Sunday, December 4, 2011

Samurai X : Rurouni Kenshin Live Action



In another case of rumor turned reality, it has been confirmed that Nobuhiro Watsuki's Rurouni Kenshin manga is being adapted into a live-action film, with Warner Brothers Pictures Japan producing. The cast features Takeru Sato (Kamen Rider Den-OBeck) in the lead, with Keishi Otomo (Ryomaden) directing the Studio Swan (Paradise Kiss) production.

Some words from Sato on the adaptation: "The role of Kenshin is that of a well-known character, therefore, I think fascinating acting is needed. I would like to create the Kenshin image with the staff, while staying true to the details."

And now, mangaka Watsuki on the casting: "When this project just started, my wife and I were talking about who would suit the role of Kenshin, and Sato Takeru-san was the one who came up on our mind first. So, when it was confirmed, I was surprised, but was also very happy. I'm looking forward to see his wonderful acting."

Even over a decade after it ended, Rurouni Kenshin remains popular all over the globe both as an anime and in its original manga format.  The story follows Himura Kenshin, a former government assassin who has sworn to never kill again, and the constant trials he has to face dealing with the new evils that spring up in a time of peace, and to make sure that all the blood he shed to create that peace doesn't go to waste.

After seeing a more somber, serious and realistic take on Rurouni Kenshin in 1999's Trust and BetrayalOAVs, the thought of a live-action movie is sounding better and better if it's handled right.  The latest reveal has shown off three new characters and their respective actors, who are almost definitely this film's main antagonists.

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Veteran TV actor Eguchi Yosuke (Tokyo Love StoryLunch no Joou) will portray popular sometimes-hero Saitou Hajime, former Shinsengumi Captain and current Tokyo police officer.

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Kikkawa Kouji (Kamen Rider W) will play damaged-goods assassin Udou Jine.  I'm looking forward to seeing how his memorable fight with Kenshin is portrayed.

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Kagawa Teruyuki (Toshiie to Matsu) gets to flex his despicably evil acting muscles as opium dealer and all-around dirtbag Takeda Kanryuu.

Here's a few comparisons for the rest of the cast, in case you were curious:

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Satou Takeru as Himura Kenshin

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Takei Emi as Kamiya Kaoru

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Aoki Munetaka as Sagara Sanosuke

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Taketo Tanaka (debut role) as Myoujin Yahiko

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Aoi Yuu as Takani Megumi

I'd say it's turning out pretty good, so far.  Sano's actor looks like he'd beat me down if I looked at him funny, and while Megumi's actor looks rather young, I'm sure a full kimono and good acting can change that impression.  What are your thoughts on this production?  Are there any other live-action anime adaptations you particularly liked or disliked?

With the live action adaptation of Ruruoni Kenshin set to starting filming, there aren't shots of the actors in costume yet, but set and prop photos have made it online.

via the Twitter account of Deputy director of Shonen Manga Group Hisashi Sasaki

Manga creator Nobuhiro Watsuki watching the Kamiya -Dojo.



Its exterior



And interior



Kenshin's Sakaba-sword and Sanosuke's Zanba-sword.



Kamen Rider Den-O's Takeru Satoh stars at the titular Bakumatsu political assassin turned Meiji era wanderer and non-lethal protector.  Keishi Otomo directs the project, scheduled for a 2012 release.

Was that sole image of Takeru Sato as Kenshin Himura not enough for you? The staff of the live-action Rurouni Kenshin adaptation just released more images from the film, which opens in Japan on August 25. Get your Kenshin fix below.









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