Imagi Studios hasn’t yet fully fired up the hype machine for its big-screen CGI take on Osamu Tezuka‘s Astro Boy, but the time isn’t far off — matter of fact, the computer-animated hero just got himself a voice.
According to a press release issued by the studio, Freddie Highmore (The Spiderwick Chronicles) has signed on to lend his pipes to the mechanical boy wonder in the upcoming production. Director David Bowers gushed about the 16-year-old actor:
“It’s terrific that Freddie has agreed to play Astro. He’s a remarkably skilled young actor, whose freshness and vitality make him perfect for the role. Astro Boy is a beloved superhero and has captured hearts around the globe for more than 50 years. I can’t wait to see where Freddie takes him.”
Set to be released in 2009, Astro Boy‘s synopsis follows below:
The original Astro Boy follows the adventures of a robot created in the image of a child but with extraordinary powers. Lost in a complex future world, Astro Boy must learn to find his place. With the help of his friends, he discovers how to use his powers for good.
