The Simpsons Movie: According to Variety, active work on a concept for the pic began a few months ago, after 20th Century Fox's film division hammered out deals with key writers.

"This is our idea of how to whip up enthusiasm for an idea that hasn't been formed yet," Brooks said in a statement issued by 20th.

Chris Meledandri, studio's animation chief, said the studio was "very excited about the possibility of making a 'Simpsons' movie."

"However, we are in the very early stages of developing an idea for the movie," he added.

At least seven past and present writers of "The Simpsons" are said to be involved. Industry insiders believe Al Jean, Mike Scully, Mike Reiss, David Mirkin and George Meyer are all on board, in addition to Brooks and Groening.

Reiss is certainly involved: He's the scribe who talked about the project.

"They've wanted to do this since season two. It's been 13 years of wanting to do 'The Simpsons' movie," he said in an interview with DVDFantatic.com. "Finally Fox said, 'Let's just do it!' We never had the greatest idea that was compelling but Fox said, 'Maybe if we start paying you, you'll get inspired.' And sure enough, it worked!"

While Brooks said there's no final decision on an idea, Reiss said there is concept that seems to be hot.

"We've got a very good and interesting idea, and it's different from the show," he said. "You know, it's like the 'South Park' movie where it's just a bigger, longer, amplified version of the show. I can't tell you anything specific about it. My wife doesn't even know the secret."