Creating live-action anime adaptations is always a challenge to writers and directors, especially when staying true to the story in honor of the mangakas and the fans who loved them. Who can forget the horror that the movie “Dragonball Evolution” induced in many fans?
In the past years though, Netflix took it upon themselves to prove that making a successful adaptation is possible. Here are some live-action anime adaptations on Netflix that will blow your socks off.
1. Death Note (2017)
“Death Note” is Tsugumi Ohba’s masterpiece that follows Light Yagami, a genius high school student who found a mysterious death note owned by Shinigami, Ryuk. The anime was a major hit because its complex philosophical and moral dilemmas are interesting and thrilling.
In the live-action version, the real challenge is in the recreation of Ryuk and other shinigami in the show. While producers spent so much time on the animation and succeeded, the story was disappointing, with Ryuk’s blurry insights and Light’s anticlimactic personality.
2. Fullmetal Alchemist Trilogy (2017 & 2022)
“Fullmetal Alchemist” was created as a trilogy, including the movies “Fullmetal Alchemist,” “The Revenge Of Scar,” and “The Final Alchemy”. The first movie was released in 2017, while the last two were released in 2022.
The animation was top-notch, with alchemy effects that can remind you of the original anime source. The issue with the first movie is that it feels rushed. The CGI and visual effects may be a bit subpar for the last two movies but being loyal to the storyline is a major plus point for fans of the anime.
3. Bleach (2018)
“Bleach” is a long-running anime series with 366 episodes in which the show takes pride. The Netflix movie shows the anime’s initial arc to give justice to the story. Generally, fans loved the movie adaptation so much that many suggested recreating the story next time as a TV series instead.
4. Alice in Borderland (2020)
“Alice in Borderland” is a popular anime miniseries with a solid manga foundation that fans adored. Netflix focused more on the detailed narrative of the manga and got a bit of creative freedom to spruce up the show without affecting the plot. It has two seasons, and many are singing praises about this adaptation.
5. Cowboy Bebop (2021)
A classic favorite, “Cowboy Bebop” is a well-loved anime from the 90’s. Netflix’s version was anticipated by loyal fans. There were high hopes before its release but all ended when the show was canceled only after 10 episodes.
6. The Ingenuity Of The Househusband (2021)
If you’re looking for a lighthearted comedy show, “The Ingenuity Of The Househusband” is a good consideration. The short series follows the story of Tatsu, an ex-Yakuza who turned his back on his old ways and decided to be a househusband. The role of Tatsu was played by Kenjiro Tsuda, who also voiced the character in the anime. The choice of actor made the adaptation closer to the well-loved anime version.
7. From Me To You: Kimi Ni Todoke (2023)
The romantic anime “Kimi Ni Todoke” will make your heart skip a beat. The love story of Kazehaya and Sawako takes you back to the nostalgia of your first love.
Netflix’s version of this wonderful anime is equally adorable, with actors spot on when acting their characters. The adaptation was also true to the story’s plot, which is a good decision considering the anime’s high popularity.
8. Rurouni Kenshin – The Beginning & The Final (2021)
“Rurouni Kenshin – The Beginning” and “Rurouni Kenshi – The Final” were released in 2021. These movies were focused on Kenshin Himura’s life as the Battousai in the first film and his battle with Enishi, his ex-wife’s brother, in the second. Many fans loved the movies for their outstanding fighting scenes. Both also stayed true to the plots of the arcs that satisfied fans.
9. One Piece (2023)
The legendary “One Piece” has a massive storyline that spans over 20 years and continues until now since 1999. With a large fanbase to please and unique characters to give life to, Netflix gave itself a real hurdle to jump.
The good thing about Netflix’s “One Piece” is that despite the huge shoes to fill, it appeased the thirst of fans by staying true to the story and hiring amazing actors for the series. As of now, people are waiting for the second season.
10. Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead (2023)
Netflix also worked on the post-apocalyptic anime series “Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead.” The entire premise of the series is interesting as the story focuses on a positive hero trying to live his life to the fullest before he turns into a zombie. The anime version was significantly more hilarious, but at least the platform tried.
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MSN Writer, Radical FIRE
Expertise: Entertainment, Travel, Interior Design, and Personal Improvement Niches
Education: Bachelor of Science in Tourism, Major in Development Tourism Management at Ateneo de Naga University
Experience: Marisa Bolivar is a content writer with 10 years of experience in creating blogs and articles across different industries on the web. She has explored many niches in her years working as a content specialist with her favorite zeroing on entertainment, from books to movies and TV shows. Marisa is also a bookworm, who has a fondness for personal improvement and philosophical authors like Paulo Coelho and Mitch Albom.