A couple of weeks ago there was a rumor from Twitch that a live-action version of KIKI’S DELIVERY SERVICE was being planned with director Shimizu Takashi (JU-ON: THE CURSE, THE GRUDGE) helming the film. Today Twitch has learned that the rumor is indeed true. In fact they already have someone cast for the lead: sixteen-year old figure skater Koshiba Fuka.
Most people know of KIKI’S DELIVER SERVICE because of the animated film by Hayao Miyazaki, but it was based off of a novel by Eiko Kadano that also spawned a Manga and a stage musical. There are actually six novels about the adventures of Kiki and while the animated film covered only the first book this live-action version will use material from the first two novels in the series.
Book synopsis:
The book follows Kiki, a young witch. Her mother is also a witch, but her father is not. Kiki is now thirteen and must spend a year on her own in a town without other witches. She must use her magic abilities to earn her living. She is accompanied by her cat Jiji.
There’s a lot of love for KIKI’S DELIVERY SERVICE and Hayao Miyazaki so I hope Shimizu Takashi is prepared to deal with some criticism. The animated film didn’t reach a huge audience here in America but fans of the film (and Hayao Miyazaki) are very passionate and might not have kind words to say about this adaptation. I enjoyed the animated film and I could see how a big budget live-action film could work but I think it’s a big risk that could alienate a lot of fans of the novel and the original film. What say you?
