Image: Bandai Namco
The Gundam live-action movie is set to be released in theatres worldwide.
In an official press release on their website, Bandai Namco Filmworks Inc. has revealed that the company has signed an agreement with California-based mass media company Legendary Entertainment to co-finance a live-action movie based on the enduring Mobile Suit Gundam series.
Tentatively titled GUNDAM, the movie will be produced by Legendary Pictures, and is set to be written and directed by Jim Mickle, who also previously directed the Netflix fantasy TV series Sweet Tooth and the sci-fi thriller movie In The Shadow of the Moon. The movie, touted as Mobile Suit Gundam’s first live-action adaptation, is slated for a worldwide release. Further details are yet to be announced.
Netflix was originally slated to produce the live-action project in 2021, with Jordan Vogt-Roberts serving as producer and director, and Brian K. Vaughan as executive producer and script writer. No news of this collaboration has been made since its announcement, so it's likely that the Netflix live-action project has been scrapped.
Mobile Suit Gundam’s initial broadcast in 1979 paved the way for the Mecha genre as a 'real robot anime', focusing on realistic depictions of war, detailed scientific examinations, and relatable human drama. Mobile Suit Gundam has spawned 25 anime series, 34 movies, 27 OVAs, and more since its conception, becoming a much-loved cultural phenomenon that still touches the hearts of millions today.
On the other hand, Legendary Pictures has a long and celebrated influence in Hollywood, having produced a total of 75 films. Legendary Pictures is best known for Christopher Nolan’s Interstellar, Rob Letterman’s Pokemon: Detective Pikachu, Denis Villeneuve’s Dune and Dune: Part Two, and has also collaborated with Toho for the Godzilla-starring Monsterverse franchise.
In addition to this announcement, Bandai Namco has revealed that the company is establishing a North American subsidiary on April 1, 2025. Called Bandai Namco Filmworks America, LLC (BNFA), it will be a wholly owned subsidiary of Bandai Namco Holdings USA Inc., and will work together with Bandai Namco Filmworks Inc. to expand licensing and brand value of the Gundam francise overseas.
Mobile Suit Gundam is also releasing a new anime in collaboration with Studio Khara and Sunrise, titled Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX. The anime recently revealed new mobile suits, characters, and additional cast members.
While waiting for further details on this live-action adaptation, here’s a list of Mecha anime to watch if you’re a fan of Gundam!
