Anime that should become live-action series (and anime that shouldn’t)
By Diana Nosa
As manga are turned into anime series, so are more and more anime series being turned into live-action movies or shows these days. This can be a real gift to anime fans. In addition to giving another perspective on the work, live-action adaptations of anime tend to emphasize complexities not initially noticed by audiences, which can make watching the original more gratifying.
Typically, adaptations are a gem prized by all. The 2019 film Detective Pikachu comes to mind when we think of fairly successful live adaptations, as does Netflix’s Kingdom. However, every so often, the anime community gets a live-action series that should have never have seen the light of day. Netflix’s reimagining of Death Note definitely fits this category.
With hundreds of anime series being released each year, some are bound to be transformed into live-action series. But which anime are perfect for adaptation? Which should not be touched under any circumstances? That’s what we’re here to puzzle out.
Anime that SHOULD receive live-action adaptations
Demon Slayer
Although it hasn’t been around as long as the top three anime giants — One Piece, Naruto and Bleach — Demon Slayer is well on its way to becoming one of the best anime series ever.
The 2020 Demon Slayer film Mugen Train surpassed Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away as the highest-grossing animated title of all time, and there are rumors of a live-action series already on the way. But if producers are hesitant, we’re hoping that our outcry lets them know that a live-action adaptation would be nothing less than a smash hit.
The anime is action-packed, teaches valuable lessons, and knows exactly how to tug at the heartstrings. It’s perfect for all audiences, no matter their age or walk of life. And it’s super-hilarious.
There are no disadvantages to making a Demon Slayer live-action series, which is why we’re crossing our fingers that all the rumors prove to be true.
Ranking of Kings
Ranking of Kings is a coming-of-age anime that is incredibly heartfelt and inspiring.
This anime follows the life of a young boy named Bojji who is mute and deaf. To others, Bojji isn’t fit to be the next king, both because of his disability but also because he appears to be too much of a pushover. On many occasions he’s walked the streets in his underwear after thieves strip him of everything he had. He simply doesn’t seem to know how to properly fend for himself. “If he can’t even protect himself,” the village people think, “Why should we trust him to protect us?” But little do they know that, below the surface, Bojii is one of the mightiest warriors in all the land.
Not only would a live-action adaptation clue in audiences all over the world that this riveting anime exists, but it would also reaffirm the importance of never judging a book by its cover. After all, it is often those who appear to be the weakest amongst us who have the greatest strength. With the help of a live-action series, audiences will be transformed by the many lessons Ranking of Kings teaches.