Live-Action Adaptation of "Otonari Complex" Unveils Trailer
The release of a trailer and the announcement of additional cast members on January 28, 2025, has further fueled anticipation for the live-action series adaptation of Saku Nonomura's manga, "Otonari Complex."
https://twitter.com/nbcuni_drama/status/1884408620265431303The production, set to premiere on Fuji TV on February 20, 2025, promises a faithful adaptation of the source material, combined with modern staging and direction.
Expanding the Ensemble and Creative Team
The cast now includes Manami Igashira as Fumi Nishikubo, Kita Komagine as Kengo Ogawa, and Ryōya Nagano, Kōya Matsudai, and Mariya Nagao in key supporting roles. The ensemble is further enhanced by established actors such as Sō Yamanaka, Keiko Yagi, and Yuri Kasama, who bring additional depth to the storyline.
Hiroshi Soejima is directing the series, while Nishioka to Neil and Kokeshi Murata penned the screenplay.
The musical score is composed by Daisuke Nishimura, known professionally as DUNK. The series features a blend of experienced actors and rising talents, including Towa Araki as Makoto Ninomiya and Koko as his neighbor, Akira Kuji.
Plot and Thematic Focus
The story follows Makoto and Akira, whose unusual dynamic – a boy perceived as feminine and a woman who appears masculine – challenges traditional gender roles.
The series explores their complex relationship, as well as entanglements with friends who develop their own feelings. According to Seven Seas Entertainment, the English-language publisher of the manga, it is a "complicated love story between childhood friends."
The manga, which ran from November 2014 to August 2022 in "Kurofune" magazine, consists of five volumes. The second English-language edition was released in November 2024, underscoring its continued international popularity.
Voices on the Project
Manami Igashira, who plays Fumi Nishikubo, emphasizes, "There's something deeply heartwarming about the story.
Although my character disrupts the protagonists' relationship, she is driven by pure love." Kita Komagine, who plays Kengo Ogawa, highlights, "The series reminds us how easily we can overlook what's important in life. Viewers can look forward to seeing how the love configurations unfold."
Mariya Nagao, in the role of Sayaka Ninomiya, comments on the atmosphere on set: "The chemistry between the lead actors was magical. You could feel how much they embodied their characters."
Conclusion and Outlook
With a mix of humorous scenes and emotional depth, "Otonari Complex" positions itself as a series that will appeal to both fans of the manga and newcomers alike.
The emphasis on self-acceptance and the portrayal of unconventional relationship dynamics could spark social discussions.
The premiere on February 20th will reveal whether the adaptation has the potential to become a cultural phenomenon – not only in Japan but globally.
"Sometimes the greatest strength of a story lies in reminding us that love needs no labels," concludes an anonymous crew member.
Expectations are high, but the insights shared so far promise an adaptation that remains faithful to the original while setting new standards.
Sources: Otonari Complex live-action series' website, Comic Natalie, AnimeNewsNetwork