Just two months ago, Disney had hired a writer to adapt the hit novel Peter and the Starcatchers into a live-action film that would tell the early days of one of their most recognizable animated faces: Peter Pan. Since then, there have been little updates on the project as it's currently in the script phase. Meanwhile, ex-Hunger Games director Gary Ross has had his next project wide open since his option to not return for the franchise's second installment Catching Fire. Now in the midst of a day full of Catching Fire casting updates, it seems Ross and the Disney project may become one.

THR reports that Ross is currently in negotiations to direct Peter and the Starcatchers for Walt Disney Pictures. As of right now there is no set production start or release date for this potential beginning of an all-new trilogy for the studio, but could film as early as next spring. Ross has not yet picked his next project and while Starcatchers could be it, there is simply no guarantee. Currently, the script is being written by Jesse Wigutow.

The story follows the young orphan Peter (who doesn't learn of his surname until the original novel) in a "fast-paced adventure after he and his mates [The Lost Boys] are dispatched to an island ruled by the evil King Zarboff. They set sail aboard the Never Land, a ship carrying a precious and mysterious trunk in its cargo hold, and the journey quickly becomes fraught with excitement and danger." They are joined by the female lead of Molly, who eventually turns out to be the mother of Wendy and her two brothers from the Barrie's first story of the fantastical boy.

Back in 2005, Disney had hired Jay Wolpert to adapt the film for 3D animation, but that never came to fruition. With an arrangement for Disney Theatrical, Peter and the Starcatchers has been off-Broadway for three years now until the play moved to the Brooks Atkinson Theater. Since then, the play has received five Tony awards from this year's earlier presentation and acclaim by many.

What do you think of Ross possibly directing the prequel? Let us know either in the comments below, or tweet us @FilmThrasher on Twitter!