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While many believe anime-to-live-action transitions often falter, exceptions defy expectations.
The realm of famous anime has seen numerous acclaimed live-action adaptations in recent years.
Achieving a balance between preserving the original essence and translating it to reality poses a significant challenge.
10. Pokémon Detective Pikachu (2019)
Adapted from the 2016 video game of the same name, Pokémon Detective Pikachu features a star-studded Hollywood cast, including Ryan Reynolds, Suki Waterhouse, and Ken Watanabe.
The story revolves around two young women, Nana Osaki and Nana Komatsu, who move to Tokyo to pursue their dreams. Osaki seeks fame while Komatsu seeks love. A chance encounter on a train leads to a series of heartwarming and heartbreaking events that many audiences can empathize with.
7. One Piece (2023)
Netflix's adaptation of One Piece has been surrounded by speculation and anticipation since its initial announcement. Despite concerns that it wouldn't live up to Eiichiro Oda's shounen masterpiece, the series has been a resounding success, earning much praise.
Just like the manga and anime, the story follows the Straw Hat Pirates on their journey to find the legendary treasure, One Piece.
6. Blade of the Immortal (2017)
Hiroaki Samura's renowned seinen manga, Blade of the Immortal, ran from 1993 to 2012 and received an equally famous anime adaptation in 2008. Renowned director Takashi Miike brought the anime to life in a film adaptation, creating a masterpiece beloved by many.
Similar to anime and manga, the story revolves around Manji, a master swordsman cursed with immortality. In his quest to atone for his past and break the curse, Manji embarks on a mission to help a young girl named Rin seek revenge for her family's death.
5. Alita: Battle Angel (2019)
Hollywood has had limited success in producing live-action adaptations of anime, but Alita: Battle Angel stands out as a rare exception where the live-action surpasses the anime.
Based on Yukito Kishiro's manga Gunnm, Alita: Battle Angel is set in a dark future. In the film, we witness Dr. Ido stumble upon the broken body of a female cyborg. He repairs her and names her Alita, after his deceased daughter. The movie follows her journey as she explores this new world.
4. Speed Racer (2008)
The classic anime Speed Racer has been adapted for the big screen by the Wachowskis. Based on the comic of the same name by Tatsuo Yoshia, this action-packed sports comedy features an all-star Hollywood cast, including Emile Hirsch and Christina Ricci.
Similar to anime and manga, the storyline revolves around an 18-year-old talented 'speed racer' stepping into the risky world of car racing. Along the way, he uncovers a series of family secrets and the death of his older brother.
3. Inuyashiki (2018)
Adapted from the 2017 manga and anime of the same name by Hiroya Oku, this 2018 superhero film is highly acclaimed.
The story follows a middle-aged office worker living a dull and unsatisfying adult life. He has no friends, a wife who doesn't love him, and a family that doesn't appreciate him. However, everything changes when he is accidentally crushed by a spaceship from extraterrestrial beings and they turn him into a cyborg as an apology.
2. Alice in Borderland (2020)
The live-action TV series Alice in Borderland is one of the most notable exceptions to the rule that 'anime is always better.' It has paved the way for several other Netflix adaptations.
Adapted from the famous 2014 horror manga, the film is set in the desolate, ruined, and deserted capital city of Tokyo. Our main characters find themselves suddenly drawn into life-or-death games, where the only rule is to win or... die. With just 8 episodes, Alice In Borderland has shaken people awake with its series of life-and-death games in the heart of a desolate Tokyo.
1. Rurouni Kenshin (2012 - 2021)
Rurouni Kenshin is one of the most iconic samurai anime of all time. So, it's no surprise it has its own fantastic live-action adaptation.
These live-action adaptations include a total of five films released from 2012 to 2021, faithfully adapting most of Nobuhiro Watsuki's Rurouni Kenshin manga content in surprising detail.
