Takashi Yamazaki, the acclaimed director of 2023's Godzilla Minus One, is expanding his cinematic universe with a new giant robot movie titled Grandgear. Following the announcement of the English-language production in 2024, the film's first cast members have been revealed. Sam Nivola and Nico Parker are set to star, with Paul Giamatti in talks to join the project. Deadline reported the casting news.
Nivola is recognized for his role in "The White Lotus," while Parker recently starred in "Suncoast" and received a Breakthrough Performance Award at the Sundance Film Festival. Giamatti, a seasoned actor with numerous accolades including a Golden Globe Award and multiple Academy Award nominations, is also slated to appear in the upcoming film "The Debut."
Yamazaki, who helmed the writing, directing, and visual effects for the successful Godzilla Minus One, is taking on the same roles for Grandgear. The movie is being produced by J.J. Abrams' Bad Robot, with Sony Pictures acquiring the distribution rights. Though plot details remain scarce, a preview at CinemaCon 2026 showcased two colossal mechs engaged in combat, suggesting a film in the vein of "Pacific Rim."
Godzilla Minus Zero, the sequel to Yamazaki's monster hit, is scheduled for release on November 3, 2026, in Japan and November 6, 2026, in North America. Grandgear is slated for a February 2028 release.