Maybe Fairy Tail is not as famous as the biggest Shonen manga series, but it has a special and loved position among many fans. This anime was, for lots of people, their first step into the fascinating world of anime.
In the center of this mythical world is a big group of lively and amusing characters, mainly from different wizard guilds. In the land of fantasy, magic is common and wizards join guilds that are spread across Fiore country. According to its creator, Hiro Mashima, Fairy Tail stands as his most accomplished creation.
Hiro Mashima Wishes for Johnny Depp in Fairy Tail Live-Action Adaptation
Fans have frequently criticized live-action adaptations of anime series. In fact, there are some adaptations that have been so poorly received and despised that fans are now afraid of seeing their beloved anime series being misinterpreted on the big screen.
However, it is important to mention that some live-action anime adaptations, like One Piece, have been accepted well. The negative instances might appear more frequently as they are more likely to become viral or discussed.
Even the not-so-good movies can be seen as beneficial for both fans and the respective franchises – if only in experience. Similar to other types of films, live-action anime adaptations are constantly evolving and can improve themselves with time.
Similar to followers of other anime shows, fans of Fairy Tail have also shown interest in seeing a live-action version made. However, given the vibrant and entertaining personalities of the characters in the original animated version, it sparks debate about who could best represent these roles if they were to be portrayed by actors.
During an interview, the creator of Fairy Tail, Hiro Mashima, was questioned about how he would select actors for an American live-action version.
“The one that comes to mind is Johnny Depp for Happy (the blue cat)! (laughs) Having this turn into a live action film would be a dream come true for me.”
While unconventional, the creator’s casting idea highlights the creative possibilities that could make a live-action anime adaptation unique and appealing to fans.
How Hiro Mashima’s Lack of a Father Figure Impacted His Stories
Hiro Mashima’s father was also an artist but he died when Mashima was very young. Losing his dad at such a tender age affected him deeply and he later included this personal experience into his shōnen fiction works. The main characters in both of his famous series like Fairy Tail and Rave Master do not have fathers actively involved in their lives.
For example, in the situation of Natsu Dragneel from Fairy Tail, he was brought up by a dragon called Igneel who looked after him like his own father. The real family history of Natsu stayed unknown for a significant time, while Lucy knew her dad Jude until she started on her trip to make her way in life.
In shōnen narratives, it’s almost expected that main characters don’t have dad figures around during their important growing-up years. But, in Mashima’s manga series, this trope has a more individual meaning. It is probably shaped by his own life of not having a father during his childhood.
You can watch Fairy Tail on Crunchyroll.
