Yakuza Series Takes to Live-Action in New Teaser

Sega and Prime Video recently offered a sneak peek at their upcoming live-action adaptation of the popular Yakuza game series, Like a Dragon: Yakuza. This article delves into the project, highlighting director Masayoshi Yokoyama's insights.

Like a Dragon: Yakuza Premieres 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 series. Ryoma Takeuchi portrays the iconic Kazuma Kiryu, and Kento Kaku plays the antagonist, Akira Nishikiyama. Director Masayoshi Yokoyama emphasized the actors' unique approach to their roles.

In a Sega interview at SDCC, Yokoyama stated, "Their portrayals are completely different from the game's original characters. But that's precisely what makes it exciting." He acknowledged the game's perfected Kiryu but welcomed the fresh perspective the series offers.

The teaser showcased glimpses of the iconic Coliseum in Underground Purgatory and Kiryu's confrontation with Futoshi Shimano.

The teaser's 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, offering a side of Kiryu previously unseen in the games.

Yokoyama's Perspective on the Adaptation

Addressing initial fan concerns about the adaptation's tone, Yokoyama assured fans that the Prime Video series captures "the essence of the original."

In his SDCC interview, he explained his primary concern was avoiding mere imitation. He aimed for viewers to experience Like a Dragon as if it were their first encounter with the world.

"Honestly, it was so good, I was envious," Yokoyama continued. "We created the setting 20 years ago, but they've made it their own...without sacrificing the original story."

Following a viewing, he commented, "For newcomers, it's a new world. For fans, it'll bring a constant smile." He also hinted at a major surprise at the end of the first episode.

While the teaser provides limited footage, fans won't have long to wait. Like a Dragon: Yakuza premieres exclusively on Amazon Prime Video on October 24th, with the first three episodes released simultaneously. The remaining three episodes will follow on November 1st.