The Walt Disney Company has purchased the script for a new live-action adventure film from The Lego Batman Movie co-writer Joshua Whittington.
According to The Hollywood Reporter, Whittington's script is for a live-action film featuring a "high concept" story that is "set in the world of movies," though specific plot details are being kept under lock and key. That said, Disney is planning to release the film theatrically. Producer John Davis (Dolemite is My Name, Game Night) of Davis Entertainment will produce alongside partner John Fox. Disney acquired Whittington's script after winning a bidding war against Warner Bros.
While Disney isn't particularly known for spec projects -- instead placing its focus on branded IP, as well as remakes and sequels of existing properties -- THR speculates that this new project will allow the studio to "dig deep in its warehouse of movies."
In addition to The Lego Batman Movie, Whittington served as a co-writer on The Lego Ninjago Movie, as well as wrote the Netflix film When We First Met and two episodes of Netflix's Green Eggs and Ham animated series. He was also recently tapped to co-write DC Super Pets for Warner Bros., with the film currently slated to hit theaters in 2022.