It's rare that classic anime shows get proper updates by a new creative team. Usually we're stuck with piss-poor adaptations like Dragon Ball: Evolution which leaves a taste of disgust amongst fans. With Imagi's upcoming adaptation of the classic anime Gatchaman they've seem to have to captured the essence of the series while giving it a fresh look.
If you're not familiar with Gatchaman it's a popular anime series from Tatsunoko, the famous anime company who also brought us Speed Racer amongst other classics. The show revolves around a group of heroes as they stand up against alien invaders. It may not be the most original or gripping plot but the series had a lot of charm and nice art direction.
The team at Imagi seemed to have done quite a good job updating Gatchaman based on the teaser trailer that has leaked online. I don't know about everyone else but I find it highly refreshing that we seem to be getting a CG movie that isn't overly kid friendly and seems to be slightly geared towards adults. It also helps that Paul Dini (Batman: The Animated Series) is writing the movie as it should inspire hope that the film won't be filled with fart jokes.
Gatchaman is currently planned for a 2010 release. To see some additional images check out Imagi's page for the movie here.
I think this movie will just fall through the cracks with the American audience which would be a shame.
I'm worried about that as well. Despite being a sci-fi action epic I think most people won't give it the time of day since Pixar isn't above the title. This sucks since the movie deserves better but it could also be a massive blow to Imagi since they've gone through some financial woes as of late and if Astro Boy and Gatchaman bomb then I think they may forced to close or downsize their staff and creative scope.
I have high hopes for Astro Boy and this is the first I've heard of this. The trailer looks pretty interesting so it will be nice when they release an HQ version online. Thanks for posting the cam footage Ian.
I think this movie will just fall through the cracks with the American audience which would be a shame.