Hirayasumi: Manga Sensation Lands Anime & Live-Action Adaptations

Hirayasumi: The Acclaimed Manga's Double Adaptation

Keigo Shinzo’s manga, "Hirayasumi," a beloved slice-of-life gem, is set to expand its global reach with upcoming anime and live-action adaptations. This exciting news, confirmed by Viz Media and Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions, has generated significant buzz among fans and across the entertainment industry.

First debuting in "Weekly Big Comic Spirits" in 2021 and becoming available to English-speaking audiences through Viz Media in May 2024, "Hirayasumi" has already become a cultural phenomenon. The story follows the relaxed and carefree life of Hiroto Ikuta, a 29-year-old without traditional career or romantic aspirations, as he navigates daily life with his cousin Natsumi, an art student. They share a single-story home inherited from a neighbor. The manga deeply resonates with readers of all ages by exploring universal themes like anxiety, grief, and the search for purpose in modern life.

Its widespread appeal is evident in its sales, with over 1.1 million copies sold worldwide across six volumes. "Hirayasumi" has also received prestigious accolades, including the Grand Prize of the Kagayake! Bros Comic Awards, the Grand Prize of the 27th Osamu Tezuka Cultural Award, and the award for Best Ongoing Comic at Lucca Comics & Games 2024. This critical and commercial success was key in Viz Media's decision to greenlight a high-quality anime adaptation.

The Animated Adaptation: A High-Level Collaboration

The animation of the series will be handled by Production +h., known for its visually striking work on “The Orbital Children” and “Dead Dead Demon’s Dededede Destruction,” suggesting a visually appealing and stylistically interesting experience for Hirayasumi anime fans. The production has the backing of Shogakukan-Shueisha Productions Co., Ltd., ensuring a high level of quality in this animated adaptation.

Live-Action Adaptation and Author's Enthusiasm

In addition to the anime, a live-action adaptation has also been confirmed, which will be broadcast this fall on NHK General TV within the "Yoru Dora" programming block. Author Keigo Shinzo expressed his enthusiasm for both adaptations with the comment: “I’m so happy that an anime and a drama are being made! I'm really looking forward to seeing the final product!”

Global Impact and Future Prospects

The dual adaptation of "Hirayasumi" promises a multifaceted exploration of its heartfelt story. With an anime produced by Production +h. and a live-action drama airing on NHK, fans can expect both versions to stay true to the manga's essence, focusing on human relationships, the search for meaning in daily life, and the beauty of simple moments. This adaptation into different formats opens new avenues to explore the manga's complex themes, offering an even richer and more emotional experience for its followers. Viz Media describes this co-production as a significant milestone, reinforcing its dedication to promoting top-tier Japanese stories globally. Anticipation for these new adaptations is also growing with the ninth manga volume set for release on July 30th.