"DreamWorks has hired screenwriter David H. Steinberg (Slackers, American Pie 2) to write the animated film Puss in Boots, based on the character voiced by Antonio Banderas in /animation.dreamworksfansite.com/shrek2/"">Shrek 2.

Banderas will return to voice the spinoff, which is part of DreamWorks' slate for 2008. The trade says it is unclear at this point whether the title will receive a theatrical release or go directly to DVD.

However, Steinberg's six-figure deal suggests the studio has an interest in making a run at a theatrical release.

Steinberg is writing the remake of MGM's Love at First Bite as well as Other People's Wishes for Warner Bros. Pictures.

/www.comingsoon.net"">Coming Soon via /www.variety.com"">Variety."