Lionsgate has acquired U.S. distribution rights from Crystal Sky Pictures to the first "Bratz" live-action theatrical feature reports the trades.

The film centers on four teenage girls from diverse backgrounds who use their friendship to discover their individuality, is set to begin production in February. Casting has not been announced.

"Bratz: The Movie" is to be directed by Sean McNamara ("Raise Your Voice") and written by Susan Estelle Jansen ("The Lizzie McGuire Movie").

The indie studio also signed a distribution deal with MGA for future animated "Bratz" direct-to-DVD features, taking over that franchise from 20th Century Fox.