The Human Vapor Remake of Sci-Fi Classic Coming From Train to Busan Filmmaker

The Human Vapor Remake of Sci-Fi Classic Coming From Train to Busan Filmmaker

As a seasoned gamer and avid fan of sci-fi cinema, I must say I am absolutely thrilled about the upcoming Netflix and Toho collaboration for The Human Vapor remake! With the mastermind behind Train to Busan, Yeon Sang-ho, at the helm, I can’t help but feel that this will be an unforgettable ride.


As a gaming enthusiast, I’m buzzing with excitement! Netflix and Toho Studios are joining forces to reimagine the iconic sci-fi masterpiece, “The Human Vapor.” Guess who’s on board? None other than Yeon Sang-ho, the genius mind behind the hit zombie thriller, “Train to Busan!” Can’t wait to see what he brings to this classic tale!

In 1960, the groundbreaking sci-fi film directed by Ishirō Honda, who’s known for Godzilla, was highly acclaimed. Now, the remake is planning to present The Human Vapor in a fresh light as a contemporary Japanese live-action series.

Noteworthy is the fact that this marks the first comprehensive partnership between Netflix and Toho Studios. This follows closely after Netflix acquiring streaming rights for the acclaimed Godzilla: Minus One.

In collaboration, Korean filmmaker Yeon Sang-ho (known for Train to Busan, Hellbound, and Parasyte: The Grey) and Japanese director Shinzo Katayama (Missing, Siblings of the Cape, Gannibal) are coming together to co-create a new project titled Human Vapor. Yeon Sang-ho will assume the roles of executive producer and co-writer, while Katayama takes the helm as the series’ director. The star-studded cast includes Shun Oguri (Godzilla vs. Kong) and Yu Aoi (Wife of a Spy).

What is The Human Vapor about?

In the tale “The Human Vapor,” an unfortunate librarian undergoes a faulty scientific procedure that metamorphoses him into ‘The Human Vapor.’ Utilizing his unique powers, he resorts to bank robberies as a means to finance his girlfriend’s burgeoning dancing career. The Human Vapor exhibits no mercy in his pursuit of wealth and eliminates anyone who dares oppose him, particularly the police. He swiftly ascends the ranks to become Tokyo’s most elusive criminal. Can anyone manage to halt his murderous spree before more lives are claimed?

The original movie was the third installment in Toho’s Transforming Human Series, and Yeon selected this particular one to remake due to its enduringly impressive sci-fi elements: “Although it was made in 1960, the way it portrays science fiction is incredibly skillful. I felt that if updated with contemporary visual effects, it would be nothing short of captivating.”

Newcomer Shinzo Katayama initially found himself unfamiliar with the initial movie, yet he swiftly recognized the charm of a contemporary reinterpretation.

“I hadn’t watched The Human Vapor until now, but after seeing it, I found myself captivated by its unique blend of human emotions and romantic themes. Despite the character being a bizarre entity known as the Human Vapor, I recognized the opportunity to update this timeless special effects production with cutting-edge visual effects (VFX) and computer graphics (CG). By integrating more relatable human drama, I believe it could become an exceptionally engaging piece of work.”

The duo hasn’t revealed an exact launch date as of now, but we know for sure that it won’t be anytime soon, with estimates pointing towards at least a year from now. Additionally, they’ve secured unique authorization to film in specific Japanese sites that typically don’t grant access for shooting purposes.

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2024-08-08 13:10