In a recent interview with South China Morning Post, renowned actor Sung Kang, known for his role as Han in the Fast & Furious franchise, revealed exciting news for fans of Shuichi Shigeno’s iconic manga series, Initial D. Kang disclosed that he will be taking the helm as both director and producer for the highly-anticipated second live-action adaptation of Initial D.
Kang’s passion for automobiles is well-known, and he expressed his enthusiasm for this project as an exploration of “cars, drifting, and all things cool.” Drawing inspiration from cinematic classics like Rocky and The Karate Kid, Kang assures fans that this will be a high-budget production, reflecting his genuine love for cars.
One thrilling revelation is Kang’s decision to feature the legendary AE86 Corolla from the series, a move that undoubtedly resonates with die-hard Initial D enthusiasts. To bring this vision to life, Kang enlisted the expertise of Akira Nakai from RAUH-Welt BEGRIFF (RWB) to craft the iconic vehicle.
While further details about the film remain under wraps, Kang’s commitment to this project is palpable, promising an authentic and exhilarating cinematic experience for fans and newcomers alike.
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Initial D, originally serialized in Kodansha’s Weekly Young Magazine, has captivated audiences with its adrenaline-pumping street racing narrative since 1995. With over 55 million copies in circulation as of April 2021, it’s evident that the series continues to leave an indelible mark on fans worldwide.
The plot follows Takumi Fujiwara, an initially disinterested youth, whose chance encounter with a rival racing team on the Akina Pass sparks a transformation into a drift racing legend. Through a series of thrilling races, Takumi discovers his love for street racing and faces off against a myriad of opponents, solidifying his status as the enigmatic “Ghost of Akina.”
As fans eagerly await further updates on this exciting project, Kang’s involvement ensures that Initial D’s live-action adaptation is in capable and passionate hands.
Source: South China Morning Post
