The Taika Waititi Akira movie cancellation has been confirmed following Warner Bros. relinquishing its grip on the live-action adaptation after holding the rights for two decades. This decision halts any further plans for Waititi’s version, leaving the highly anticipated project in limbo just as industry watchers hoped it might finally move forward.
Kodansha Seeks New Studio for Akira
Kodansha, the original publisher that introduced Akira to readers in 1982, now owns the rights once again. According to reports, Kodansha is actively seeking new partners and has approached major studios and streaming services about taking on the adaptation. With Warner Bros. no longer involved, streaming giants like Netflix and Amazon are rumored to be interested due to their deep pockets and ongoing investments in science fiction content. There is also speculation that Apple could emerge as a potential player, given its dedication to releasing high-quality sci-fi productions on Apple TV+.
Two Decades of False Starts and A-List Attachments
The live-action adaptation of Akira has seen over 20 years of development uncertainty. Warner Bros. acquired the rights in 2002, but a series of creative changes and obstacles kept the movie from realization. Filmmakers like Stephen Norrington, well-known for projects such as Blade and The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, were previously attached. High-profile figures including Leonardo DiCaprio and, allegedly, Christopher Nolan have also been linked to Akira at different times, further fueling anticipation.
Actors Garrett Hedlund, Kirsten Stewart, Helena Bonham-Carter, Ken Watanabe, Chris Evans, and Joseph Gordon-Levitt were all reportedly involved at various points, either in concept art or casting conversations. Despite big industry names and growing fan interest, no version ever advanced to production under Warner Bros.
The Story and Legacy of Akira
Akira remains a foundational title in Japanese cyberpunk, centering around Kaneda and his friend Tetsuo in a ravaged Neo-Tokyo. The plot follows Tetsuo as he acquires dangerous psychic powers through a government experiment, leading to escalating conflict with the military, resistance groups, and a group of children bearing similar abilities. Central to the tale is Akira, whose overwhelming powers once caused the city’s devastation. The narrative delves deeply into themes such as government corruption, identity struggles, and the perils of unrestrained power.
The enduring impact of Akira began with its manga by Katsuhiro Otomo, who later directed the acclaimed 1988 animated movie. The story’s powerful vision has inspired generations, cementing Akira as a revered work both within Japan and internationally.
Uncertain Future for Akira Adaptation
With the Taika Waititi Akira movie cancellation and Warner Bros. stepping aside, Kodansha’s efforts to shop the rights introduce yet another chapter of uncertainty. Potential involvement from Netflix, Amazon, or Apple raises new possibilities, but it remains unclear if the legendary project will finally come to fruition or continue to exist as one of cinema’s most enduring what-ifs.
