In one of Matt's recent blogs, I made mention that I've heard rumors a live-action Akira is in the works, and that Leonardo Decaprio is starring in it as Kaneda. I didn't think this was exclusive information, but I quickly received many a shocked and horrified response from you, my fellow users, asking me if it was some sick joke or if Hollywood is actually going through with this.

Well, my friends, below I've pasted an excerpt from the wikipedia page about Akira. This was on the page regarding the manga itself, simply a subnote at the bottom of the page, but here you have it:

[edit] Live action film

Akira is expected to be developed into two live action films with the first scheduled for a summer 2009 release. The film will be set in New Manhattan - a decision which has drawn severe criticism from die-hard Akira fans.^[4][5][6] Warner Bros. and Appian Way will adapt the two movies from the manga. The first film is expected to be an adaptation of the first three volumes. The second film may cover the last three volumes. Ruairi Robinson is directing in his feature film debut. He was nominated for a short film Oscar in 2002 for Fifty Percent Grey. Gary Whitta is writing the script. Andrew Lazar, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Jennifer Davisson will produce the film. The film is set in New Manhattan, a city rebuilt by Japanese money after being destroyed 31 years ago. No announcement has been made regarding the cast, although it is reported that DiCaprio and Joseph Gordon-Levitt will be playing the lead roles of Kaneda and Tetsuo, respectively.^[7]

Read it and weep, my friends. Not only is it true, but they're already planning a SEQUEL. As horrified as I am to see pretty-boy Dicaprio placed as Kaneda, and the same piss-poor choice for Venom now chosen to play the legendary Tetsuo, I will reserve judgement until I've seen some previews. I'm always willing to give people the benefit of the doubt... who knows, maybe they'll surprise us all. After all, it will be pretty hard to take a character like Tetsuo and make him suck. As for Akira himself, let's face it: The kid was mute and emotionless. ANYONE could play him. All they have to do is stand there, everything else would be handled by special effects. Here's hoping they don't fuck it up.

EDIT: This was a reply to one of Kitty's comments but I decided it was worthy to be attached to the blog itself.