Yes, there are an astonishing amount of Wizard of Oz remakes, adaptations, and sequels that currently seem to be on the way at the moment. Whether they’ll all make it to the big screen remains to be seen, but that’s not stopping others from adding to the pile.

Vanguard Films has a new re-imagining of the classic tale in development called Oz Wars that will use CGI and stop-motion animations. Unlike most of the other Oz projects in the works — which seem to be staying generally close to the original story — this one will be taking things to a seriously different level, being set in the contemporary world and bringing black magic, battle-ready warrior witches, monsters, and even martial arts to the table.

Vanguard has hired Mike Johnson to direct the movie, which is written by Rob Moreland. Johnson has previously co-directed Corpse Bride with Tim Burton, and directed episodes of The PJs. He also worked in the animation department on other stop-motion films such as The Nightmare Before Christmas and James and the Giant Peach. Moreland has previously written Happily N’Ever After and Space Chimps.

Head of Vanguard, John Williams, says that new stop-motion programs will allow them to make Oz Wars at “unprecedentedly economical cost point.” He went on to say the movie is an “animated action-adventure story, but unlike most animated films, it’s not just for kids. The Land of Oz will be reimagined using stop-motion to create a world that’s dark, slick, sexy and dangerous.”

No word yet on when the film will go into production.

[Source: Variety]