After decades of uncertainty and development hell, the long-awaited live-action adaptation of Akira has finally received a significant update, reigniting hope among fans of the iconic manga and anime classic.
Warner Bros. Exits, Rights Revert to Kodansha
In a dramatic turn, Warner Bros.—which had held the movie rights since 2002—has officially relinquished its claim to the project. The rights have now reverted to Kodansha, the original Japanese manga publisher, ending more than 20 years of stalled attempts and creative turnover at the studio. This shift opens the door for new producers and studios to step in, with several already expressing interest in taking on the legendary cyberpunk property.
Taika Waititi and Leonardo DiCaprio Still Attached
Despite the studio shakeup, director Taika Waititi remains attached to the project, with Leonardo DiCaprio’s production company Appian Way still on board as a producer. Producer Andrew Lazar recently confirmed that fans can expect more concrete news “in the next couple of months,” marking the first substantial progress update in years. Waititi’s commitment to casting Asian actors and focusing on the manga’s original themes has been a key point of reassurance for longtime fans wary of Hollywood adaptations.
A Storied History of Delays and Hurdles
The journey to bring Akira to live-action has been one of Hollywood’s most infamous sagas. Since Warner Bros. acquired the rights, the project has cycled through at least five directors and ten writers, with repeated concerns over whitewashing and the challenge of adapting a story so deeply rooted in Japanese history and culture. Previous attempts to Westernize the narrative met with backlash, and the project was repeatedly delayed, most recently when Waititi prioritized directing Thor: Love and Thunder.
Why This Update Matters
Akira is one of the most influential works in science fiction, credited with shaping modern anime and inspiring a generation of filmmakers. The 1988 animated film remains a touchstone for adult animation and cyberpunk storytelling. The prospect of a live-action adaptation has generated both excitement and skepticism, but the latest developments suggest a renewed commitment to honoring the source material’s legacy.
What’s Next for Akira?
With the rights now back in Japanese hands and a high-profile creative team still interested, the Akira live-action movie appears closer than ever to escaping development limbo. All eyes are on Kodansha and the next wave of producers as the project prepares to be pitched to studios and streamers worldwide. For fans, the promise of a significant update in the coming months is the most concrete sign yet that Neo-Tokyo might finally come to life on the big screen.
Stay tuned as the story of Akira’s Hollywood journey enters a bold new chapter.
