Follow us on Google News
Get the latest updates directly in your Google News feed
Movies based on animated series have a 50-50 chance of succeeding. The added pressure of a pre-established fanbase can either make or break the project. Genndy Tartakovsky is a legend in the animated world, with gems likeHotel Transylvania,Primal, Dexter’s Laboratory, and many more.
TheSamurai Jackanimated series which was released in 2001 became exponentially famous. However, most fans aren’t aware that there was once a live-action movie planned for the beloved series. One of the most famous faces in Hollywood, J.J. Abrams was approached to take on the task, but it unfortunately didn’t work out. Given the chance of the movie being planned again, action star Hiroyuki Sanada would be the best choice for the role.
Huge plans for the animated series: An unfortunate end
Genndy Tartakovsky‘sSamurai Jackseries had over the years established its niche fanbase. The animated show became so popular that the creator hoped to develop it for the big screen. In 2007, Frederator Films signed the creator to work on a live-action adaptation.
In an older article byFilm Junk (via Web Archive.org)the company had revealed that the project had gained a known face. Popular Hollywood filmmaker,J.J. Abramswas supposed to co-produce the upcoming film.
“I think it’s kind of a happy ending”: Hiroyuki Sanada Has the Strangest Response to Shōgun Ending That Did the Unthinkable to Anna Sawai
The anticipated 3D movie had a budget of $20 million and was being backed by Paramount Pictures. Unfortunately, things didn’t work out and the movie never saw the light of the day.
According to an interview Tartakovsky had withComing Soon, the opportunity was lost due to an unexpected diversion. The writer claimed that Abrams backed out to work on the 2013 film,Star Trek Into Darkness.
Hiroyuki Sanada’s Emmy Win Makes Him Literally Perfect for 1 Naruto Live-Action Role That Cannot Be Passed
Hollywood ruins everything.
Later, theHotel Transylvaniadirector revealed at the 2022 Comic-Con(via Inverse)that since then, several directors had reached out for other projects. Speaking of his series,Primalhe said he didn’t want Hollywood to make live-action versions of his series.
“He was making a strong statement”: Hiroyuki Sanada Came to Rescue Tom Cruise’s $456M Movie After Director Cast a Different Actor Instead of Shogun Star
Thank God that didn’t happen.
At the same time, he revealed that the scrapped script for theSamurai Jackfilm was disastrous. Tartakovsky claimed he was relieved the movie was called off.
Potential lead:The Last Samuraihimself
Hiroyuki Sanadahas been active in the industry for decades, appearing in major films. He starred inHugh Jackman‘sThe Wolverine,Avengers: Endgame, Mortal Kombat, and evenJohn Wick: Chapter 4.
Kevin Feige Will Be Foolish to Not Bring Hiroyuki Sanada Back to the MCU After Badly Wasting Him in Endgame
The Japanese actor gained prominence in Hollywood due to his roles inThe Twilight Samurai(2002),The Last Samurai(2003), andRush Hour 3(2007). But it was the 2024 FX historical drama series,Shōgunwhich garnered him critical acclaim.
The actor portrayed one of his best performances, physically and emotionally, as Yoshii Toranaga in the show. His swordsmanship and lethal moves proved that age was just a number. The 63-year-old actor would be one of the best choices to play the live-action version ofSamurai Jack.
If You Loved Hiroyuki Sanada’s Shogun, There’s No Way You Can Miss This Historical Anime Set in Alternate Japan
If the film is ever made again then Sanada essaying the role of the elusive samurai would be brilliant. Fans of both the actor and the show would love to see him bring authenticity to the unique storyline.
Shruti Pathak
Articles Published :286
An entertainment writer with a passion for storytelling that transcends genres, Shruti Pathak is currently pursuing her Bachelor of Arts in English. She is also a devoted poetry enthusiast, exploring the beauty of language and emotion through verse. Obsessed with the show Friends, a self-proclaimed swiftie, and inspired by classical literature these are just some characteristics that describe the novice writer. Newly joining FandomWire as an intern writer, she hopes to share her thoughts while sharpening her writing skills on various entertainment topics.
More from Shruti Pathak
“Let’s just hope that we’re still in the movie”: Real Reason Pumbaa Actor Was Terrified Disney Will Kick Him Out of The Lion King 1994
Racists Call It a Day: The Record Cynthia Erivo’s Wicked Box Office Just Broke in 8 Days Was What Many Once Hoped Would Be Joker 2
Barbenheimer 2025 Was Almost Here: Ariana Grande’s Wicked 2 Release Date Moved, Was It to Avoid Clashing With One of the Greatest Disney Sequels Ever?
Recommended
Honey Don’t! Cast: Is Chris Evans Playing a Villain in Margaret Qualley’s Upcoming August 22 Release
NYT Wordle Hints and Solution for June 20, 2025
‘Blue Beetle’ Turns Two: James Gunn’s DCU Has Forgotten Him But These 4 DC Shows Did Him Proud
Transformers Star Is Absolutely Right on Why He Rejected ‘The Penguin’
How Many Episodes Are Left in One Piece Egghead Arc? Explained
The Summer I Turned Pretty Theory Proves Jenny Han’s Name Game Ruins Season 3 Finale
Genndy TartakovskyHiroyuki SanadaJ.J. AbramsSamurai Jack series
