Guillaume Ivernel (DRAGON HUNTERS) has set the 3-D animated sci-fi thriller SOUL MAN as his next feature, reports Variety. Ivernel wrote the script with crime author Caryl Ferey. The alternative universe tale finds an ex-detective getting wrapped up in a sketchy biotech deal that involves a baby girl he must watch. Ivernel described the project as a mix of Blaxploitation and sci-fi.

Denis Auboyer's CMC is funding the $45 million English-language production. Ivernel's Blacklight Movies is the producer. CMC's Digimage Cinema, Piste Rouge and Mad Light are involved in the film's development. Les Androids Associes is handling previz. Valerie Hadida provided the character designs.

A six-minute preview will be unveiled at Cartoon Movie, which runs from March 2-4 in Lyon, France.