Gundam Live-Action Film: Production Underway

A long-awaited live-action adaptation of the iconic Mobile Suit Gundam anime and toy franchise is finally moving forward. Bandai Namco and Legendary have officially partnered to co-finance the film, marking a significant step in bringing this beloved property to the big screen.

While initially announced in 2018, news on the project has been scarce. However, this recent confirmation from Legendary and the newly established Bandai Namco Filmworks America signals that fans can expect a theatrical release of the first-ever live-action Gundam film.

The companies have confirmed that Mobile Suit Gundam (currently untitled) will be written and directed by Kim Mickle, known for her work on Sweet Tooth, and will receive a global theatrical release.

This live-action venture represents a major undertaking for a franchise boasting an extensive catalog: 25 anime series, 34 animated films, 27 original anime productions, and a hugely successful toy line, generating over $900 million in annual revenue.

"We plan to steadily announce details as they become finalized," stated Legendary and Bandai Namco. While specific release dates and plot details remain under wraps, a teaser poster has been unveiled.

They further elaborated on the franchise's impact: "Mobile Suit Gundam, which debuted in 1979, revolutionized the 'real robot anime' genre. Departing from the simplistic good-versus-evil narratives prevalent in robot anime at the time, it presented realistic portrayals of war, meticulous scientific detail, and complex human dramas, treating robots—or 'mobile suits'—as weapons, sparking a phenomenal surge in popularity."