From his original beginnings in Thimble Theaters strips in 1929, “Popeye the Sailorman” has been portrayed by Robin Williams in the 1980 version and is now coming to theaters once again thanks to Sony Pictures Animation.
“Popeye” will be released under the Sony and Columbia Company names on September 26, 2014.
Genndy Tartakovsky (creator of “Samurai Jack” and “Hotel Transylvania”) will be helming the project. Jay Scherick and David Ronn will pen the script.
“Popeye” will be shot in 3-D animated format.
The plot for “Popeye” is still under wraps, however, Olive Oyl, his nemesis Bluto and adopted baby, Swee’Pea will be a part of the new release.
Producer Avi Arad states the new version will cover themes of friendship, love, greed and life and will focus on the strength of human beings – plus their frailties.
The character, “Popeye,” was created by E. C. Segar and made his debut in the “Thimble Theater” comic strip in 1929. Popeye was introduced as a walk-on character, although he eventually became the star of the strip. The spinach-munching hero spawned the longest running series of animated shorts and is considered a gold mine in the merchandising market. There are Popeye toys, books, puzzles and games that still sell today.
Watch for “Popeye” in theaters on Friday, September 26, 2014 in 3-D.
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