MGM Green-Lights New Joss Whedon Project

MGM has picked up the script for new thriller The Cabin in the Woods from cowriters Joss Whedon and Drew Goddard, according to Hollywood Reporter.

The first movie to be green-lit by new studio head Mary Parent, it allows Goddard and Whedon to continue the relationship they began writing for TV series Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

In announcing the decision, Parent said, "We couldn't be more excited to green-light our first film with Joss and Drew and for Drew to be making his directorial debut at MGM. Not surprisingly, Cabin is one of the most original and clever scripts I've ever read. It's a visceral thrill ride and I'll leave it at that."

Goddard, these days, is a bit of a cult favorite for movie buffs, riding the wave of his success writing Cloverfield. Whedon has a long history of hits, working on Speed and Toy Story.

"This couldn't have turned out better for me," said Whedon. "I'm goofy with the love for this script, and with Drew at the helm and Mary at the . . . other part of the helm . . . it'll be great! Mary has been a terrific collaborator and mentor, and for her to respond so passionately -- and decisively -- to our project means a great deal."

Goddard expressed a similar enthusiasm, though remained similarly hush on specifics.

"I get to make a movie with my best friend at a studio that's shown us nothing but aggressive love from the start. This script is very near and dear to my heart-I can't wait to step behind the camera and mess up all the parts Joss wrote."

Though excitement is building, few plot details have been released. About the title, Goddard said, "There's a reason the title is so straightforward. It's its own sub-genre, the cabin in the woods, and this is sort of our take on it. It's fresh and new."

No details have been released about when the movie might hit cinemas.