Hollywood live-action anime: We don’t love hating it, but with its results and reputation, sometimes we’re left with no choice, y’know?
But despite an overwhelming “no asked for this” from the anime crowd, it seems that producers are persistent folks. This time around, we’re getting another “Death Note,” as produced by the “Stranger Things” creators.
The news broke in line with the announcement of the Duffer Brothers’ new production company Upside Down Pictures, which will be run by Hilary Leavitt (“Orphan Black” and “Ozark”). The company’s current slate includes highlights like a series adaptation of Stephen King and Peter Straub’s “The Talisman,” a “Stranger Things” spin-off and stage play, and an original series from the creators of “The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance.”
In the case of anime fans, one particular project stood out among the rest. The production company is also set to create an “all-new” live-action adaptation of “Death Note.” While most viewers probably won’t need any more reminding, the renowned manga and anime was also adapted into a 2017 American supernatural thriller. However, critic and audience reviews were, well, a bit tough, to say the least.
For non-“Death Note” viewers, the original manga and anime series written by Tsugumi Ohba and illustrated by Takeshi Obata revolved around Light, a college student who comes across a black notebook. He soon discovers that he holds a new godlike power, as every name written in it will ultimately die.
Although not much has been revealed about the upcoming “Death Note” 2.0, Deadline states that this will be an “entirely new take,” offering a clean slate in the same way as “Percy Jackson.” Live-action anime adaptations have had a tumultuous history among fans, so we’re at least crossing our fingers that this breaks the curse.
Read more:
This live-action “Avatar” remix by Netflix better be good
Watch musician TALA do a deep dive into her anime boy fixation
5 anime shows to watch if you think anime is not for you
Still from “Death Note”