Earlier this week (May 20) we got news that the live-action remake of the acclaimed anime Akira is set to start shooting in July. Now, though, we’ve had another update. The Wrap reports that Akira will have a summer 2021 release date, slated for May 21.
As we’ve previously covered, Taika Waititi will be directing the adaptation of Katsuhiro Otomo’s manga, which became iconic as a 1988 film credited with bringing anime to a western audience. He’s been clear, though, that the focus will be on the original text, telling IGN back in 2017: “I would not do a remake of the movie. I would do an adaption of the books.”
Another big name now revealed to be involved in the production is Leonardo DiCaprio, who will produce alongside Jennifer Davisson (known for The Revenant) on behalf of his own production company, Appian Way.
Reassuringly, Waititi has spoken of his intentions to cast Asian teenagers in the primary roles, which will mean avoiding a whole Scarlett Johansson in Ghost in the Shell whitewashing debacle.