Gintama Live Action Is Definitely Real, and it Needs Extras in Japan

Gintama fans can now rest assure-- the live action movie is not another troll from the studio or the mangaka Hideaki Sorachi.

Following confirmation that the Shun Oguri (Lupin III, Space Brothers) will play the role of Gintoki Sakata, new information has come to light. Specifically, the production is seeking extras who could give their time to the film from early July to early September.

Thanks to Anime News Network, there's already an ad fans can use to apply, though it is only in Japanese. Even minors can apply as an extra though they would need parental permission. Anyone can participate, but those who will be chosen cannot share images or details of the set, bring non-extra friends or ask for autographs or handshakes from the cast members. The shooting location will be held somewhere in Tokyo.

Fans may enjoy the extra roles, since these are on a volunteer basis, as no travel or lodging compensation will be provided. However, there will be prizes, though not detailed as of writing.

The live action film already has its own website. For those who are still wondering if it's a joke or not, Warner Bros. Pictures is tagged to the film. Now the only question is whether Oguri-san will fit the role to a G, and whether fans will be receptive on a new face and voice to the white-haired samurai.

After all, Tomokazu Sugita has been tagged to the protagonist not only as Gintoki's voice for the television anime, but also to the many Gintama Matsuri celebrations. Personally, I'm one of those who still hears Sugita-san's voice even when reading the manga, so there's still reservations. So, we'll wait and see.

The Gintama live-action film is set to release sometime in 2017.