Even though DreamWorks already has a release date set for their forthcoming animated feature, Mr. Peabody and Sherman, we’re finally getting word on who will be voicing the lead characters; Variety has just reported that Modern Family‘s Ty Burrell (who plays Phil Dunphy, for those who watch) and Max Charles will be filling those roles.

Based on Jay Ward‘s classic cartoon, Rob Minkoff (The Lion King) will be directing the project, with Craig Wright (Six Feet Under) writing the script. Alex Schwartz and Denise Cascino (Shrek the Third) will be producing the project, with Tiffany Ward, Eric Ellenbogen and Jason Clark set as executive producers.

Burrell will voice Mr. Peabody, “the world’s smartest person, who happens to be a dog. When his “pet” boy Sherman (Charles) uses their time-traveling machine without permission, historical events spiral out of control to disastrous and comical results. It’s up to this unexpected team to put things back on track before the space-time continuum is destroyed.”

Bill Damaschke, the chief creative office at DreamWorks Animation stated, “the brilliantly comedic and paternal sensibilities of Ty Burrell make him ideal for the role of the beloved Mr. Peabody, and we are thrilled that he will join Max Charles as the leads of Mr. Peabody and Sherman.” Being a fan of Modern Family and Burrell myself, I actually couldn’t agree more with Damaschke. He has a great voice for an animated feature and will be recognizable to those who are fans of the Emmy award winning show. Burrell‘s soon-to-be co-star will play the young Peter Parker in The Amazing Spider-Man and has also been cast in the Farrelly brother’s Three Stooges adaptation

Even though the demand for 3D feature has seemingly gone down in the past few months, all of DreamWorks animated features are being produced in the format. I pretty much loathe 3D gimmicks, but it makes sense for a kid’s movie as the majority have used it in the last few years. Mr. Peabody and  Sherman will be hitting theaters March 14th, 2014.

Do you think Burrell and Charles will make a good Peabody and Sherman?