'Death Note' Movie Release Date Remains a Mystery: Director for Manga Adaptation Film Confirmed as Adam Wingard
The American adaptation to the big screen of manga serial "Death Note" just got its director. Adam Wingard, known for movies such as "The Guest" and "You're Next," has signed on as the film's director. Previously rumored directors include Shane Black and Gus Van Sant.
"Death Note" according to a report in Cinema Blend, is one of two manga adaptations for the big screen, the other one being "Akira." While Akira is experiencing its own set of problems, "Death Note" is said to be faring better because of this recent piece of news.
Wingard's experience in horror flicks is said to bode well for the upcoming film, given the manga series' "dark sensibilities." The story follows a high school student, Light, who discovers a book that can be used to kill anyone using any means. Instead of using the book for evil, he instead uses it to rid the world of evil, one death at a time. His actions however do not go unnoticed, as a police detective is keeping track of him and his antics.
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The most recent draft of the screenplay was penned by Jeremy Slater, whose most recent project was the "Fantastic Four" reboot. It is not yet known if Wingard will make use of this script or if he will enlist another writer, who have previously worked with him in his horror flicks.
Wingard takes the place of Shane Black, who was expected to direct the film but had backed out because of other projects. Gus Van Sant was rumored to be in the running but was never confirmed.
The movie has yet to get a release date as well as a cast.
The original "Death Note" serial ran from 2003 to 2006, with over 25 million copies sold worldwide. It has resulted in several spinoffs, including a TV series, live-action movies in Japan and video games, according to a report in IGN.
