Like a Dragon: Yakuza Series Coming to Prime, Featuring Ryoma Takeuchi and Kento Kaku
Ryu Ga Gotoku Studio’s Like a Dragon series, previously known as “Yakuza,” holds a special place in the hearts of many gamers. The classic titles, filled with nostalgia, have captivated fans for years. In a recent interview, the stars of the new Like a Dragon: Yakuza series, Ryoma Takeuchi and Kento Kaku, shared their thoughts on the upcoming show. They were joined by executive producer Eric Barmack, who shed light on Prime’s decision to bring the IP to audiences in an authentic way.
Starting from the Inside: The Key to Portraying Kiryu
Takeuchi, who plays the iconic character Kazuma Kiryu, emphasized the importance of starting from the ground-up and focusing on human emotion. He believes that understanding how we feel things is crucial when portraying a character. By extracting and expanding on those emotions, actors can bring authenticity to their performances. Takeuchi also noted that starting from the inside, rather than the surface, is the key to any creative process.
Creating a New Version of Like a Dragon: Nishiki’s Perspective
Kaku, cast as Akira “Nishiki” Nishikiyama, shared his experience with the series. Before being cast, he tried to play the first game but was stopped by director Masahiru Take. The creators wanted to explore the character from scratch and create a fresh version of Like a Dragon. This approach allowed the actors to bring their own interpretations to the roles, rather than being influenced by previous portrayals.
Authenticity and Storytelling: Bringing Like a Dragon to Prime
Barmack expressed how the Like a Dragon IP resonates with millions of people. Prime’s goal was to bring the series to audiences authentically. To achieve this, they made the decision to produce the show in Japanese, with the best Japanese actors and a fantastic director. Barmack recognized the importance of understanding what makes the game popular and beloved by fans. By being thoughtful about storytelling, they aimed to expand the audience’s appreciation for the series.
A Premium Series Worth Creating
During the interview, it was revealed that both Barmack and Takeuchi recognized the interviewer as Kiryu’s common-law wife, given her dedication to the series. This anecdote highlights the deep connection fans have with the characters. Barmack explained that what drew him to the series was the well-developed characters who felt alive, the unique sense of humor, and the vast world that allowed for countless stories to be told. This realization led to the decision to create a premium series around Like a Dragon.
Conclusion: A New Chapter for Like a Dragon
The upcoming Like a Dragon: Yakuza series on Prime promises to be a thrilling adaptation of the beloved game franchise. With a focus on portraying the characters’ emotions authentically and creating a fresh interpretation of the story, fans can look forward to a captivating and immersive experience. The dedication of the actors and the thoughtful approach to storytelling ensure that the essence of Like a Dragon will be preserved while expanding its reach to a wider audience. So, get ready to dive into the world of Like a Dragon once again, this time on the small screen.