Amazon MGM Studios plans to develop a live-action adaptation of FernGully: The Last Rainforest. The project revisits a film released more than three decades ago that focused on environmental themes within a fantasy setting.
Jon Feinberg, a producer for the live-action film, explained, “Our goal isn’t simply to make a new film. It’s to honor a timeless classic and extend its powerful themes and musical legacy across every platform.”
Background of the Original Film
The original FernGully: The Last Rainforest premiered in 1992 and is set in an Australian rainforest. It follows Crysta, a fairy who accidentally shrinks a human logger named Zak, bringing him into her world. As Zak learns about the damage caused by logging, they work together to stop Hexxus, a destructive force linked to pollution and industrial activity, from harming the forest.
An image from Fern Gully – 20th Century Fox
The animated film featured voice performances from Robin Williams and Tim Curry. Alan Silvestri composed the score. The film later received a direct-to-video sequel released in 1998.
Production Team
The project is led creatively by Marielle Heller, who is attached to write and direct. Heller is known for directing films such as A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood. She has also worked in producing roles through her company Defiant By Nature.
Multiple producers are attached to the project across different production entities:
- Stacey Sher (Shiny Penny Productions)
- Jon Sheinberg (Sheinberg Feige Organization)
- Susan Ursitti-Sheinberg (Sheinberg Feige Organization)
- Matt Feige (Sheinberg Feige Organization)
- Leah Holzer (Defiant By Nature)
- Marielle Heller (Defiant By Nature)
Moonli Singha is also listed as an executive producer.
An image from Fern Gully – 20th Century Fox
Machine Media Advisors is involved in a rights and legacy capacity. Reports describe the company’s role as helping manage and extend the intellectual property across potential media formats.
Development History and Project Revival
Interest in revisiting FernGully: The Last Rainforest has circulated for several years, but no adaptation moved into active production until recently reported development activity in 2026. After the 1998 direct-to-video sequel, the property remained largely inactive in film production terms.
An image from Fern Gully – 20th Century Fox
The rights to the title changed hands or were optioned at different points, according to industry reporting. A more concrete development phase emerged in 2023, when new rights holders began exploring potential film and television projects based on the original concept. Those early efforts did not result in a confirmed studio production at that time.
The 2026 reports from Amazon MGM Studios represent the first widely reported move toward a structured live-action adaptation under a major studio banner. However, the project remains in early development, and key production milestones have not been announced.
Current Status and Industry Context
Amazon MGM Studios has not announced casting decisions or a release date. The project remains in early development. Additional details may emerge as production planning continues.
An image from Fern Gully – 20th Century Fox
The project reflects a broader trend in the film industry. Studios continue to revisit existing intellectual properties for new adaptations. Amazon MGM Studios has pursued similar strategies with other established titles.
The original FernGully film received generally positive reviews upon release and maintained a following over time. Its environmental themes remain a central part of its legacy.
Are you excited for the upcoming Fern Gully live-action? Let us know your thoughts int he comments below.
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I bet they make the Fairy a Trănny………
More demonisation of Whites, no doubt.
The first movie was already hippie propaganda back then. This one will be much much worse.