M. Night Shyamalan Allowed to Direct Another Film

Inconsistent filmmaker signs on to helm live-action version of Nickelodeon toon "The Last Airbender"

By Natalie Finn Apr 16, 2008 8:36 PMTags
M. Night ShyamalanSimon James/WireImage.com

Paramount Pictures and Nickelodeon Movies have greenlighted the upcoming live-action adventure The Last Airbender, to be directed by hit-or-miss master M. Night Shyamalan, who also penned the script.

The film, set in a world that is divided into the four nations of Earth, Water, Air and Fire (which is waging war against the other three), has already been given a July 2, 2010, release date.

"I was drawn to the series because of its influences, one being Hayao Miyazaki," Shyamalan said, referring to the acclaimed Japanese director of Princess Mononoke and Spirited Away.

"I've always been a huge fan of Miyazaki's work. He is one of the greatest storytellers in the world and makes anime films in Japan. His combination of spirituality and super natural elements have brought depth and meaning to his art form. In The Last Airbender, I see an opportunity to make a live-action version of a Miyazaki film."

Just so long as he doesn't make another version of Lady in the Water. (Interest will either be piqued or further deflated when Shyamalan's latest, the promisingly titled The Happening, hits theaters June 13.)