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SEGA and Prime Video Unveil 'Like a Dragon: Yakuza' Live-Action Series Starring Ryoma Takeuchi
SEGA and Prime Video have announced the release of 'Like a Dragon: Yakuza,' a six-episode live-action TV series based on the popular Yakuza video game franchise. Set to premiere on October 25, 2024, the series will be available on Prime Video in over 240 countries and territories.
Directed by Masaharu Take, the series stars Ryoma Takeuchi as Kazuma Kiryu, a legendary Yakuza warrior. The narrative spans two time periods, 1995 and 2005, and delves into the life of Kiryu, exploring his sense of justice, duty, and humanity.
The series will be released in two batches, with the first three episodes available on October 25 and the remaining three episodes on November 1. Prime Video will offer the series with subtitles and dubbing in 30 languages, ensuring accessibility for a global audience.
Ryoma Takeuchi expressed his enthusiasm about playing the iconic character Kazuma Kiryu. 'I am truly honored to be given the opportunity to play the role of Kazuma Kiryu, a beloved character and the game series. I strongly felt that I was willing to put my life on the line,' said Takeuchi.
Director Masaharu Take also shared his dedication to the project, stating, 'I have poured out my heart, soul, and the experience that I have accumulated over 35 years into Like a Dragon: Yakuza.'
James Farrell, Head of International Originals at Amazon MGM Studios, highlighted the significance of the series. 'We are thrilled and extremely excited to announce the Amazon Original action drama Like a Dragon: Yakuza based on the popular Japanese game series,' Farrell said, emphasizing the importance of this adaptation.
Masayoshi Yokoyama, Head of RYUGAGOTOKU Studio and Executive Producer, emphasized the authenticity of the adaptation. 'If I had to go through the wringer anyhow, I'd want to make the most engaging versions of Kamurochō and Kazuma Kiryu I could, and this show has it all,' Yokoyama remarked.
The Yakuza video game franchise, first released in 2005 by SEGA, has attracted a global fanbase with its compelling storytelling and complex characters. The live-action series aims to capture the essence of the games while introducing new elements to keep viewers engaged.
Prime Video's adaptation of 'Like a Dragon: Yakuza' marks a significant step in bringing Japanese content to a broader audience. With its international reach and multilingual support, the series is set to attract both longtime fans and newcomers to the Yakuza universe.
With the release date drawing near, anticipation continues to build for this highly awaited adaptation. Fans of the Yakuza series can look forward to an immersive experience that brings the beloved characters and stories to life in a new and exciting format.
Key Takeaways
- SEGA and Prime Video announce live-action TV series "Like a Dragon: Yakuza" based on popular video game franchise.
- Six-episode series premieres on October 25, 2024, in over 240 countries and territories.
- Ryoma Takeuchi stars as Kazuma Kiryu, a legendary Yakuza warrior, in a narrative spanning 1995 and 2005.
- Series will be released in two batches, with subtitles and dubbing in 30 languages.
- Prime Video's adaptation aims to bring Japanese content to a broader audience, attracting both fans and newcomers to the Yakuza universe.