Following the triumph of “Sinners” and numerous box office smashes, Michael B. Jordan seems to have a wide range of options for his next venture, but he’s eagerly eyeing an opportunity to direct again. While speculation has swirled about potential sequels like “Sinners 2,” “Creed 4,” or even a Killmonger MCU prequel, Jordan has expressed a strong interest in something different: he wants to adapt one of his beloved anime series into live-action, which could be an exceptional move.
In a recent conversation with Vulture, Michael B. Jordan shared that alongside his upcoming directorial project, “Thomas Crown Affair”, he has a strong desire to direct a live-action adaptation of an anime. He expressed, “Perhaps, I could find an anime and perhaps create a live-action version of it.” Michael B. Jordan openly embraces his love for anime, often acknowledging its impact during interviews. During the promotional tour for “Creed III”, he frequently mentioned how shows such as “Dragon Ball Z”, “Naruto”, and “Hajime no Ippo” influenced the fight sequences in the film.
In a nutshell, drawing inspiration from anime and creating live-action adaptations are two distinct endeavors. Many fans of the medium find live-action anime adaptations problematic, often due to their disappointing outcomes. With a few exceptions like Netflix’s One Piece, most live-action adaptations fall short and pale in comparison to the original series. To illustrate this point using a metaphor, these adaptations can be likened to empty shells. The 2017 live-action version of Ghost in the Shell is one such example that comes to mind, but there are also other misfires like Netflix’s Cowboy Bebop, Bet, and the infamous Dragonball Evolution.
For Michael B. Jordan, the prospect of directing a live-action anime would be not only a long-cherished dream but also an exciting change from his customary undertakings. “I have a deep appreciation for animation and anime,” he explained further. “Perhaps something in that realm, to freshen things up a bit.
Which Anime Should Michael B. Jordan Direct?
The array of anime that could potentially make great live-action adaptations seems almost boundless. However, considering Michael B. Jordan’s background with the medium, there are a handful of titles that really stand out. In a recent interview, Jordan mentioned his current fascination with the third season of “Fire Force”. Additionally, he holds a special affection for the enigmatic and thought-provoking “Fate” series, including its latest installment, “Fate/Stay Night”.
Fire Force would make a fantastic choice for a live-action transformation. This series unfolds in a universe where humans mysteriously burst into flames and transform into infernal beings. The Fire Force units, consisting of firefighters who possess pyrokinetic abilities, are tasked with combating these infernals. The animation and storyline in the anime and Atsushi Ohkubo’s manga are exhilarating and would translate brilliantly on the big screen.
It might be unwise to create an anime adaptation for Dragon Ball, given the disappointing 2007 film. Yet, Michael B. Jordan’s enthusiasm for Naruto could lead to a captivating adaptation if executed skillfully. As for alternative options, the boxing series Hajime no Ippo seems fitting, but since Michael B. Jordan has participated in three fights within the Creed franchise and even directed one, it might not offer the fresh start he’s seeking.
Read More
2025-06-11 00:32