Sega and Prime Video have finally unveiled a sneak peek of their upcoming Yakuza live-action series! Dive into the details below to learn more about this exciting adaptation and the director's perspective.
Like a Dragon: Yakuza – October 24th Premiere
A Fresh Interpretation of Kazuma Kiryu
At San Diego Comic-Con, Sega and Amazon treated Yakuza fans to the first look at the live-action series, *Like a Dragon: Yakuza*, on July 26th.The teaser showcased Ryoma Takeuchi as the legendary Kazuma Kiryu and Kento Kaku as the series' main antagonist, Akira Nishikiyama. RGG Studio Director Masayoshi Yokoyama highlighted the actors' unique approach to their roles. In a Sega interview at SDCC, he commented on Takeuchi (known for "Kamen Rider Drive") and Kaku's fresh interpretations:
"Honestly, their portrayals are completely different from the game," the director stated. "But that's the beauty of it." Yokoyama acknowledged the game's perfected portrayal of Kiryu but expressed his appreciation for the show's innovative take on both characters.
The teaser offered brief glimpses of iconic locations like the Coliseum in Underground Purgatory 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 vibrant entertainment district inspired by Kabukichō."
Loosely based on the first game, the series follows Kazuma Kiryu and his childhood friends, exploring facets of Kiryu's life "previously unseen in the games."
Sega's Interview with Masayoshi Yokoyama
Addressing initial fan concerns about the adaptation's ability to capture the game's lighter moments alongside its gritty atmosphere, Masayoshi Yokoyama assured fans that the Prime Video series will retain "the essence of the original."
In his SDCC interview with Sega, Yokoyama explained his primary goal: "My biggest fear was simply creating an imitation. I wanted viewers to experience Like a Dragon as if it were their first encounter."
"To be honest, it was so good, I was envious," Yokoyama continued. "We created this world 20 years ago, but they've made it their own… without sacrificing the original story."
After viewing the series, he remarked, "For newcomers, it's a brand-new world. For fans, it's a guaranteed smile-inducing experience." He even hinted at a major surprise at the end of the first episode that left him "jumping out of my seat!"
While the teaser offers only a small taste, 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.
