20th Century Fox has released the first The Book of Life images for the upcoming Guillermo del Toro-produced animated feature inspired by the Mexican holiday “Dia de los Muertos” (aka “Day of the Dead”).  Directed by Jorge Gutierrez, the film revolves around three childhood friends—Manolo (Diego Luna), Maria (Zoe Saldana), and Joaquin (Channing Tatum)—who find themselves in a love triangle as the gods wager on who will win Maria's heart.  Manolo is the central character of the story, as he dreams of breaking his family tradition of bullfighting to become a guitar player.  Over the course of the fantastical story, audiences are taken to The Land of the Living, the Land of the Remembered, and the Land of the Forgotten as Manolo seeks to live a complete and fulfilling life that is remembered by the living.  Promising stuff, especially with del Toro involved.

Hit the jump to check out the Book of Life images.  The film also features the voices of Hector Elizondo, Danny Trejo, Ice Cube, and Placido DomingoThe Book of Life opens in 3D on October 17th.

Take a look at the Book of Life images below, via USA Today.