Hughes bros. in talks to direct "Akira"

By Siewaun
Reference: Variety

Allen and Albert Hughes "The Book of Eli" are in negotiations with Warner Bros. to direct Katsuhiro Otomo's graphic novel based live-action movie "Akira."

Warner Bros. acquired the feature rights to Katsuhiro Otomo’s 6-volume graphic novel with Legendary Pictures from publisher Kodansha two years ago.

Leonardo DiCaprio will co-produce the movie with Warner Bros. through his Appian Way's production banner, and he will also be starring as well.

Mark Fergus, Hawk Ostby and Gary Whitta who wrote "The Book of Eli" script, will write the script.

Story is set in New Manhattan, a metropolis that was rebuilt after being destroyed 31 years ago.

Katsuhiro Otomo adapted his novel into anime film in 1988, with its structure and scenes heavily informed by the manga and its serial origins.