Zac Efron to star in "Akira" live-action adaption?

The rumor has it that actor Zac Efron has signed on to play as Shotaro Kaneda in the Hollywood live-action adaption of the Japanese cyber-punk film, "Akira".

In a nut shell, Shotaro Kaneda is the leader of a delinquent teenage motorcycle gang, and the protagonist of the film. His second-in-command, Tetsuo, encounters a wizened old child during the middle of a deadly fight, and acquires extraordinary psychic abilities. Over time, his mental state deteriorates as his power grows, and Shotaro is forced to stop his friend from destroying Neo-Tokyo.

The Hollywood adaptation will bring the storyline to “New Manhattan”, and naturally the iconic red bike will make its appearance. Not much has been disclosed about the production, as its still in its development stages, but interestingly, Joseph Gordon-Levitt (of “Inception” fame) was rumored to play “Tetsuo”. However, Gordon-Levitt’s agency quickly denied the actor’s involvement.

Zac Efron - Charlie St. Cloud Official Trailer

Source: tokyohive.com