REEL DEAL: Cumberbatch, Blanchett, Bale Head Cast of Warner's “JUNGLE BOOK: ORIGINS”

Warner Bros. Pictures has assembled an impressive roster of stars for “Jungle Book: Origins,” its new big-screen, 3D adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s classic The Jungle Book, marking the feature film directorial debut of Andy Serkis.

The action adventure, which will blend motion capture and live action, will be released worldwide beginning October 21, 2016. The announcement was made today by Greg Silverman, President, Creative Development and Worldwide Production, and Sue Kroll, President, Worldwide Marketing and International Distribution, Warner Bros. Pictures.

REEL DEAL: Disney Casts Newcomer For Mowgli Role in “THE JUNGLE BOOK”

After an extensive worldwide search ranging from New York to New Zealand, London to Canada, and all throughout the United States and India, The Walt Disney Studios is pleased to announce that 10-year-old Neel Sethi will play the part of Mowgli in Disney’s “The Jungle Book.”

Neel is a newcomer from New York picked from among thousands of auditions, and his role in “The Jungle Book” marks his first foray into acting.

“Casting is the most important element of any film and finding the right kid to play Mowgli was imperative,” said director Jon Favreau. “Neel has tremendous talent and charisma. There is a lot riding on his little shoulders and I’m confident he can handle it.”