Stephen Chow talks with Han Sanping, chairman of China Film Group, at a press conference in Beijing on Monday, June 8, 2009. [Photo: sina.com]

Stephen Chow is set to produce his first cartoon film, an adaptation of his 2008 sci-fi comedy "CJ7", the Hong Kong actor-filmmaker announced on Monday.

The new film will retain all the original characters but tells a different story. The cast of "CJ7" will also reappear as voice performers of the cartoon version.

The animation is co-produced by Stephen Chow's production company, Star Overseas, and China Film Group Corporation. Hong Kong cartoon film director Yuen Kin-to will helm the production.

It is scheduled to hit Chinese cinemas during the Spring Festival in 2010.