Calling all pups: Paw Patrol the movie is in the works

A feature-length take on preschool puppy series Paw Patrolis heading to the big screen.

Spin Master Corp. says it's turning its popular franchise into an animated feature-lengthfilm that will hit theatres in August 2021.

The TV series has been a consistent winner for young viewers, who catch it on Netflix and several provincial networks in Canada, as well as globally on Nickelodeon.

Paw Patrolfollows the adventures of a tech-savvy boy and his pack of rescue dogs, each of whom have special abilities and cool vehicles. Producers of the show, now in its sixth season, have previously released several hourlong"special episodes" that were screened in cinemas.

The series has spawned a massive toy, merchandise and clothing line, as well as a touring stage show.

Spin Master says the Paw Patrol movie will be directed by Canadian animationfilmmaker Cal Brunker. His past credits include writing and directingEscape from Planet Earth and The Nut Job 2: Nutty by Nature. He also served as a storyboardartist formovies such as Despicable Me, Minions and The Secret Life of Pets.

The Toronto company's entertainment division will produce along with Nickelodeon Movies, while Paramount Pictures will handle distribution.

Spin Master says the film is the first "of a number of feature films" in the works. Its other toy lines include Bakugan, Air Hogs and Hatchimals.