How *Gannibal* Became Disney+’s Top Live-Action Series in Japan

*Gannibal*, a horror-thriller series about child cannibalism, has become Disney+’s most successful live-action title in Japan, breaking streaming records. Based on a cult manga, the series features high production values and explores deep themes about family within its dark narrative. The success reflects a shift in Japan’s content creation landscape, adapting to international standards and competition from major streaming platforms.

The horror-thriller series Gannibal, which explores the gruesome tradition of cannibalism in a remote Japanese village, has unexpectedly become a significant success for Disney+. This live-action series marks Disney’s first major budget production in Japan and has surpassed 1 million streaming hours within nine days of the release of its second season on March 19, establishing a new record for Disney+ in the region.

Initially skeptical about adapting this horrific tale, Disney executives changed their perspective after engaging with the source material. Gannibal is based on the manga by Masaaki Ninomiya, which, although less mainstream than other titles, garnered cult acclaim. The series introduces Daigo Agawa, a police officer reassigned to a secluded village, where he discovers alarming traditions tied to the Goto family.

The series’ tension arises from Daigo’s conflicts with the Goto clan and their secretive, sinister rituals, particularly during the village’s summer festival. The second season expands on the Goto family’s historical traditions and their patriarch’s struggles, deepening character development and thematic resonance. Disney executives highlighted the universal family protection themes as key motivators for the show’s appeal.

The show’s crew features talented young professionals separate from traditional low-budget Japanese TV productions. Producer Teruhisa Yamamoto indicated that each season’s budget was three times that of typical Japanese live-action series, with filming lasting about six months, aiming for cinematic quality. Notably, over 90% of production took place on location across various prefectures in Japan.

Director Shinzô Katayama sought to enhance the action in season two, balancing intrigue with thrilling confrontations. The second season concludes the manga’s narrative; however, the creative team has discussed possible story expansions but will proceed only with the author’s support.

Yamamoto noted ongoing growth in Japan’s content industry, driven by increasing global interest in Japanese media. The domestic TV landscape is evolving amid competition from major streaming platforms, and producers are exploring what budgets and strategies fit this transformative era. Yamamoto asserted a commitment to quality as a priority for Gannibal and expressed a desire for greater recognition in global live-action TV.

*Gannibal* has emerged as a groundbreaking series for Disney+, achieving record viewership in Japan despite its dark premise. Its unique storytelling and quality production reflect a shift in the Japanese TV industry, adapting to global standards. The series manages to resonate with universal themes surrounding family while exploring unsettling traditions, setting the stage for potential expansions of the story if the original author agrees. Overall, *Gannibal* signifies a promising new direction in live-action Japanese programming.

Original Source: www.hollywoodreporter.com