LOS ANGELES, March 11 (UPI) -- The presidents of domestic and international distribution for Warner Bros. said the live action version of "Speed Racer" will open on May 9, 2008.
Dan Fellman and Versonika Kwan-Rubinek made the announcement that the movie would open two weeks earlier than previously stated Friday.
"We have been excited about 'Speed Racer' since we first announced the project. We see it as a movie with broad-based, worldwide appeal -- from adults to teens to families -- making it the perfect film to lead off our exciting 2008 Summer slate, " Fellman said. "We want to give 'Speed Racer' the maximum playability throughout the season, so moving it up to the earliest possible date made the most sense."
Kwan-Rubinek said, "Opening 'Speed Racer' day-and-date with the U.S. in most international markets will not only allow audiences to see the film early but will maximize business before the start of the European Soccer Championships."
The film is being written and directed by Larry and Andy Wachowski, famous for their "Matrix" movies.
The live action film will be based upon the classic cartoon series from anime pioneer Tatsuo Yoshida.
