Fans of the classic anime series City Hunter have a reason to celebrate, as a new City Hunter anime film is set to hit streaming sites soon. The popular manga and anime series, which debuted in 1985, is finally getting a new movie instalment after more than three decades.
Netflix is continuing to expand its Japanese content offerings with the approval of a live-action movie adaptation of the renowned Japanese manga, City Hunter. The streaming giant has enlisted the talents of Ryohei Suzuki, one of Japan’s most celebrated actors, to take on the lead role of Ryo Saeba. Accompanying Suzuki is Yuichi Sato Kisaragi, the accomplished director behind critically acclaimed productions such as Strawberry Nights and The End of the Tiny World.
City Hunter, created by the renowned manga artist Tsukasa Hojo, became a cultural phenomenon throughout Japan during the 1980s, selling over 50 million copies worldwide. The franchise has since spawned an anime series and multiple feature-length adaptations. Including movies produced in Hong Kong, France, and mainland China. However, this upcoming live-action adaptation marks the first time that the property will receive its silver-screen debut in Japan.
Netflix’s move to secure the rights for City Hunter is part of the company’s strategic plan to continue investing in new and diverse Japanese content. By expanding its portfolio with fresh, high-quality productions like City Hunter, Netflix aims to appeal to a more extensive range of viewers globally. The live-action City Hunter movie is expected to captivate both longtime fans of the franchise and new audiences alike with its thrilling action scenes, captivating storyline, and an all-star cast.
About the City Hunter anime and manga series
Japanese manga City Hunter is making waves around the world, captivating audiences with its blend of action, comedy, and romance. Created by Tsukasa Hojo, the manga first appeared in Weekly Shonen Jump in 1985 and quickly became a sensation.
The story follows Ryo Saeba, a skilled gunman who works as a “sweeper,” taking on various jobs to protect his clients. Along the way, he is joined by Kaori Makimura, his partner and love interest, who helps him solve crimes and navigate the dangers of their world.
City Hunter has been adapted into multiple anime series, movies, and live-action dramas over the years, with each iteration introducing new fans to its thrilling and humorous universe. The anime series that aired in the late 80s and early 90s remains a classic, featuring iconic opening and ending songs and unforgettable characters.
The manga and anime have also had a significant impact on popular culture, inspiring numerous parodies, references, and homages in other works. The series has been referenced in everything from music videos to video games, and it even inspired a spin-off manga, Angel Heart.
Despite its popularity, City Hunter anime is not without controversy. Some have criticised the series for its portrayal of women and the romanticization of sexual harassment. However, others argue that the series is a product of its time and should be viewed in its historical context.
Regardless of the debate, City Hunter anime continues to be a beloved series for many fans, with its enduring popularity a testament to its enduring appeal. Whether you’re a longtime fan or discovering the series for the first time, there’s never been a better time to dive into the exciting and hilarious world of City Hunter.
The City Hunter Anime Film Cast
Netflix’s “City Hunter” movie is set to break new ground as the first-ever live-action Japanese adaptation of the popular manga series. The Hollywood Reporter has revealed that the film will be set in modern-day Shinjuku, and is expected to feature a more realistic and grittier look compared to the slapstick elements of the anime and original manga.
The movie will star Ryohei Suzuki as Ryo Saeba and be directed by Yuichi Sato. The script has been penned by Tatsuhiro Mishima, who is also writing Netflix’s “Yu Yu Hakusho” adaptation. While some fans may be disappointed to see the story move away from its original 1980s setting, the fact that “City Hunter anime” is a relatively straightforward detective story means that it is free from the complex character designs and fantastical elements that have plagued other manga adaptations in the past.
The premise of the movie—a detective fighting crime while flirting with girls—has universal appeal, and the film’s comedic tone is not dissimilar to the type of buddy cop movies that Shane Black excels at making. It remains to be seen whether “City Hunter anime” will usher in a new era of successful live-action manga adaptations.
But the fact that it is already generating excitement among fans is a promising sign. For those who have been disappointed by previous attempts to adapt their favourite manga series, “City Hunter anime” is one adaptation that is worth keeping an eye on.
