Nike movie on the cards

Nike founder Phil Knight plans to adapt a Neil Gaiman book as his first feature.

Jul 21 2005

Phil Knight, the founder of Nike, is moving into animation by renaming his entertainment company and greenlighting its first film.

Vinton Studios, which created the California Raisins and stop-motion sitcom 'The PJs', has been rebranded Laika Entertainment (after the first dog sent into space by the Soviet Union) and is all set to start work on a full-length feature later this year.

'Coraline' will blend computer and stop-motion animation, and could be in theatres as soon as 2007.

The film will be based on the Neil Gaiman book of the same name, about a young girl who discovers a mysterious door while exploring her new house.

The youngster then ventures through the door, only to discover another world that mirrors her own in strange and unusual ways.

Henry Selick ('The Nightmare Before Christmas', 'James and the Giant Peach') will direct the feature, which is expected to have a budget in excess of $70 million.

Nothing else is known about the project at present, though rest assured we’ll bring you news on 'Coraline' as and when it breaks.