Jon Favreau in Talks to Direct Live-Action Adaptation of ‘The Jungle Book’ for Disney

Justin Marks adapted Rudyard Kipling’s classic for the studio, which will be competing with a rival project at Warner Bros.

Jon Favreau is in talks to direct Disney’s live-action adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s classic novel “The Jungle Book,” an individual familiar with the project has told TheWrap.

First published in 1894, “The Jungle Book” is in the public domain and was adapted by Justin Marks, though producers have not yet been assigned.

Disney will be competing with a rival project that frequent “Harry Potter” scribe Steve Kloves is writing for Warner Bros.

Also Read: Another ‘Jungle Book’ Live-Action Movie In the Works as Disney Hires Writer

“The Jungle Book” is a set of India-based fables, many of which feature Mowgli, a young boy raised by wolves whose friends include a bear and a panther.

Disney’s 1967 animated adaptation was the last film to be produced by Walt Disney, who died during its production.

Favreau’s involvement with “Jungle Book” begs the question of what’s going on with Disney’s “Magic Kingdom,” which he had also been attached to direct.

Also Read: New Animation Studio Born: DQ Entertainment Plans ‘The Jungle Book’ in 3D (Updated)

The CAA-repped filmmaker recently wrapped the indie comedy “Chef,” which he also stars in and produced. He previously directed the first two “Iron Man” movies as well as “Elf” and “Zathura.”

The news was first reported by Deadline.

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