3/20/2014

Jon M. Chu to Direct Live-Action 'Jem and the Holograms'


Here's what we know about Jon M. Chu as a director: he's really good with song and dance films, such as Step Up 2 and the Justin Bieber concert docs; and G.I. Joe: Retaliation showed his love of '80s cartoon properties. So why not take on a film that rolls all of those passions into one?

In a surprising announcement, Chu revealed he will team up with Paranormal Activity producer Jason Blum to bring Jem and the Holograms to the big screen. It will be a live-action version of the cartoon which centered on Jerrica, a normal woman who, with the aid of a supercomputer known as Synergy, is able to transform into the mysterious lead singer, Jem. With her band, the Holograms, she battles rival bands such as The Misfits and The Stingers while keeping her identity a secret. It's a totally dated concept but kind of makes sense in today's American Idol culture.The original 'toon was a co-production of Hasbro and Marvel (!!!), and was branched off into toys and comics. Head to Comic-Con and you'll find no shortage of cosplayers dressed up as Jem and her loyal bandmates.

For the record, my wife is a Jem fanatic and will probably squeal with glee over this news.

An open casting call is underway with Chu encouraging everybody with some singing and dancing talent to throw their name into the ring. You can check out the full announcement, plus a refresher on Jem below.For more, just head on over to the film's rapidly-prepared official site.