By Kofi Outlaw

David Bowers, whose animated film résumé includes classic fare such as WHO FRAMED ROGER RABBIT, and more recent CGI fare such as rats-in-the-toilet flick FLUSHED AWAY, has been tapped to helm the CG-animated adaptation of Japense Manga and 60’s cartoon hero ASTRO BOY.

Bowers replaces Colin Brady, who was previously in charge of the $50 million project, which is being produced by Imagi Studios, the company behind the TMNT re-dud last year. The studio hopes to have the film completed for a 2009 release.

The concept art for the film suggests that ASTRO BOY will adhere pretty closely to the storyline and character models from the original comic book, first created by manga legend Osamu Tezuka.

While the concept art looks cool, is ASTRO BOY a character kids today have even heard of? Can the cosmic wonder stage a comeback? Rant back and let us know your call on this one.