A variety of names are being bandied about for the cast of the live action Akira (see “Akira Gets Green Light”), from Gerrett Hedlund, who’s in talks to play Kaneda, according to Variety; to Keira Knightley, who’s been “approached,” according to Hollywood Reporter.  Also in early stages (actors “asked”), are Gary Oldman as Colonel and Helena Bonham-Carter as Lady Miyako, according to Twitch.

The film will be based on the popular Kodansha manga.