The highly anticipated live-action adaptation of Kengo Hanazawa’s UNDER NINJA has unveiled a new trailer, accompanied by the announcement of its theme song, “Shinobi”, performed by the renowned hip-hop duo Creepy Nuts. Scheduled for a 2025 release, the film aims to deliver an exhilarating blend of action, humor, and social commentary, staying true to the manga’s dark and gritty tone.
Overview of the Film
UNDER NINJA is based on Kengo Hanazawa’s popular manga of the same name, serialized in Kodansha’s Weekly Young Magazine. Known for its dark humor and unique take on ninja culture, the story reimagines ninjas as covert operatives in modern society.
The film adaptation is helmed by Yu Irie, a director celebrated for his skill in creating suspenseful and thought-provoking narratives, such as Confessions of a Murderer. Backed by Warner Bros. Japan, the production aims to captivate both fans of the manga and newcomers alike.
Plot Synopsis
The story centers around Kuro Kumogakure, a down-on-his-luck modern-day ninja struggling to find purpose in a society that has moved beyond traditional espionage. Kuro’s life takes a turn when he is tasked with a dangerous covert mission, leading him to confront absurd challenges and dangerous foes.
As Kuro navigates his assignments, the film weaves elements of action and social satire, exploring themes of relevance, identity, and survival in a rapidly changing world.
Creepy Nuts and the Theme Song “Shinobi”
The trailer introduces the film’s official theme song, “Shinobi”, performed by the critically acclaimed duo Creepy Nuts. Known for their unique storytelling through hip-hop, Creepy Nuts brings an energetic and modern flair to the movie.
- The track “Shinobi” perfectly aligns with the film’s edgy tone, blending traditional ninja imagery with contemporary beats.
- Creepy Nuts has expressed excitement about their involvement, describing the project as a “perfect synergy” between their musical style and the film’s narrative.
Director and Studio
The film is directed by Yu Irie, whose past works (The Sun Does Not Move, Joker Game) demonstrate a strong aptitude for balancing tension, action, and character depth.
Warner Bros. Japan is producing the movie, adding another blockbuster to its portfolio of successful live-action adaptations.
Production Details
- Director: Yu Irie (Confessions of a Murderer).
- Studio: Warner Bros. Japan.
- Release Date: Early 2025.
- Adapted From: The manga series by Kengo Hanazawa.
What to Expect
Fans of UNDER NINJA can look forward to:
- Action-Packed Sequences: The trailer teases choreographed fight scenes that merge traditional ninja techniques with modern combat styles.
- Dark Humor: Staying true to the manga, the film features moments of absurdity and sharp wit, creating a unique blend of suspense and comedy.
- Faithful Adaptation: The production team has emphasized its commitment to capturing the essence of Kengo Hanazawa’s original work, ensuring a balance of narrative depth and entertainment.
Cultural and Fan Impact
The live-action adaptation of UNDER NINJA has generated significant buzz due to its unique premise and the involvement of talented creators. With Creepy Nuts contributing to the soundtrack, the film is expected to resonate with younger audiences while staying faithful to the manga’s core themes.
The movie also highlights the growing popularity of ninja narratives in modern storytelling, offering a fresh perspective on the genre.
Conclusion
UNDER NINJA is shaping up to be a groundbreaking live-action adaptation, combining compelling storytelling, stunning visuals, and a killer soundtrack. With its modern take on ninja culture and the star power of Creepy Nuts, the film is set to leave a lasting impact on fans and newcomers alike when it debuts in early 2025.
