Here’s some exciting news from a press release for you Afro Samurai fans:

Samuel L. Jackson and Gonzo studios to produce a new live action film based on the popular “Afro Samurai” animated series that has spawned an impressive franchise and a global following.

Jackson was more than elated saying…”This has been one of my very favorite properties ever since our amazing debut at Comic Con with the original series pilot out of Japan. I can’t wait to produce the epic feature film version with our new partners at The Indomina Group.”

For those whom aren’t familiar, Afro Samurai is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by manga artist Takashi Okazaki and inspired by his love of soul, hip hop music and American media. Afro Samurai follows the life of Afro Samurai who witnessed his father (owner of the No. 1 headband) being killed by the hands of a gunslinger named Justice (owner of the No. 2 headband) while he was a child. As an adult, Afro sets off to avenge his father’s death and kill Justice.

It was adapted into a 5-episode anime TV series that later spawned the made-for-tv movie sequel, Afro Samurai: Resurrection in 2009. A video game and two successful soundtracks produced by RZA were also developed.

Producers plan to attach a writer and director this summer and complete casting by the end of the year. The film will be shot at Pinewood Indomina Studios in the Dominican Republic in 2012.