As I discussed earlier this month, following the success of Tim Burton's Alice in Wonderland, we can expect a deluge of fairy tale adaptions in the coming year.  Hansel and Gretel is a classic fairy tale, so naturally it is one of the first to be considered for the silver screen.  However, I suspect the fairy tale's original authors the Brothers Grimm may be confused to see their fairy tale described as “a 3D action packed visual FX experience”.

What is even more amusing is that this iteration of Hansel and Gretel not only includes the infamous witch in her gingerbread house, but showcases creatures of German mythology.  Said creatures I am certain were missing from the original text.  Nonetheless, these Teutonic beings should look suitably impressive as they will be designed by Joseph C. Pepe, of Avatar fame.

The Hansel and Gretel movie is to be produced by The Institute and Kalliope Films. The Institute was co-founded by Michael Bay.  So yes, that means the Hansel and Gretel film will be a Michael Bay movie.  Is it just me, or am I not the only one who is not exactly overwhelmed with this news?  Hansel and Gretel is a classic fairytale with wonderful themes and subtext, but I dread to see the film as an action spectacle by Michael “Robot Balls” Bay.

Hansel and Gretel is currently scheduled for a shoot on location in Germany for spring next year, and to be released at the end of 2011.