10 Live-Action Anime Adaptations That Are Surprisingly Good

Live-action anime adaptations have famously built a poor rapport with fans over the years. They are usually plagued with numerous issues, ultimately serving as far inferior versions of the source material from which they are adapted. As a result, these projects are constantly faced with immense skepticism and are almost never well-received by their audiences.

Adapting anime into live-action is admittedly quite challenging because many series are adored for their grand premises and unique aesthetics, which are difficult to replicate outside of animation. Some productions, however, have managed to clear this bar with high levels of success. There are many ways to make an ambitious live-action endeavor thrive, and these productions serve as definitive proof.

Gintama (2017)

The 2017 Gintama live-action film was an adaptation faithful to the spirit of its source material. It featured the hilarious slapstick comedy and fourth wall-breaking that the series is so famous for, and captured the eccentric nature of its characters to perfection. It didn’t neglect the samurai action either, with engaging fight scenes enhanced by special effects.

It was the third highest-grossing domestic film of 2017 and was succeeded by the sequel Gintama 2: Rules are Made to be Broken, which was just as entertaining. The events of the film mainly cover the Benizakura Arc, as Gintoki and his crew tackle two seemingly unrelated tasks that end up being more connected than they thought.

Bleach (2018)

As one of the most popular shonen titles ever, with significant supernatural elements, capturing Bleach in live-action was always going to be a challenge. It proved to be one that the director, Shinsuke Sato, was up for, though, as his work on the 2018 Bleach film was given the seal of approval by many fans.

The movie adapted the Substitute Soul Reaper Arc of the story. It focused mainly on the relationship between Ichigo and Rukia, as well as the former’s confrontations with Byakuya and Renji. The department where it excelled the most was in its use of high-quality CGI and outstanding fight choreography, bringing the otherworldly battles to life in stellar fashion.

Ghost in the Shell (2017)

The 2017 Ghost in the Shell live-action film is one of the most visually stunning anime adaptations ever produced. Despite this, it is not free of criticism, as many fans believe the movie lacks the philosophical depth of the original. It has also been a topic of controversy with accusations of whitewashing surrounding the discourse on the movie.

Nonetheless, it boasts an undeniable quality, far surpassing the level of live-action anime adaptations fans are used to. It deeply immerses its audience into its futuristic cyberpunk atmosphere and recreates several iconic scenes from the 1995 film. Though it doesn’t perfectly capture the deep messaging of its source material, it is a thoroughly enjoyable watch.

Death Note (2006)

The Death Note film premiered a few months prior to its animated counterpart. It expertly showcases the intense battle of wits between the notebook-wielding Light Yagami and the brilliant detective L. Unlike the anime and manga, it takes a few creative liberties and features a unique ending largely welcomed by the fanbase.

One of the main highlights of the movie is Kenichi Matsuyama’s portrayal of L. He delivers a standout performance as he accurately mimics the peculiar behavioral patterns of the beloved antagonist. The project has become even more appreciated in retrospect, especially in light of the 2017 Death Note film and its devastatingly poor reception.

Kakegurui (2018)

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The Kakegurui live-action TV series aired in 2018, just one year after the anime. It also faithfully adapted the contents of the manga and featured an endearing cast that perfectly replicated the energy of the original characters. No effort was spared in reproducing the over-the-top mannerisms of key members and the luxurious atmosphere of the setting.

The series was followed by a sequel released in 2019, as well as movies featuring the same cast but original developments. Several years later, Netflix produced a loosely fitted adaptation titled Bet, which was enjoyed by many in the general public but difficult for fans of the original work to accept.

One Piece (2023)

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When the news broke out that a live-action One Piece TV series was in production, fans were understandably skeptical, however, it has proved so far to be a resounding success. It was produced under the judicious supervision of the creator, Eiichiro Oda, and the first season aired in 2023, renewed for a second season two weeks after its release.

The show has no problem manifesting the manga’s expansive world and diverse characters, with stunning special effects and a huge investment into general production design paying massive dividends. The main crew was also superbly cast, with their on-screen and off-screen chemistry clear for all to see, enriching the experience that much further.

Blade Of The Immortal (2017)

Blade of the Immortal is an immensely popular manga that received its live-action adaptation in 2017. The story follows the immortal samurai Manji, cursed by an eight-hundred-year-old nun using supernatural bloodworms to keep him alive forever. He is joined on his travels by the vengeful Rin, who seeks retribution against those who killed her parents.

The narrative focuses heavily on the bodyguard role Manji performs for Rin, as well as the evolution of their relationship over time. Its battle scenes are impressive, and it features extensive amounts of gore and wild action. The film was helmed by the storied director Takashi Miike, with legendary actor Takuya Kimura playing the role of Manji.

Alice in Borderland (2020)

The Alice in Borderland TV series was also directed by Shinsuke Sato and spanned three seasons, the last of which was not as lauded as the first two. The plot follows Ryouhei Arisu, who is transported to an alternate version of Tokyo and forced to participate in a series of high-stakes survival games.

The series features gripping psychological tension, fatal challenges represented by playing card suits, and engaging characters that will keep you glued to the screen. It is undoubtedly one of the most famous and successful live-action anime adaptations produced by Netflix. Unfortunately, the third season has been confirmed to be the last.

Rurouni Kenshin (2012)

The 2012 Rurouni Kenshin movie is the first in a line of five phenomenal films that collectively stand at the peak of domestic Japanese live-action adaptations. They flawlessly recreate the Meiji Era culture and landscape within which the film is set, and present remarkably choreographed swordplay rivaling the best of the best in the jidaigeki genre.

They faithfully portray the bulk of Kenshin’s journey as shown in the anime and manga, while also bringing to life beloved allies and formidable antagonists in the most authentic way possible. It is a comprehensive experience that is bound to evoke a wide range of emotions through its compelling storytelling.

Alita: Battle Angel (2019)

Alita: Battle Angel is regarded as the gold standard for anime-to-film adaptations for reasons that are staggeringly clear. Produced by the world-renowned James Cameron, the film showcases one of the most detailed cyberpunk worlds ever seen on screen. It conscientiously reconstructs the vibe of the 1990 Gunnm manga on which it was based, true to its visual and narrative essence.

It achieves this through a masterful blend of 3D and motion-capture techniques, accurately reimagining definitive moments and key characters. The protagonist, Alita, is especially famous for her large eyes, created with her manga design in mind. The project was first announced in 2003, but production didn’t properly begin until several years later due to Cameron’s commitments to Avatar.

Release Date

February 14, 2019

Runtime

122 minutes

Director

Robert Rodriguez