On the 27th of the local time, actors Ryoma Takeuchi and Kento Kaku attended a panel discussion for the Amazon Original drama "Like a Dragon: Yakuza" at San Diego Comic-Con, one of the world's largest pop culture events, held from July 25 to 28 in San Diego, USA.

Since its announcement in June that the series would be streamed in over 240 countries and regions on Prime Video, this adaptation of Sega’s hit game series "Like a Dragon: Yakuza" has garnered global attention. The series is a crime suspense action that depicts the growth story of the protagonist Kazuma Kiryu with an original script.

This marks the first time Prime Video Japan hosted a panel discussion at San Diego Comic-Con. Before an audience of around 500 enthusiastic fans of the "Like a Dragon: Yakuza" series, it was revealed that Kaku would play the role of Akira Nishikiyama, Kiryu’s brother figure. During the talk session, they showcased making-of videos, including intense action scenes in an underground fighting arena and the story's setting in "Kamurocho." Both Takeuchi and Kaku gave speeches in fluent English, capturing the fans' attention.

Takeuchi made a dynamic entrance, raising his fist and shouting, "Hey!" He then said in English, "I have a gift for you," and unveiled the teaser trailer. Takeuchi shared his excitement about starring in this globally popular game’s live-action drama, stating, "I was very surprised when I first received this opportunity. This game franchise has been very popular in Japan for 20 years. I had worked with the director 10 years ago, and I'm thrilled to collaborate again. I'm excited to evolve the existing character of Kazuma Kiryu further."

The drama is directed by Masaharu Take, known for films like "100 Yen Love" and the streaming series "The Naked Director." Takeuchi previously appeared in Take's film "In the Hero" (2014).

Speaking about his character preparation, Takeuchi said, "I started by thoroughly understanding the original material and then adding new elements unique to the drama version. I focused on portraying the hardships Kiryu faces in life and contrasting the eras of 1955 and 2005. As I got into makeup and donned the perfect costumes, I gradually became Kazuma Kiryu."

Kaku, who plays Akira Nishikiyama, shared his initial hesitation, "When I received the offer two years ago, I considered declining because it's such a famous and legendary game. But after talking with Director Take and the producers, who were passionate about creating a new version of 'Like a Dragon: Yakuza' that no one had seen before, I decided to take on the role."

The story unfolds across two time periods, 1995 and 2005, depicting the lives of both a teenage Kiryu and a young yakuza. Kaku described his character, "Nishikiyama appears likable on the outside but is deeply sorrowful and unfortunate within. He experiences a range of complex emotions, making him relatable to many. By contrasting the two eras, you'll see different aspects of him. Kiryu and Nishikiyama have a brotherly bond, and during filming, Takeuchi and I talked a lot, from drama production to training. Now, we share a relationship akin to real brothers."

The Amazon Original drama "Like a Dragon: Yakuza" will begin exclusive global streaming on October 25.

Source : ORICON NEWS