Exclusive: Timothee Chalamet In Talks For Gundam Movie At Netflix
Timothee Chalamet is in talks to play Kit, the lead of Netflix's live-action Gundam movie for Netflix.
Dune: Part Two hits theaters later this year, but it looks like that won’t be the last time its star leads a science fiction epic. Our trusted and proven sources tell us Timothee Chalamet is in talks to star in Netflix’s upcoming live-action adaptation of Gundam, which will be directed by Jordan Vogt-Roberts. Chalamet will play Kit, the lead of the film.
Word that the popular Gundam anime franchise was being brought to live-action first emerged in 2018, and by 2021 it was reported that Netflix — home to an increasing number of live-action anime adaptations — would be its home. The update of Timothee Chalamet‘s talks to join the film is the first significant casting news that’s come out so far.
It’s likely no mistake updates about casting are coming out now, considering the date. Last year, What’s on Netflix reported Gundam was scheduled to begin production this June. If true, and if that production start date is going to be met, the creative team would need to get either Timothee Chalamet or another lead locked in soon.
Considering his experience and interests, Jordan Vogt-Roberts is potentially the perfect director for Netflix’s Gundam. His biggest blockbuster to date was 2017’s Kong: Skull Island (which includes a fairly Gundam-sized protagonist), and he’s attached to the long-brewing adaptation of Metal Gear Solid.
It’s honestly surprising it’s taken quite this long for Timothee Chalamet or anyone else to lead a live-action Gundam film. If you’re unfamiliar with the franchise, the name likely doesn’t mean much, but it nets Japan’s Bandai billions in revenue each year. Premiering in 1979 with the anime series Mobile Suit Gundam, the franchise has spawned dozens of series, manga, novels, movies, video games, and other media.
He’s only 27 years old, but it looks like Timothee Chalamet is no slouch at getting himself attached to iconic franchises. By the end of this year he’ll have appeared twice on the big screen as Dune’s Paul Atreides, as well as succeeding Johnny Depp in the role of the titular chocolate factory eccentric in Wonka. Adding Gundam to his list, provided the talks go well, will be another triumph for the young star.
Of course, with Netflix’s so far bumpy track record when it comes to anime adaptations, one wonders if Timothee Chalamet may want to give the project a pass. While the streamer’s live-action takes on Bleach and Rurouni Kenshin have been relatively well received, it’s tough to forget the massive failures of similar adaptations like Death Note and Cowboy Bebop. Fans seem hopeful for the upcoming One Piece revamp, but its specific release date hasn’t been revealed.
