Netflix today announced that it is producing Jacob And The Sea Beast, a CG animated feature film written and directed by Academy Award winning filmmaker Chris Williams (Moana, Big Hero 6, Bolt). Jacob and the Sea Beast – Williams’ script that will also serve as his solo directorial debut – tells the epic story of a charming seafarer who sails into uncharted waters and discovers an unlikely ally in a sea monster.

“Jacob and the Sea Beast is the kind of story I’ve always wanted to take on. It’s a tale of high adventure where our hero leaves the known world and ventures out into uncharted waters. As it turns out, I’m doing the same thing. I’m grateful for the opportunities provided by my former creative home and am excited to leap into a new environment. I feel a great energy at Netflix, as amazingly talented artists from a wide variety of backgrounds are coming together to build something new,” commented Williams.

Netflix expects the feature film to be released in 2022.

“Chris is one of the most talented filmmakers working in animation today and his distinct voice comes through in this touching tale of ancient hunters who struggle to capture a beautiful, mythical sea creature on the high seas. His is precisely the kind of grand, adventure-filled story with smart and nuanced characters that we look for in family animated projects at Netflix,” said Melissa Cobb, vice president of kids & family at Netflix.