Imagi Animation Studios have optioned rights from Japan's Tezuka Productions Company Limited, to produce a CG animated feature based on "Astro Boy", created by Osamu Tezuka.
Originally known in Japanese as "Tetsuwan Atom" (translated as "Iron Fisted Atom"), 'Astro Boy' first appeared as a manga comic series in 1952, drawn by Osamu Tezuka.
The original TV series, broadcast in Japan circa 1963-1966, was the first cartoon to embody the artistic aesthetics later referred to as 'anime'.
"Astro Boy" was remade in the 1980's as "Shin Tetsuwan Atomu" and again as "Astro Boy" in 2003.
The franchise has enjoyed success in merchandising and toys, culminating in the character's 2004 induction into the 'Robot Hall of Fame'.
The original "Astro Boy" focuses on the android 'Atom', who faces personal challenges while trying to adapt in a human world.
The "Astro Boy" feature will have a new storyline, with CG production produced in Imagi's Hong Kong studio. Specializing in computer animation, Imagi also has affiliated offices in Los Angeles and Tokyo...
