Speed Racer was/is a cult cartoon which started in the 1960s, and despite Japanese origins, became a hit animation around the world.

So, after 40 years, someone, somewhere, decided it would be a good idea to make a live action movie of the series, and luckily for us, the Wachowski Brothers were handed to assignment.

They are best known for The Matrix, and it looks like they have tried to continue their innovative methods of filming through to Speed Racer, as you can see from the high definition trailer above.

Most of the movie was actually filmed using green screen, and the animations, and computer generated images were added on in post production.

The film has a really unique look to it, which should please fans of the cartoon, as well as complete novices to the series. It’s due out in May 2008, and I for one, can’t wait.