A few months back, Lionsgate announced that Francis Lawrence would be directing an adaptation of Homer’s epic poem The Odyssey. Clearly impressed with what he has been able to do with The Hunger Games franchise, the studio is moving forward with the project, which has been slowly developing.
Now, there are reports that X-Men film franchise star Hugh Jackman could have the starring role in the adaptation.
The Hunger Games, one of Lionsgate’s most lucrative franchises, is coming to an end this year.
While the thought of that may be a bit sad for a few of their fans, it’s being reported that the same team that brought you Catching Fire and both Mockingjay Part I and Mockingjay Part II, will be adapting Homer’s Odyssey, the semi-sequel to Homer’s Iliad, into a new feature film.
I’m sure there are many Geeks of Doom readers in the ether of these intertubes that are familiar with the Chinese epic legend, Journey to the West. And those who are not will be familiar with many of its contemporary adaptations such as the cult-classic series Monkey (also known as Monkey Magic) or tersely ripped off in the awful Dragonball Z series (I’m waiting for the hate mail on that comment).
Well, be aware, fellow geeks, for something new adapted this way approaches – and I have to say, this looks like the maddest, most ridiculous, slapstick, and discombobulating version ever to be made. Directed by Derek Kok and Stephen Chow, the film (depending on what sources you dig up) seems to have three working titles internationally: Journey to the West, A Chinese Odyssey, and Odyssey, and is set for release in February in Hong Kong.
And after you see the trailer (embedded below), you will want it released here soon too!
Students of the Unusual™ comic cover used with permission of 3BoysProductions
The Mercuri Bros.™ comic cover used with permission of Prodigal Son Press