Netflix to distribute Legendary's Gundam live-action film starring Sydney Sweeney

Netflix is reportedly set to handle distribution of the live-action adaptation of the iconic Gundam franchise from Legendary Entertainment. Sydney Sweeney and Noah Centineo will star in the project, with Jim Mickle, known for his work on Sweet Tooth, directing.

Plot details remain under wraps, but this will mark the first live-action theatrical feature set in the Gundam universe. The project is being co-developed by Legendary and franchise owner Bandai Namco Filmworks, based on Mickle's own script.

Gundam is considered one of the most influential anime franchises and pioneered the sci-fi mecha subgenre – stories centered on giant fighting robots. The narrative unfolds in the Universal Century, a future where humanity has colonized space. When rebellion erupts between Earth and its colonies, the conflict plays out through pilots operating massive mechanized machines known as mobile suits. The multimedia franchise launched with the Mobile Suit Gundam series in 1979. Since then, the universe created by Yoshiyuki Tomino has expanded to encompass 83 animated series and films, while generating $600 million annually through merchandise sales.

Legendary Entertainment announced development of a Gundam film in spring 2021. Jordan Vogt-Roberts was initially attached to direct following his work with the studio on the Monsterverse hit Kong: Skull Island. However, he later departed the project.

Netflix and Legendary Entertainment have not provided official comments on the matter.