Netflix's recent announcement to adapt the popular anime and web novel "Solo Leveling" highlights the mixed sentiments from its fanbase. Originally a Korean web novel released in 2016, "Solo Leveling" saw a rise in popularity with its 2024 anime adaptation, depicting the journey of Sung Jin-woo, an underdog monster hunter who rises to power. However, many fans fear that the live-action version may fail to capture the essence of the original. Swedish anime fan Andre Denisson expressed his doubts, saying he has never enjoyed a live-action remake and sees no need for them, while Spain's Ander Guerrero believes that the CGI required for the fight sequences will fall short compared to the animated counterpart.
The challenge lies in adapting a medium that has a distinct artistic style and emotional depth; transitions from animation to live action can result in loss of critical narrative components. Geoff Thew, an anime reviewer with a substantial following, warns that elements that resonate well in animation may not translate effectively to a live-action format. The discrepancies between the two mediums have been evident in past examples, such as the disastrous reception of Hollywood’s "Dragonball Evolution" and "Ghost in the Shell."
Despite past failures, Hollywood has not shied away from attempts, with recent projects for adaptations of "Gundam" and "Naruto" in the works. As the anime market boasts a value estimated to reach over $60 billion by 2030, streaming platforms like Netflix are keen to capitalize on anime's growing popularity. Data shows that over half of Netflix’s global subscribers engage with anime content, suggesting a significant potential audience.
Some fans believe that the public perception of anime has shifted, becoming more mainstream and widely accepted. The pandemic fostered a “seismic shift” toward anime viewership, with many seeking alternatives to traditional Hollywood storytelling. Parisa Haghighat, a UK fan, recalls how anime used to be associated with niche audiences, but has since grown to be popular among wider groups.
However, with anime so readily available and appealing, the question arises why studios continue to pursue live-action adaptations. Alex Cameron of Parrot Analytics theorizes that studios may hope these adaptations encourage viewers to engage with the original anime, thereby prolonging audience retention. Netflix seems to be adopting lessons from prior missteps, hoping that the Korean-led cast of "Solo Leveling" will preserve the cultural integrity of the story, as opposed to Hollywood’s often criticized approach.
In summary, as studios attempt to bridge the gap between anime and live action, many fans remain hopeful that upcoming adaptations can honor the source material's legacy while presenting it to new audiences—a delicate balance of creative vision and loyal interpretation.
