Author Says Sayuri Live-Action Adaptation Changed His Story Despite His Involvement

The Sayuri live-action adaptation has drawn renewed attention after the original author stated that his story was altered, even though he was directly involved in the project. Manga artist Rensuke Oshikiri revealed that he tried to take an active role in the production of the 2024 film but ended up frustrated with the changes made to the original narrative.

The Sayuri live-action adaptation and the creator’s frustration

According to Oshikiri, manga creators usually have little influence over film adaptations of their work. However, in the case of the Sayuri live-action adaptation, he decided to invest some of his own money in order to join the production committee. His goal was simple: to have a voice in the creative decisions and preserve the essence of the story.

In the original manga, Sayuri features a dark atmosphere focused mainly on supernatural horror involving a poltergeist and the process of exorcism. In the Sayuri live-action adaptation, however, the production introduced new elements such as child abuse themes, shifting part of the focus toward human conflicts beyond the supernatural.

Another change that bothered the author was the tone of the film. While the manga maintains a heavier and more disturbing approach, the movie incorporated moments of humor, creating a significant contrast with the original concept. Oshikiri himself admitted that he complained a lot during development, but his suggestions were not fully reflected in the final product.

Even so, the author made it clear that he holds no resentment toward the director or the staff involved. After the commercial success of the Sayuri live-action adaptation, he began to see the film as a separate work, independent from the manga. In his view, if audiences were pleased with the result, that also has its own value.

Interestingly, the experience with the Sayuri live-action adaptation influenced his career path. Oshikiri had previously directed the original net animation The House Spirit Tatami-chan and is currently working on his own independent project, seeking greater creative control.

The author also commented that his motivation to create new manga has decreased in recent years. According to him, the rise of video entertainment has changed audience habits, making it increasingly difficult to compete for fans’ attention through print publications alone.