Bandai now plans to bring the movie to the big screen, with production currently in full swing.
Bandai Namco Filmworks Inc., a prominent member of the Bandai Namco Group, has signed a joint investment agreement with LEGENDARY to produce the first Hollywood live-action adaptation of the iconic Mobile Suit Gundam series. This major announcement was made in January 2025, with the film currently titled GUNDAM (tentative).
Since its inception in 1979, Mobile Suit Gundam has revolutionized the anime landscape by introducing the "real robot" genre—a stark departure from the traditional good-versus-evil narratives that dominated robot anime at the time. The series gained acclaim for its realistic portrayal of warfare, where mobile suits are depicted as advanced military weapons. This, combined with rigorous scientific concepts and deeply woven human drama, sparked a cultural phenomenon that has continued to grow for over four decades.
The Gundam franchise boasts an impressive legacy, including 25 television series, 34 theatrical films, 27 OVAs, and a wealth of streaming content, event videos, and TV specials. Beyond its on-screen success, Gundam has become a global merchandising powerhouse, spanning toys, plastic models (Gunpla), video games, and related products, with annual sales exceeding 140 billion yen.
According to Japanese news outlet Oricon, this forward momentum for the Gundam live-action film comes alongside additional strategic developments from parent company Bandai. The film will be produced by a team with a proven track record in delivering blockbuster hits over the past two decades, including the critically acclaimed Dune films directed by Denis Villeneuve. This science fiction pedigree ensures that Gundam’s complex themes and futuristic vision will be faithfully brought to life on the big screen, aligning with Bandai’s broader efforts to expand the brand’s global footprint.
The upcoming live-action film, GUNDAM, will be produced by Legendary Pictures, with Jim Mickle, known for his work on Sweet Tooth, attached as both director and screenwriter. The film is slated for a worldwide theatrical release, marking a significant milestone in Gundam’s storied history.
To support this ambitious project, Bandai Namco Filmworks America, LLC will be established on April 1, 2025. As a 100% subsidiary of Bandai Namco Holdings USA Inc., this new North American entity will oversee the production of GUNDAM and spearhead efforts to expand the franchise’s licensing and brand presence internationally. This strategic move underscores Bandai Namco’s commitment to growing Gundam’s influence beyond Japan and solidifying its status as a global entertainment phenomenon.
Fans around the world can look forward to this exciting new chapter as Mobile Suit Gundam makes its bold leap to the big screen, uniting generations of viewers with its timeless story of conflict, humanity, and technological wonder.
SOURCE: GUNDAM INFO
GOOGLE ACCOUNT IS REQUIRED TO POST ON OUR COMMENT SECTION.