5 Best Live-Action Anime Adaptations Not From Hollywood
Anime and manga have long been sources of inspiration for cinema, but Hollywood hasn't always successfully captured their essence. Thankfully, Japanese cinema, with its deep roots in anime and manga, has stepped up to the plate and brought several adaptations to life with a nuance that resonates with fans of the original works.
Here are the top five live-action anime adaptations not from Hollywood:
Attack On Titan (2015)
- Director: Shinji Higuchi
- Synopsis: Although it presented an alternate narrative to the original, it splendidly captured the world of the Titans and humanity's struggle against them. The production retained the gory essence of the series, making it a visual spectacle despite specific contentious changes to the storyline.
Grand Blue (2020)
- Director: Tsutomu Hanabusa
- Synopsis: A hilarious adaptation of the slice-of-life manga about Iori Kitahara's escapades in a diving club. It condenses the narrative but retains the light-heartedness and comedic spirit that made the original so beloved.
Ace Attorney (2012)
- Director: Takashi Miike
- Synopsis: Drawing inspiration from both the game and the anime, this courtroom drama maintains the quirky aesthetics and story arcs that make Phoenix Wright's adventures endearing. The film encapsulates the charm of the original with its distinct character designs and dramatic flair.
Jojo's Bizarre Adventure: Diamond Is Unbreakable Chapter I (2017)
- Director: Takashi Miike
- Synopsis: An audacious adaptation of one of the most iconic arcs from Jojo's Bizarre Adventure series, it expertly showcases the supernatural stand powers of the Joestar lineage. Despite its bewildering pacing for newcomers, it's a genuine treat for fans of the original work.
Blade Of The Immortal (2017)
- Director: Takashi Miike
- Synopsis: A riveting tale of a cursed samurai, Manji, who embarks on a mission of redemption. The film smartly tweaks the story to make it more fitting for the cinematic format. With enthralling sword fights and a gripping storyline, it is an excellent introduction to the world of samurai cinema.
From sprawling fantasy worlds to more grounded tales of everyday life, these films showcase the vast potential that anime and manga adaptations hold when approached with care, respect, and creativity.