A live-action adaptation of Popeye the Sailor Man is now in development. Popeye originated as a cartoon strip in 1929. In the near-century since, the spinach-loving sailor has become one of the most beloved comic strip and animated characters. The sailor’s story was previously adapted in the 1980 Robin Williams led Popeye.

Per Variety, a new Popeye movie is now in development. The live-action Popeye the Sailor Man project is said to be a big-budget feature, and will be coined by Michael Caleo. The production currently has no studio or main cast attached, but its development is confirmed.

How Will This Popeye Movie Live Up To Previous Rendition of Popeye?

An image of Popeye holding a can of spinach on his bicep.

The Caleo-written Popeye will be the first live-action version of the sailor to hit the big screen in 44 years, as the Williams version was released in 1980. That film, made on a $20 million budget, grossed an impressive $60 million. Furthermore, it has gained cult classic status, especially among those who are fans of the beloved Williams. For these reasons, this newest Popeye story will have big shoes to fill when it comes to adapting the character.

Beyond the Williams Popeye movie, the sailor has gone through various iterations. Popeye the Sailor was also a short-form animated series that ran from 1960 to 1962. This series consisted of mini-episodes that were typically 6 minutes in length. These cartoons are an important part of the Popeye legacy.

An image of Popeye and friends against a white backdrop.

Although these versions put pressure on the new Popeye the Sailor Man to do a good job, their existence also makes it such that the new Popeye will have ample content from which to work. Perhaps the live-action Popeye can pull some of the most beloved segments from the cartoons into their feature-length film. More on Popeye will likely be revealed in the coming months as the Popeye the Sailor Man live-action film searches for a studio and talent.