Britt Robertson, Dennis Quaid Join DreamWorks’ ‘A Dog’s Purpose’ (Exclusive)

Britt Robertson and Dennis Quaid are going to the dogs.

The actors have signed on to star in A Dog’s Purpose, DreamWorks’ adaptation of the beloved book by W. Bruce Cameron being directed by Lasse Hallstrom.

K.J. Apa, Juliet Rylance and Peggy Lipton have also joined the project, which centers on a devoted dog that is reincarnated several times and — even as it helps its many owners — always has the aim of being reunited with his original owner and best friend.

Also signing onto the project is Walden Media, which has produced films including The Chronicles of Narnia series, Bridge to Terabithia, Charlotte’s Web and the Journey to the Center of the Earth series. The company will co-finance and co-produce A Dog’s Purpose.

“We are proud to once again partner with the great team at DreamWorks on A Dog’s Purpose, a heartfelt and uplifting story that is in great hands with Lasse Hallstrom directing,” said Frank Smith, president and CEO of Walden Media. “This film is a perfect addition as we continue to build and diversify our slate and bring audiences movies that inspire and entertain.”

Cameron and Cathryn Michon and Audrey Wells wrote the script for the multi-generational story, and Gavin Polone is producing with Alan Blomquist and Mark Sourian serving as executive producers. 

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Robertson and Quaid make up part of the main storyline, although at different timelines. Robertson is playing a high school-aged girl named Hannah who falls in love with the high school quarterback. Quaid is playing the quarterback as an older man.

The movie will begin shooting in Winnipeg, Canada starting this month.

“This heartwarming and humorous tale is a great addition to our quality storytelling brand,” said Michael Wright, CEO of DreamWorks Studios. “Together with our partners at Walden, we believe that with Lasse Hallstrom directing, A Dog’s Purpose will find its way into the hearts of families everywhere.”

Robertson was most recently seen in Disney’s Tomorrowland opposite George Clooney and Nicholas Sparks‘ adaptation The Longest Ride. She’s attached to indie Jack Goes Home with Nikki Reed and sci-fi film Out of This World with Asa Butterfield. She’s repped by Innovative Artists.

Quaid will soon be seen in Truth, the Dan Rather film that stars Robert Redford and Cate Blanchett. His past credits include The Words, At Any Price and Vantage Point. He’s repped by WME and Hansen, Jacobson.

Apa appeared on the New Zealand TV series Shortland Street. He’s repped by WME, Luber Roklin and Red 11 Management

Rylance’s credits include Sinister and Sinister 2, and TV series The Knick. She’s repped by Gersh and Hamilton Hodell.

Lipton’s credits include The Postman, and she’s attached to the new Twin Peaks series. She’s repped by Progressive Artists Agency.

Walden Media, known for its work on family films, has been expanding and diversifying its slate with upcoming projects including  Universal’s Everest starring Jake Gyllenhaal, Josh Brolin and Jason Clarke and The BFG, directed by Steven Spielberg and based on Roald Dahl’s novel.