The Like a Dragon: Yakuza live-action adaptation actually filmed a Karaoke scene but didn’t use it on the show

‘Like a Dragon: Yakuza’, the live-action adaptation of the Sega game franchise of the same names by Prime Video, was finally released on the streaming platform on October 24, 2024. However, it’s reception has been mixed, with fans of the games claiming that the series doesn’t capture the spirit of the games correctly, while others feel like it’s a great production. One of the main criticisms is the deviation from the silliness inherent to the game franchise which contrasts the seriousness of its plot. But as it turns out, the producers did replicate and film a beloved silly meme of the games involving Karaoke.

Actor Ryoma Takeuchi took the stand at a karaoke bar to sing Baka Mitai, the famous japanese ballad that became a bit of a meme for the series a few years ago and that is still beloved by fans of the games. Karaoke was an important part of the games for years as it became a mainstay mini-game of the franchise, typically seeing the protagonists of the games losing their inhibitions and pumping out some suave tunes.

What is the Like a Dragon: Yakuza series about?

According to the official synopsis, this Japanese action drama plunges into the dark underworld of the yakuza, exploring the universal theme of family not only through bloodline but also through ties between yakuza bosses and their underlings, orphans and their caretakers, as well as mentors and students. These relationships are marked by deep affection at times, and by intense conflict at others, all intricately intertwined. Set in the fictional town of Kamurocho, the story unfolds across two intersecting timelines—1995 and 2005.

In 1995, eager to escape their restrictive lives, Kiryu and his friends, Nishiki, Yumi, and Miho plan a heist at a local arcade. However, the arcade is under the control of the Dojima Family, a powerful yakuza organization that rules Kamurocho. They dive into the yakuza-controlled underworld of 1995 Kamurocho. Meanwhile, in 2005, Kiryu is set to be released from prison. He learns from Detective Date that his friends are in danger and decides to return to Kamurocho to protect them. However, their friendship has deteriorated, as tensions between the Tojo Clan and the Omi Alliance are at a boiling point.

Like a Dragon: Yakuza just released its first three episodes, available to stream on Prime Video.

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