"Ghost in the Shell" is set to make its Hollywood interpretation release this March and it could pave the way for more live action adaptation of popular anime movies and series. Warner Bros. is already pushing hard by acquiring two popular titles that could see possible releases in the future.
From 'Akira' to 'Attack on Titan'
Warner Bros. made news a few years ago when they acquired the rights of "Akira" and it's considered one of the most popular anime and manga series. A sci-fi opera with futuristic elements and social commentary, Gamespot reported that a trilogy was planned for the adaptation in 2012 but it was ultimately scrapped. The planned trilogy only reached pre-production stage.
But a recent acquisition of the popular movie studio could reach full production and release in the coming years. According to Deadline, Warner Bros. is recently eyeing the rights for anime and manga series "Attack on Titan" for Hollywood live action adaptation. Unlike "Akira" AOT already has a Japanese live action adaptation and was released in two parts in 2015.
Building from 'Ghost in the Shell'
Warner Bros. reported plan for acquiring "Attack on Titan" is one of the growing trend of Hollywood's acquisition of popular Japanese titles. Although "Godzilla" is already an established name, others are still making their mark and some movies fell flat on its release. The Hollywood adaptation for the much loved "Dragon Ball Z" was met with criticism.
"Ghost in the Shell" is in the line for March release and it's already met with some resistance due to its casting choices. But the Hollywood's interpretation of some of the most popular anime movies will continue especially if the Scarlett Johansson's sci-fi epic becomes a commercial and critical success. Warner Bros. could push through with AOT and more studios could follow suit.
