VIZ Sets Up Subsidiary for Live-Action Features

SAN FRANCISCO, July 22: VIZ Media has launched a new division that will
produce and license live-action theatrical film and TV projects based on anime
and manga (graphic novel) series.

VIZ Productions will draw
on the library of manga properties owned by its Japanese parent companies,
Shogakukan and Shueisha, as well as publishing giant Hakusensha. The division
will serve as a connection between Japanese rights owners and Hollywood
producers and agents. Projects will cover a range of genres, including science
fiction, fantasy, action adventure, horror, thriller, comedy and drama.

“VIZ Productions will give
Hollywood a unique conduit to some of the most innovative and unique
entertainment properties from Japan,” said Jason Hoffs, who has been tapped as
the head of production at VIZ Productions. “Hollywood has always looked to
comic books and graphic novels and has recently discovered the untapped pool of
Japanese manga for development into live-action features. Worldwide, the creators of manga are viewed as
artists, and the rich story lines are already a hit with the coveted 12-34
demographic. With our pool of resources of dramatic story lines and incredible
characters coming from manga and animation, we are confident that the
development of many new projects will attract the best talent, actors,
directors, writers and bring a new array of films to domestic audiences.”

—By Mansha Daswani