Steven Spielberg to direct adaptation of Roald Dahl’s fantasy novel The BFG

Earlier this week, we learned that Steven Spielberg was planning to reunite with Tom Hanks for a thriller set during the Cold War. Now we have learned what his project will be after that and it is not ROBOPOCALYPSE.

Variety reports that Spielberg will direct an adaptation of Roald Dahl‘s THE BFG. Dreamworks optioned the book a few years ago but now Spielberg will tackle it himself. The plan is for production to begin next year for a 2016 release.

The BFG is no ordinary bone-crunching giant. He is far too nice and jumbly. It’s lucky for Sophie that he is. Had she been carried off in the middle of the night by the Bloodbottler, or any of the other giants—rather than the BFG—she would have soon become breakfast. When Sophie hears that the giants are flush-bunking off to England to swollomp a few nice little chiddlers, she decides she must stop them once and for all. And the BFG is going to help her!

THE BFG is a popular book for children, especially those looking for other works by Roald Dahl, the man best known for writing CHARLIE AND THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY and JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH. This will also mark Spielberg’s first true family film since 1991’s HOOK. Spielberg issued a brief statement regarding the project.

“’The BFG’ has enchanted families and their children for more than three decades. We are honored that the Roald Dahl estate has entrusted us with this classic story,”

Seeing Spielberg tackle a fantasy adventure in the old Amblin spirit will be something special. While he has made A.I. and THE ADVENTURES OF TINTIN, most of his work over the last few decades has been skewed towards older audiences. This may be a great opportunity for the old Spielberg heart to shine brightly in a way we haven’t seen in a long time.