Noah Centineo is set to join the cast of the upcoming live-action adaptation of the iconic Japanese anime, Gundam. The actor, known for his role in *To All the Boys I’ve Loved Before*, is currently in discussions with Legendary Entertainment, which is co-developing the project alongside Bandai Namco Filmworks. He will star opposite Sydney Sweeney, who was confirmed for the film earlier this year.
Production Details and Creative Team
The script for Gundam has been penned by Jim Mickle, who will also take the helm as director. Mickle is recognized for his work on the series *Sweet Tooth* and will produce the film alongside his partner, Linda Moran, through their production company, Nightshade. While specific plot details remain undisclosed, production is scheduled to commence in early 2024.
Originally launched in 1979 as a television series, Gundam initially faced challenges in attracting an audience. It saw a significant rise in popularity during the 1980s, thanks to a variety of adaptations, including animated feature films, novels, and video games. The franchise is set in the distant future within the Universal Century, where human colonies in space fight for independence from Earth, primarily using giant robots known as Mobile Suits. Today, Gundam encompasses 83 animated series and movies, generating an impressive $600 million annually through its merchandise.
Background on the Gundam Franchise
The project was first announced by Legendary Entertainment and Netflix in spring 2021, with filmmaker Jordan Vogt-Roberts initially set to direct. However, both Vogt-Roberts and the streaming service are no longer involved in the live-action film.
Noah Centineo has recently completed filming for the *Street Fighter* movie and is also slated to appear in *Iconoclast*, along with a prequel to the *Rambo* franchise. In this upcoming film, Centineo will portray a young John Rambo during the Vietnam War, with production expected to begin in early 2026 in Thailand. Directed by Jalmari Helander from a screenplay by Rory Haines and Sohrab Noshirvani, Lionsgate is anticipated to distribute the film.
The *Rambo* franchise began in 1982 with *First Blood*, which achieved commercial success despite mixed critical reception. Sylvester Stallone reprises his role as the Vietnam War veteran in four sequels, including *Rambo: First Blood Part II* (1985), *Rambo III* (1988), *Rambo* (2008), and *Rambo: Last Blood* (2019). The latest installment faced significant criticism, including from the original creator, David Morrell, who expressed his disappointment on social media regarding the film’s quality.
As the Gundam adaptation progresses, fans of the franchise eagerly anticipate how Centineo and Sweeney will bring these beloved characters to life on the big screen.
