DiCaprio and "Akira"

Two decades ago, "Akira," the critcally acclaimed anime movie, turned the world of animation upside down and quickly became regarded as one of the greatest animated films of all time. I suppose it was only a matter of time before someone thought of the "brilliant" idea of making a live action movie based on it. At least there's some real talent backing it.

Leonardo DiCaprio is producing and is rumored to star in two movies covering the "Akira" saga. Word is that the film will be based more on the manga (Japanese comic book) than the movie because it offers enough material to span over two flicks.

Oscar winning, Irish short film director Ruairi Robinson is set to direct. The first film is slated for summer 2009.