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Netflix has officially cast Omar Sy to portray the first African samurai in the upcoming live-action Yasuke original series. The live-action series will be the second time the streamer has explored the enslaved African man brought to feudal Japan who rose to become the country’s first non-Japanese samurai.
The five-part series from Netflix will pair the streamer up with some familiar collaborators, such as notable screenwriter Nick Jones Jr., who will write the screenplay for the live-action adventure. Jones was an essential component that helped create the Yasuke anime adaption, which made its premiere on Netflix last year. Jones served as head writer for the anime series and will now be allowed to bring the illustrious true story of Yasuke to life in live-action form.
As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, Sy will officially join the live-action series to play the titular character in Jones's new take on the historical figure. The well-known Lupin star will look to step into the shoes of a real-life legend who defied the obstacles placed before him to make an incredibly lasting mark in history. "I've been inspired by Yasuke for quite a while," stated Sy. "With this superb team, we are creating a remarkable series showcasing what it meant to be an African samurai in Japanese history." The acclaimed Lupin star will also serve as an executive producer for the live-action series alongside Jones.
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The Yasuke anime adaptation from Netflix was well-received by critics, earning 93% on Rotten Tomatoes, with many praising the series for its beautiful animation and its skillful fusion of fantasy and history. In addition, the hit series had an incredible cast, including Atlanta star Lakeith Stanfield, who voiced the titular character. However, the live-action take on the emblematic figure will look to step away from fantastical elements and will focus on Yasuke's rise in feudal Japan and his friendship with samurai Oda Nobunaga.
Beyond Sy's casting and Jones' return to write the screenplay for the live-action series, not much has surfaced regarding the project. As things develop, the picture should become clearer, but until then, audiences will have to wait patiently over the coming months.
It will be intriguing to see how Jones's vision for Yasuke transitions from an anime atmosphere into a live-action setting, where realism will play a critical role in bringing the revered figure to life. Sy will undoubtedly add a unique touch that audiences will enjoy, but only time will tell if the series will accurately and respectfully honor the legendary figure.
Yasuke, the anime series, is currently available to watch on Netflix.
Source: The Hollywood Reporter