From the second I got the press release, the theme song has been stuck in my head. “Here he comes, here comes Speed Racer…”
After exciting comic fans of a certain age with their reboot of Gatchaman, Mad Cave Studios reaches back a little further to a certain older age. Mach GoGoGo is getting the same treatment. Of course it’s going to be called Speed Racer. We all just like being snooty about its original Japanese title. Once again working with Tatsunoko Production, the publisher promises to combine the best of the original with a new vision.
As the press release puts it, “Speed Racer is more than just a racing series—it’s a story of family, perseverance, and innovation, all set against the backdrop of thrilling, high-stakes competition.” I’ll add in that this is the perfect time for a revival. It’s about all the things Mad Cave Studios describes, but also about being kind and noble.
Like Flash Gordon, Speed is just a man. The Mach 5 may be an incredible car, and its driver highly skilled, but he’s a regular guy. (With incredible hair.) His racing competitors often edge into super-villain territory, but that just makes it more fun.
“We’re honored to work alongside Tatsunoko Production to bring new Speed Racer stories to the fans,” said Mark Irwin, President of Mad Cave Studios. “This is a dream project for us, and we’re excited to explore the rich history and timeless appeal of these characters while delivering new stories that will thrill both nostalgic fans and those discovering the world of Speed Racer for the first time.”
Some of you might be more familiar with Speed Racer through the Wachowskis’ live-action film. That’s not a bad place to start. It’s faithful, and a lot better than its initial box office led people to believe. But it’s exciting to see what Mad Cave Studios has planned. So far no creative team has been announced. I’m just hoping there’s some small nod to Peter Fernandez, the voice actor and director who made Speed Racer such an indelible part of many childhoods.
