If you're unfamiliar with the little critters above called Beastlies, J.J. Abrams is about to make sure that changes.  The director of the upcoming Star Trek Into Darkness sequel has reportedly purchased the film and animated series rights to Beastlies, the monstrously cute hand-sculpted creations of Leslie Levings. It looks like the plan is to turn the sculptures into a franchise for kids, not unlike The Smurfs.  I'm going to go ahead and assume that one of Abrams' children brought the creations to his attention; I hope he ups their allowance because there's a good chance Beastlies could be quite successful.  Hit the jump for more on Beastlies. 

beastlies-louis

A recent report from Latino Review brought Abrams' acquisition of Beastlies film and animated series rights to our attention.  Here's what they had to say:

Maestro JJ Abrams, Mister Star Trek and Lost has bought the rights to BEASTLIES. These incredible cute monstrous figures are hand made one at a time by artist Leslie Levings. Their eyes are far apart and they have big ears or horns but gosh darn it they are sweet looking creatures. Apparently Abrams, who has conquered all live action worlds, intends to turn Beastlies into the modern day equivalent of the Smurfs! An animated series and film are both on the agenda.

I'm no financial analyst, but if this news is confirmed and Abrams goes ahead with both an animated series creation and a feature film franchise, it might not be a bad idea to buy up a bunch of these little guys now.   And if you want to see them up close and in person, check them out at DesignerCon this weekend in Pasadena.

beastlies-nibblets