but those are all big name franchises. And tomb raider with angelina jolie. This lost planet isn't that like the 1st year game of some 360 game. And I don't recall it doing huge number or anything.

Now making a 150-200 million for like a final fantasy, zelda, halo, or other big names like you posted above make sense. But then again someone said already that the final fantasy movie that cost around 150 almost put SE out of business so you never know.

and why i'm saying this is retarded move by whatever company is funding this.

I have nothing against the concept of a film based on Lost Planet, but they must have been driven mad by the global recession if they're really thinking of throwing that much money at it.

Never underestimate the public thirst for good popcorn flicks. Anyone recall movies such as Independence Day, Jurassic Park, Starship Troopers. Big budgets and good special effects can be a recipe for huge returns.

For those that highlight Spirits Within as a ill omen. I can answer that with one sentiment that is maddeningly difficult to kill off. Many in the West still view animation as the purview of children alone, or not intended for adult consumption. So the movie went ignored it wasn't directed at children, and older audiences couldn't move beyond the fact that it was animation.

The movie wasn't terribly good mind you. The writing particularly sucked, and the story was not all that original. However had it been live action it would have probably seen sales three or four times larger. Sometimes being the maverick comes at a price.