This week's Weekly Shonen Jump #43 dropped a bombshell: Yuto Suzuki's hit manga, SAKAMOTO DAYS, is getting a live-action film adaptation! The news even graced the issue's cover, leaving fans buzzing about who would bring the characters to life.
And just when we thought the suspense would kill us, the official announcement landed today (September 23)! Snow Man's Ren Meguro is set to star as Taro Sakamoto, with visionary director Yuichi Fukuda at the helm. The film is slated for a Golden Week 2026 release, and they've even dropped the first key visual and a teaser trailer!
Given Meguro's popularity and physique, playing the "slimmed-down" Taro Sakamoto should be a breeze. But here's the burning question: who's tackling the retired, "chubby" Sakamoto? Will Meguro transform for the role, or is there another actor in the wings? Official details are still under wraps!
Speaking of director Yuichi Fukuda, this comedy genius needs no introduction! He's the mastermind behind the live-action "Gintama" series and "Shin Kaishaku: Sangokushi" ("New Interpretation: Records of the Three Kingdoms"), proving his knack for bringing beloved stories to the big screen.
Fukuda even took to X (formerly Twitter) to share his excitement. He revealed that colleagues had initially suggested "SAKAMOTO DAYS" for an adaptation, but he didn't give it much thought. Then, last spring, he picked up the manga again and was instantly hooked, deciding to officially take on the project. He teased a "super luxurious" cast, urging fans to get hyped!
He also mentioned that working with Ren Meguro and the entire cast has been a blast, filled with "happy memories" and "laughter throughout the entire process." He promised to share more behind-the-scenes stories later.
Adding to the excitement, CREDEUS, the production company behind critically acclaimed live-action hits like "Kingdom" and "Golden Kamuy," is handling this project. Their involvement has definitely put many fans at ease!
The "SAKAMOTO DAYS" live-action film is slated for release during Japan's Golden Week holidays in 2026. We're sure more cast announcements are on the way, so stay tuned for official updates!
▼ Teaser Trailer