From gambling to mind games, Kakegurui is a well-written psychological thriller anime offering a nuanced commentary on powerplay. The premise and characters are the standalone aspects that connect well to its popularity among viewers. But there is a catch to that as well.
In particular, its live-action adaptation update seems like a win for the franchise however fans aren’t too happy about it. The news has most readers and viewers disappointed for various reasons. While it seems dramatic, it is synonymous with Cowboy Bebop’s failed live-action adaptation.
Kakegurui’s live-action adaptation update upsets fans
Kakegurui is a fairly popular series in the psychological thriller genre that has its fanbase nonetheless. It is regarded as an underrated yet well-written anime in terms of its layered characters, depth as well as psychological games. Gambling, here, isn’t a mere prop but a catalyst that serves a higher purpose.
It highlights the intricacies of the power play between the characters. The protagonist is on the constant move to break this very hierarchy through her skills and charm. There is a constant seesaw between her personalities as seen when she is ruthless towards her opponents.
The game brings out the complexities within the characters brilliantly. The character development, depth, and gravity are why it has a decent score on both IMDb and Rotten Tomatoes. Its live-action adaptation is in the works however fans aren’t too happy about it.
On X @AniNewsAndFacts shared the live-action visual which ultimately disappointed fans.
“BET” the upcoming English Live-Action Series Based on the Kakegurui Manga by Netflix will be led by showrunner Simon Barry (Warrior Nun).
A boarding school for the global elite where underground gambling determines the social hierarchy is upended by the arrival of a mysterious… pic.twitter.com/NiPE9jQJRU
— Anime News And Facts (@AniNewsAndFacts) February 18, 2025
Why even bother? Kakegurui is such a unique story, it can’t possibly be replicated by Netflix. They couldn’t even do infinitely more adaptable Cowboy Bebop justice, how are they hoping to adapt a story where the protagonist literally orgasms from gambling her life away?
— Sketchie (@Sketchie71) February 18, 2025
Or, hear me out, just watch Kakegurui. You don’t even have to wait! Better yet, read the manga.
— Andrew Thomas the Science Guy (@M4551V3N3RD) February 18, 2025
Can we go back to making new TV series? This is getting really, really old.
— ChaoticNerd (@nerds4nerds) February 18, 2025
they were really going for the race-swap Olympic medal with this one.
— KOHEIYA art (@KOHEIYA2) February 18, 2025
Fans’ concerns and comments are very much valid considering a growing rise in race-swapping culture. Diversity and inclusion are important, yes but often creators compromise with the authenticity aspect of the anime. A perfect example of this is Cowboy Bebop which stands as a failed adaptation.
The misplaced diversity in Netflix’s Cowboy Bebop
Cowboy Bebop is one of the cherished anime for most 90s kids in every sense. The premise, characters, and setting are said to be way ahead of their time. As fans revisit the series, it is imbued with nostalgia, something that the live-action failed to render.
The 2021 series is far-fetched from the 1998 anime in terms of its elements. It tries too hard to invoke a sense of diversity yet it fails in most aspects as fans suggest. This fits perfectly with the race-swapping allegations, especially with the central characters.
It did a major disservice to both Ed and Faye’s character in many ways. In a move toward desexualization, the creators erased Faye’s femme fatale aura which added banality to her character. It would be safe to say that most characters lacked presence compared to the anime.
But like most shows, it did certain things right especially with its casting of queer actors. Although it was met with scornful remarks, the creators did pave the way for LGBTQIA visibility. Yet, live-action adaptations remain a mixed bag if its elements aren’t executed properly.
Kakegurui, Cowboy Bebop anime, and the live-action are available for streaming on Netflix.
This post belongs to FandomWire and first appeared on FandomWire
