Universal Pictures and Illumination Entertainment are planning a new animated spin-off featuring the Minions from the 2010 hit Despicable Me. The studios are aiming at a 2014 release date for the untitled project.

Pierre Coffin (Despicable Me) will direct alongside co-director Kyle Balda (Dr. Seuss' the Lorax), with Brian Lynch (Hop, Puss in Boots) providing the screenplay. Pierre Coffin and his Despicable Me co-director Chris Renaud will provide the voices for the Minions as well.

No story details were given except that the lovable yellow creatures will interact with humans. Certain Despicable Me characters will be back, along with a host of new roles. Production is being coordinated with the sequel Despicable Me 2, set for release next July, so that both projects can be released one year apart from each other.

Despicable Me took in over $540 worldwide from a $69 million production budget. The Minions are also featured in the Universal Studios Orlando theme park ride Despicable Me Minion Mayhem.