| Viz Media has teamed up with United Talent Agency (UTA) according to an announcement made on March 23rd. It's a pairing which could spell drama in the shape of a US live action Death Note TV show. That isn't precisely what has been said, but it's pretty much the way that everyone's been looking, when they hear the news. Viz Media publishes Death Note manga and anime in the Americas. The company owns its copyright there, hence may adapt the content how it will. UTA specializes in producing live-action media for entertainment. It doesn't take L to put two and two together there. |  |
However, we might all be jumping the gun here somewhat. After all, Viz Media has a rather large anime, manga and gaming portfolio, which includes many more big names than merely Death Note aside. There's Bleach for a start, and One-Punch Man, Naruto, Tokyo Ghoul, Pokemon... in fact, you name it and Viz probably has the US rights to hand. Ready to turn it into a live-action project with new business pals UTA.
Meanwhile, each company's respective executives are coming up with broad sweeping soundbites, which look good in print but tell us nothing of real import at all. Like if there will be a Death Note US TV show?
Meanwhile, each company's respective executives are coming up with broad sweeping soundbites, which look good in print but tell us nothing of real import at all. Like if there will be a Death Note US TV show?
We are excited to start this partnership to push the boundaries of storytelling, innovation and character through VIZ Media's prolific portfolio.
~ Howie Sanders, UTA
The UTA partnership represents an important new direction for VIZ Media and our colleagues in Japan. Bringing the rich stories of manga and anime to life in new ways is an exciting opportunity with tremendous potential. UTA is an innovator that shares our vision, and their proven track record and strong relationships throughout the domestic and international entertainment sectors will be important factors as we move forward.
~ Brad Woods, Viz Media, Chief Marketing Officer
But what, if anything, are you doing to Death Note?!
