Michael B. Jordan anime live-action directorial dream project discussions have gained momentum as the popular actor and director, fresh off his latest successes, contemplates which beloved series he could adapt to the big screen. Fans have begun speculating after Jordan expressed his strong passion for anime and his intent to direct a new live-action adaptation, fueling excitement and debate throughout the anime community.
Jordan’s Creative Aspirations Beyond Blockbusters
Following the acclaim surrounding both Sinners and Creed III, Michael B. Jordan seems positioned to select nearly any project he desires. Having successfully directed Creed III, he is eagerly looking to return to the director’s chair. While some expected his next move to be a Sinners sequel or another chapter in the Creed franchise, Jordan’s deep-rooted love for anime is guiding his next step in a surprising direction.
In a recent interview with Vulture, Jordan made clear that his ambitions go well beyond traditional cinema. He mentioned that, alongside helming the upcoming Thomas Crown Affair, his dream is to adapt an anime series for live-action.
“Maybe, find an anime- maybe do a live-action version of that anime,”
he said. Michael B. Jordan’s appreciation for anime was also evident during the promotional campaign for Creed III, when he repeatedly highlighted how series like Dragon Ball Z, Naruto, and Hajime no Ippo inspired the film’s fight choreography.
Challenges of Anime Adaptations in Hollywood
Bringing anime to life on the big screen isn’t a new ambition for filmmakers, but it often comes with unique challenges. The genre’s dedicated fans have frequently voiced frustration at poorly received adaptations, which tend to falter at both the storytelling and stylistic levels. While Netflix’s live-action One Piece has managed to stand out for its relative success, other attempts such as Cowboy Bebop, Ghost in the Shell (2017), and the infamously panned Dragonball Evolution demonstrate the inherent risks of these projects.
Nevertheless, the appeal of seeing animated worlds reimagined in live-action remains strong for Jordan.
“So maybe something around that space. Kind of cleanse the palette,”
he explained, reinforcing his desire to explore new creative territory and distinguish himself from his previous work.
Anime Series That Top Jordan’s Wish List
The pool of anime worthy of live-action treatment is vast, but certain series stand out because of Michael B. Jordan’s preferences and history with the genre. In his conversation with Vulture, he mentioned that he is currently watching the new season of Fire Force and has a deep appreciation for the Fate franchise, particularly Fate/Stay Night, known for its intricate storytelling and dynamic action.
Fire Force emerges as a strong candidate for adaptation. The story is set in a universe where spontaneous human combustion transforms people into destructive beings called Infernals. To combat these threats, Special Fire Force squads—firefighters wielding pyrokinetic powers—fight to save their city. The intense action sequences in both Atsushi Ohkubo’s manga and the anime would be well-suited to Michael B. Jordan’s cinematic style.
Other potential choices include Naruto, a favorite of Jordan’s, although fans remain cautious in light of previous adaptation missteps. While Dragon Ball continues to inspire the actor-director, its last live-action outing left a negative impression on aficionados and critics alike. Hajime no Ippo, the celebrated boxing anime, might appear to be an obvious fit due to Jordan’s background in Creed. However, given his multiple rounds in the boxing arena, he may be seeking a narrative detour to keep his work fresh and invigorating.
Fan Anticipation and What Comes Next
As speculation swirls regarding which anime project Michael B. Jordan will select, fans and industry observers are closely watching for official announcements. His admiration for anime is evident, and supporters are eager to see how he might innovate within the live-action space, especially as other high-profile directors have struggled with similar adaptations.
Given the popularity of series like Fire Force and Naruto, coupled with Jordan’s reputation for energy and authenticity, expectations are high for a project that could break the cycle of disappointment in live-action anime. While Ryan Coogler, Hailee Steinfeld, and the wider anime fan community remain attentive, the buzz around Michael B. Jordan’s next directorial move is pushing the conversation about the potential for genuinely successful anime adaptations in Hollywood even further into the spotlight.
