Top 11 most anticipated live-action films of 2017

Fullmetal Alchemist, also known as 'The Alchemist' in the Vietnamese manga version, is a manga series written and illustrated by Arakawa Hiromu. The world of Fullmetal Alchemist is set in a European-inspired, industrial revolution era. The story unfolds in a fictional universe where alchemy is one of the most advanced scientific techniques known to humanity. The plot follows two brothers, Edward and Alphonse Elric, who seek to restore their bodies after a catastrophic attempt to bring their beloved mother back to life through alchemy. The series has been highly successful, inspiring an anime, light novels, and video games. This year, the manga is being adapted into a live-action film once again. Yamada Ryosuke, the actor and singer, plays the lead role of Edward Elric. Fans are excited but also anxious, wondering whether it will live up to the original. However, the filming location in Italy and the impressive teaser trailer have reassured viewers somewhat.

Kyo no Kira-kun is set to premiere on February 25, 2017. Information about the film was released well in advance. The male lead, Yuiji Kira, a lively high school student with only one year left to live, is played by Taishi Nakagawa. The female lead, Ninon Okamura, a mysterious girl who always carries a pet parrot on her shoulder, is portrayed by Marie Iitoyo. The two live next door but have never spoken until Ninon learns that Kira has only a year to live and hears him say he doesn't want to die alone. She promises to stay by his side until his passing. Initially, the film received mixed reviews, with some fans intrigued while others were skeptical. However, the trailer, featuring beautiful actors and a romantic kiss scene behind a curtain, captivated the audience. Will the film be as successful as the original work by Rin Mikimoto? Only time will tell.

There's no doubt that Gintama is the blockbuster live-action film of the upcoming year. Gintama, a beloved manga series, has been serialized since 2003 in Shounen Jump. Set in a fictional version of 19th-century Edo, the story takes place after Earth is invaded by extraterrestrials collectively known as Amanto. The plot follows the daily life of the free-spirited samurai, Sakata Gintoki, and his two companions, Shimura Shinpachi and Kagura. The production team has made a smart choice in casting the famous actor Oguri Shun, who has won over audiences with numerous live-action roles such as in Hana Yori Dango and Hana Kimi. Joining him are a star-studded cast, including the once-in-a-lifetime idol Kanna Hashimoto and the versatile actor Suda Masaki, portraying Gintoki's companions. Other notable actors include Masami Nagasawa, Masaki Okada, Yagira Yuya, and Yoshizawa Ryo. With a talented cast and an already great source material, will the film meet the high expectations of original fans? We'll find out in summer 2017.

After rumors circulated early in 2016, the official confirmation for the live-action adaptation of Hyoka finally came. The film, set for release in 2017, stars Kento Yamazaki and Alice Hirose in key roles. The protagonist, Hotaro Oreki, a first-year high school student, joins the Literature Club at the suggestion of his older sister. There, Hotaro meets Eru Chitanda, and together they discover a 33-year-old anthology of 'Hyoka.' The two begin to unravel mysteries connected to the anthology, their school, and the school festival. The film is based on the 2001 novel by Honobu Yonezawa.

Teiichi no Kuni, based on the manga of the same name by Usamaru Furuya, serialized in Jump Square, ended in June 2016. The film tells the story of students vying for power in a high school to attain the prestigious role of student council president, a position offering many privileges and future political opportunities. What stands out most is the young, rising cast full of talent: Masaki Suda, Shuhei Nomura, Ryoma Takeuchi, Mei Nagano, and more. While the plot remains to be seen, the film is already likely to garner a massive following from the actors' fans. The movie is scheduled for release on April 29, 2017.

Next up on the list is another film featuring the 'Prince of Live-Action,' Kento Yamazaki. The story follows a girl named Kaori Fujimiya, who forgets all her friends every Monday. As a result, Kaori keeps to herself and avoids getting close to anyone. However, her classmate Yuki Hase is determined to befriend her. The female lead is played by Haruna Kawaguchi. The film is based on the manga by Matcha Hazuki, serialized from 2012 to 2015. Scheduled for release on February 18, 2017, this is one of the most anticipated shoujo live-action films of the year.

P to JK tells the amusing and heartwarming story of a police officer, Kota Sagano, and a high school girl, Kako Motoya. Adapted from the manga by Maki Miyoshi, which was serialized from 2012 in the shoujo magazine Bessatsu Friend, the film stars Kazuya Kamenashi, a member of the KAT-TUN music group, as Kota, and Tao Tsuchiya as the lovable Kako. The trailer, filled with both humorous and romantic moments, has fans eagerly awaiting its release on March 25, 2017. Both manga lovers and fans of the cast can't wait to see this charming love story unfold on the big screen.

Hirunaka no Ryuusei, adapted from the manga by Mika Yamamori, is a highly anticipated film starring Miura Shohei and Mei Nagano, two rising stars from 2016. Miura Shohei, known for his supporting roles in dramas like Dame na Watashi ni Koishite Kudasai and Sukina Hito ga Iru Koto, steps into the lead role as the teacher Satsuki Shishio. Mei Nagano, praised for her natural acting and charming looks in Koe Koi and Ore Monogatari!!, plays the female lead. Alongside them is Aran Shirahama, a newcomer taking on the role of Daiki Mamura, the supporting male lead. The story explores the complicated relationship between a teacher and his student, and fans will find out what happens when the film is released on March 24, 2017.

JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, starring the popular young actor Kento Yamazaki, is based on Hirohiko Araki's manga series Jojo no Kimyona Boken Part 4: Daiyamondo wa Kudakenai, which was serialized in Shounen Jump from 1992 to 1995. The story follows Josuke Higashikata, the illegitimate son of Joseph Joestar, who possesses a supernatural ability called Crazy Diamond. This power allows him to heal injuries or repair broken objects and living beings. Josuke, along with his friends, takes on others with unique abilities in an action-packed adventure. The casting announcement caused a stir, with a young and talented ensemble, including Kento Yamazaki, Kamiki Ryunosuke, Nana Komatsu, and Mackenyu, as well as veteran actors like Okada Masaki and Takayuki Yamada. The film is set to be released in the summer of 2017.

San gatsu no Lion, adapted from Chika Umino's manga first published on July 13, 2007, in Young Animal, tells the story of a 17-year-old boy who is a professional Shogi player but struggles with everyday life. The narrative follows his journey through triumphs and setbacks, and his personal growth. After being adapted into an anime, this live-action film stars the talented young actor Kamiki Ryunosuke in the lead role. With a strong and popular cast, the film has already garnered significant anticipation from fans of the original manga. The release is highly awaited by those eager to see this poignant tale unfold on the big screen.

Peach Girl, adapted from the romantic school manga by Miwa Ueda, was serialized in Bessatsu Friend from 1997 to 2004. The story centers on a high school girl with a tough exterior who is actually very innocent. She finds herself caught in a love triangle between her classmate Toji and the most popular boy at school, Kairi Okayasu. The film stars the beautiful Mizuki Yamamoto, Kei Inoo from the famous boy band Hey! Say! Jump!, and Mackenyu, who gained attention in 2016 for his role in Chihayafuru. Mei Nagano plays the female antagonist. The movie is set for release on May 20, 2017, and has sparked much discussion about which of the two handsome boys the heroine will choose.