Angry Birds movie to release in 2016 (With Image)

An animated 3D comedy inspired by popular game Angry Birds is in the making and the makers plan to release it July 1, 2016.

The 3D film is being developed, produced, and financed by Rovio Entertainment, and it marks the company's first foray into feature films. While several major studios pursued the global film rights in recent weeks, Sony Pictures Entertainment emerged as the winner.

"Sony impressed us with their great attitude, determination, and professionalism. They convinced us that we have found the right partners and team to help us market and distribute our first motion picture," Mikael Hed, CEO of Rovio Entertainment, said in a statement.

Sony Pictures Entertainment representatives Michael Lynton and Amy Pascal, said: "Every studio in town would love to add Angry Birds to their slate. There are few titles out there that bring this kind of excitement, brand awareness and built-in audience to the table.

"We're thrilled to be distributing this film and we hope this is just the beginning of what will be a long relationship with Rovio as we look for ways to work on future projects together."

Angry Birds started in 2009 as an original mobile game. It has expanded rapidly into entertainment, publishing, and licensing to become an international brand.

The simple and casual gameplay involves the use of a slingshot by the players to launch birds at green pigs in an attempt to get their eggs back.