Robert Zemeckis to Direct Live-Action “Pinocchio”

'PINOCCHIO.' Photo by Snap/Shutterstock (390884gq)

The prolific director is in talks to direct a live-action Pinocchio for Disney. 

Multiple outlets report that Robert Zemeckis could be talking over as the feature’s helmer from Paddington director, Paul King, who had originally been tapped to direct. According to Variety, King exited the project due to unknown reasons at the beginning of the year.

Penning the 1940 Disney classic adaptation is Chris Weitz. Weitz will also produce with Andrew Miano through their Depth of Field banner. 

The story follows a living wooden puppet who, with the help of his father-creator Geppetto, must prove himself worthy of becoming a real boy. According to sources, Tom Hanks curlicued the role of Geppetto, but has since passed on the gig. 

Zemeckis is currently in post-production on Warner Bros’ The Witches.