Turns out that the Akira project was not “shelved” as several reputable sources had reported over the past week.
The Hollywood Reporter said today that the project is still moving forward, has a script, and will be directed by Spanish Unknown director Jaume Collet-Serra.
“The anime property has been in development with a succession of writers and directors since WB grabbed the rights in 2008, but now the Spanish Unknown director has the helm for the live-action film version.”
All this makes me wonder how exactly the rumors started flying about that the project had been shelved, but I suppose that’s just Hollywood as usual.
The Reporter also stated: “Harry Potter adapter Steve Kloves has written the most recent draft of the screenplay, which is designed to turn Katsuhiro Otomo‘s classic graphic novel into a tentpole with a mid-level budget along the lines of WB’s Clash of the Titans.” This seems like an interesting development to me. I have really enjoyed most of the Harry Potter movies, and I feel like the right people could turn this project into something most fans would love.
Then again, I still can’t help but wonder why they have gone through so many potential writers, directors and rumored actors. I’m still skeptical, but I’m willing to give this project hope if people start pouring in some serious effort. Also, I think most fans would agree that a live action version of the motorcycle chase scene – if done well – could be absolutely incredible.
Can I make a recommendation to those working on this for Appian Way? The source material is good – damn good in fact – so don’t stray too far from it and you could make Akira into an excellent live action adaptation. Call in some of the creative team from the 1988 Japanese animated release, and while you’re at it make a friendly call to Katsuhiro Otomo.
Oh, and if it’s true that the project is still going to happen, was all that news about the motorcycle re-design false? Stay tuned to Big Shiny Robot and we’ll be sure to give you all the updates!