2012 in The United States and Canada.