Woody Woodpecker to get a big screen outing

Los Angeles: The crimson haired Woody Woodpecker is all set to get a big screen outing.

Illumination Entertainment, the Universal-based animation house behind ‘Despicable Me’ is working on a feature project on the beloved cartoon character. John Altschuler and Dave Krinsky, who co-wrote the Will Ferrell comedy ‘Blades of Glory’, are in talks to develop a story, the Hollywood Reporter said. Woodpecker first appeared in a short in 1940. It was co-created by cartoonist Walter Lantz and voiced, in his initial outings, by Mel Blanc, the future voice of Bugs Bunny. Initially rambunctious and brash, the character was a huge hit during World War II-era America. Later, he also found a love interest and a nemesis Ben Buzzard. His popularity increased post his debut on television in the late 50s. PTI