Sega and Prime Video have finally offered a sneak peek at their upcoming live-action adaptation of the Yakuza series. Dive in to discover more about the show and RGG Studio Director Masayoshi Yokoyama's perspective.
Like a Dragon: Yakuza Debuts October 24th
A Fresh Interpretation of Kazuma Kiryu
At San Diego Comic-Con on July 26th, Sega and Amazon unveiled the first teaser for the live-action Yakuza series, *Like a Dragon: Yakuza*.The teaser showcased Ryoma Takeuchi (known for Kamen Rider Drive) as the iconic Kazuma Kiryu and Kento Kaku as the main antagonist, Akira Nishikiyama. RGG Studio Director Masayoshi Yokoyama highlighted the actors' unique approach to their roles.
"Their portrayals are completely different from the game," Yokoyama stated in a Sega SDCC interview. "But that's precisely what makes it so compelling." While acknowledging the game's definitive portrayal of Kiryu, Yokoyama embraced the fresh perspective offered by the series.
The teaser briefly showcased iconic locations like the Underground Purgatory Coliseum and a confrontation between Kiryu and Futoshi Shimano.
The teaser description promises a portrayal of "fierce yet passionate gangsters and the inhabitants of Kamurochō," a fictional district inspired by Kabukichō.
Loosely based on the first game, the series explores the lives of Kazuma Kiryu and his childhood friends, revealing aspects of Kiryu's story "previously unexplored in the games."
Sega's Interview with Masayoshi Yokoyama
Addressing initial fan concerns about the series potentially overlooking the game's lighter moments, Masayoshi Yokoyama assured fans that the Prime Video series captures "the essence of the original."
In his SDCC interview, Yokoyama explained his primary concern: "avoiding mere imitation. I wanted viewers to experience Like a Dragon as if it were their first encounter."
"Honestly, it was so good, I was envious," Yokoyama continued. "We created the setting 20 years ago, but they made it their own...without sacrificing the original story."
Following a screening, he commented, "For newcomers, it's a new world. For fans, it's a constant source of smiles." He even hinted at a major surprise at the end of the first episode that left him completely astonished.
While the teaser offers limited glimpses, fans won't have long to wait. Like a Dragon: Yakuza premieres exclusively on Amazon Prime Video October 24th, with the first three episodes released simultaneously. The remaining three episodes will follow on November 1st.
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