Watching live-action adaptations of anime shows you’ve already seen is an incredibly enjoyable and unparalleled experience. Though the original manga and anime will always hold a special place, the current trend of live-action series is impressing with their remarkable cinematography and faithful portrayals.
Even for the most dedicated anime fans, it can be surprising to learn about the numerous live action adaptations of their favorite anime series. Without any delay, here is a list of the top 10 anime that have been adapted into live action dramas, which you may not have known about.
10 Wotakoi: Love Is Hard for Otaku
The tale of two socially awkward otakus navigating the intricacies of their relationship resonates with every anime enthusiast. Wotakoi anime captured the hearts of viewers with its unique portrayal of love and growing up. However, the live action adaptation remains relatively unknown among many.
In 2020, the film ‘Wotakoi: Love is Hard for an Otaku’ was directed by Yuichi Fukuda and remained faithful to the original plot and characters while adding its own unique elements. It is a great choice for those looking for an entertaining viewing experience.
Black Butler
Despite being a middle school guilty pleasure for many fans, the Black Butler anime remains beloved by viewers. The iconic characters of Sebastian and Ciel continue to hold a special place in people’s hearts, even years after the show’s initial release. Currently, the anime has three fantastic seasons, with the fourth season concluding its airing in 2024.
The 2014 live action film of Black Butler was directed by Kentarō Ōhtani and Keiichi Satō and stars Hiro Mizushima and Ayane Goriki. It is based on the original story and features a replacement of Ciel Phantomhive with the character of Earl Kiyohara.
8. Popular Anime Series: Tokyo Ghoul
It is undeniable that the series created by Sui Ishida is a work of art. Although the same cannot be said for the anime adaptation, it was still a pleasant viewing experience. While the Tokyo Ghoul anime is well-known, only a handful of devoted fans are aware of its live-action counterpart.
The two Tokyo Ghoul films, Tokyo Ghoul (2017) and Tokyo Ghoul S, both follow the same storyline as the original and cover up to the Gourmet Arc. The acting and visuals in both films successfully lived up to the expectations and hype of fans, doing justice to the source material.
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Another series that should be on your weekend watch list is the live-action drama starring Jin Suzuki and Sanari. With Kōichirō Miki as the director, this 6 episode mini series delves into the struggles and romance of the members of a rock band.
Fans of Natsuki Kizu’s original work and BL drama enthusiasts will surely appreciate this drama. The cinematography stays true to its realistic style without any embellishments, and the actors deliver spot-on performances. This live-action adaptation perfectly captures the same emotions that the original is beloved for.
6. Removing Stains with Bleach
As one of the Shonen’s big three, Bleach has consistently lived up to its hype. Whether in manga or anime form, the series continues to captivate fans’ hearts, with its recent resurgence in 2022 proving its enduring popularity.
Despite the immense popularity of anime, few may know of its live action film, which was produced by Warner Bros. This big budget fantasy adapted the Soul Reaper Agent Arc from the series, with slight changes to better fit the film’s narrative. However, these changes are not significant enough for fans to be worried about. And unlike many other live action adaptations, Bleach has generally been well received.
Kenshin
Rurouni Kenshin, a story about a swordsman during the Meiji Era, is well-known among long-time anime enthusiasts. The series has recently sparked excitement as it is set to return for its second anime adaptation in 2023, following its original run in 1998. The show centers around a wandering swordsman who protects others and seeks redemption for the past atrocities he had committed.
The popular Warner Bros. Pictures Japan produced the Rurouni Kenshin live action films, which were directed by Keishi Otomo. The first film was released in 2012 and the final installment was released in 2021.
Fullmetal Alchemist
Fullmetal Alchemist, hailed as the pinnacle of anime, continues to captivate our hearts and minds with its iconic characters and unforgettable plot. The series has been adapted into numerous anime and film versions, including a three-part live action movie that encompasses the entire story.
The live action adaptation, helmed by Fumihiko Sori, is an exceptional viewing experience that remains true to the series’s authenticity while also incorporating its own unique elements. The film also boasts notable actors such as Ryosuke Yamada, Dean Fujioka, and Mackenyu Maeda.
Parasyte
The story centers around Shinichi Izumi, who is now living with a parasitic arm after a failed attack on his brain by a parasite. This concept is based on the original work of Hitoshi Iwaaki.
Takashi Yamazaki directed two live action films of Parasyte, which adapt the entire original storyline. The key roles are played by Shota Sometani, Eri Fukatsu, and Ai Hashimoto.
Assassination Classroom
Despite being highly underrated and not well-known, Assassination Classroom is a must-watch live action film that is currently available. Directed by Eiichirō Hadumi, the 2015 science-fiction action film also has a sequel titled Assassination Classroom: Graduation, which was released in 2016.
The two live action films stayed true to the essence of the original work, with minor variations that are common in live action adaptations. The characters and key moments remained unchanged, making this an enjoyable watch for fans of Assassination Classroom.
1. The Promised Neverland
Despite the continuous buzz surrounding The Promised Neverland manga and anime, its stunning live action film is often overlooked by fans. The film, directed by Yūichirō Hirakawa and Jun Shiozaki and produced by Fuji Television, stays true to the original storyline. It follows a group of children who discover the dark secrets of their orphanage and must plan a daring escape.
The 2021 live action film was a major success in Japan, receiving high praise from both fans of the original work and critics alike for its impressive cinematography and mesmerizing soundtracks.
Therefore, these are a few anime series that have been highly underrated in their live action adaptations. Do you have any other recommendations that fall into this category? If yes, then please share your thoughts in the comment section below.
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