Live Action Evangelion
In May of 2003 ADV Films (the North American distributor of the Neon Genesis Evangelion television series) announced a joint collaboration with Gainax and Weta Workshop to bring a live-action adaptation of Evangelion to theaters. While response among fans ranged from cautious optimism to outright excitement, the project has since stalled in what is commonly referred to as 'development hell'.
The project faces ongoing delays for several reasons, including the lack of a suitable director (though several A-list directors have expressed interest), and the busy schedule of the New Zealand-based Weta Workshop, who have been preoccupied with other high-profile productions including King Kong (2005), The Chronicles of Narnia: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe (2005) and the upcoming Halo (2008). Subsequent appearances of ADV Films co-founder Matt Greenfield have however confirmed the film to be in pre-production, with an estimated release date ranging between 2008 and 2015.
Although the script is not final until a director is selected, the film is expected to be part of a trilogy, and is likely to adapt the first several episodes of the television series. Minor plot changes are expected for aesthetic reasons, such as with the adaptation of The Lord of the Rings trilogy. While Hideaki Anno (the creator of Evangelion) will not direct the picture, it has been suggested that he may be involved in an advisory capacity.
News and Tidbits
- September 2007: Anime Weekend Atlanta
When asked at Anime Weekend Atlanta about Live Action Evangelion, ADV's David Williams replied "the EVA movie is now in Production." While it is unlikely that this means building sets or filming, a director has likely been selected. He would not comment on who that may be.
- April 2006: Tekkoshocon 2006
Matt Greenfield makes an appearance at Tekkoshocon 2006 (an Anime convention in Pennsylvania), where he discusses Evangelion at length. Topics include the history of Evangelion, as well as the director, script, and cast of the upcoming live-action project. [Full Article]
- November 2005: Fortune Magazine
Fortune Magazine reports that ADV Films has raised about half of the $100 million needed to produce the live-action Evangelion project. [Full Article]
- May 2003: Press Release
ADV Films President and CEO John Ledford officially announces their collaboration with Gainax and Weta Workshop to bring a live-action adaptation of Evangelion to the big screen. [Full Article]
Concept Art by Weta Workshop
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