Disney hires a screenwriter for live-action “Cruella”

With its live-action movie about the magnificent “Maleficent” in post-production, Disney is reportedly setting its sights on another iconic villain: Cruella de Vil.

According to the Hollywood Reporter, Disney has hired screenwriter Aline Brosh McKenna to tell Cruella’s story. McKenna, who also wrote “The Devil Wears Prada,” has just finished the screenplay for the live-action Cinderella, which is due in 2015.

Of course there already has been a live-action “101 Dalmatians,” and while the 1996 movie may not have been very memorable, Glenn Close’s portrayal of Cruella certainly was. The Hollywood Reporter says Close is involved in the new production too, as an executive producer. But no word on whether she will appear in front of the camera this time.

The plot is under wraps, but we may be able to get a hint from “Maleficent.” Due in 2014, it tells the story of Sleeping Beauty from the perspective of the evil Maleficent (Angelina Jolie), who curses the newborn Princess Aurora. If “Cruella” follows the same pattern, we’re sure to get some deep back story on what caused Cruella’s fascination with fur.