In TIGER & BUNNY, the story takes place in a near-futuristic city called “Stern Bild,” where professional superheroes fight crime and save lives on the popular show, “Hero TV.” The old school veteran of the show is Tiger, whose popularity is based on his character, charisma and track record. Tiger is challenged for “King of the Heroes” by the younger, more dashing Bunny, who becomes an immediate rival. But when a super-powered terrorist begins reeking international havoc, the two must join forces to face their biggest challenge yet.
Global Road is coming aboard with Bandai Namco Pictures, Imagine Entertainment, and Weed Road Pictures to produce and distribute the film with series producer Ozaki Masayuku, Imagine’s Howard along with Brian Grazer and Erica Huggins, and Weed Road’s own Akiva Goldsman. Bandai Namco launched the franchise in 2011 as both manga and late-night anime prior to two animated films the following year, Tiger & Bunny: The Beginning in 2012, and Tiger & Bunny: The Rising in 2014. Both became box-office hit and are listed in top-twenty charts of highest-grossing Japanese films originating from TV anime since 2012, earning the franchise continued praise from fans at expos and comic-cons to date.
Harris stated, “We are thrilled to partner with Imagine, Bandai Namco and Weed Road on TIGER & BUNNY. Mr. Ozaki and his team’s globally recognized story and beloved characters provide us with the potential to not only produce a feature film that will appeal to the masses, but also generate a fully developed franchise across the theatrical, television and digital entertainment spaces.”
Bandai Namco Pictures’ Masayuki Ozaki added, “After a long voyage, we have finally reached new ground. We are truly honored to be able to create the future with our collaborative partner whom we wholeheartedly trust. We are determined to live up to our supporters’ and fans’ expectations and bring this exciting project to life.”
“Ron, Brian and I are excited to be partnering with Global Road Entertainment and continuing our relationship with Lynn Harris and Rob Friedman to bring the live action feature film based on the beloved series TIGER & BUNNY to fans and audiences around the world,” said Erica Huggins, President of Imagine Entertainment.
Goldsman further added, “I couldn’t be more excited to partner with old friends and new to help introduce TIGER & BUNNY to the rest of the world.”