Guillermo del Toro signs with DreamWorks animation

Oscar-winning filmmaker Guillermo del Toro has signed an exclusive deal with DreamWorks animation to write, produce and direct animated family films for the studio.

This is the latest deal for the filmmaker, who earlier this month signed an overall deal with Fox Searchlight to write, produce and direct live-action feature projects, reported Variety.

"Animation is an art form that has influenced my work greatly since childhood. To me, it's the perfect medium to bring to life any and all ideas, no matter how outlandish or wild. I am eager to work with (DWA Film Group president) Chris (deFaria) and the talented artistes at DreamWorks some of the most talented people in the business to make these images a reality. I have worked with DreamWorks for about a decade, and the horizon just keeps getting wider," del Toro said in a statement.

In the past, del Toro has acted as a creative consultant for DreamWorks' "Kung Fu Panda 2" and "Megamind" and other input earned him executive producer credits on "Rise of the Guardians," "Puss in Boots," and "Kung Fu Panda 3."