In making the announcement, Fellman stated, “We have been excited about ‘Speed Racer ’ since we first announced the project. We see it as a movie with broad-based, worldwide appeal —from adults to teens to families —making it the perfect film to lead off our exciting 2008 Summer slate. We want to give ‘Speed Racer ’ the maximum playability throughout the season, so moving it up to the earliest possible date made the most sense. ”

Kwan-Rubinek added, “Opening ‘Speed Racer ’ day-and-date with the U.S. in most international markets will not only allow audiences to see the film early but will maximize business before the start of the European Soccer Championships. ”

“Speed Racer ” is being written and directed by Larry and Andy Wachowski, marking the brothers ’ first writing/directing collaboration since their groundbreaking “Matrix ” movies. The film is being produced by Joel Silver under his Silver Pictures banner.

Based on the classic series created by anime pioneer Tatsuo Yoshida, the big-screen “Speed Racer ” will follow the adventures of the young race car driver Speed in his quest for glory in his thundering Mach 5.

“Speed Racer ” is a Warner Bros. Pictures presentation, in association with Village Roadshow Pictures, of a Silver Pictures Production.