Death Note (2017) Movie Review: A Disappointing Adaptation of a Beloved Manga
“Death Note,” directed by Adam Wingard and released in 2017, is a live-action adaptation of the popular Japanese manga and anime series of the same name. The film attempts to bring the dark and intricate world of “Death Note” to a Western audience, but it has struggled to resonate with both fans of the original series and newcomers alike. Despite its intriguing premise and some interesting casting choices, the film ultimately fails to capture the essence and complexity of the source material.
Plot Overview
The film centers around Light Turner (Nat Wolff), a high school student who stumbles upon a mysterious notebook that grants him the power to kill anyone whose name he writes in it, as long as he knows their face. This notebook, known as the Death Note, is a powerful artifact from the Shinigami world, and Light soon finds himself in a deadly game of cat and mouse as he uses it to rid the world of criminals.
As Light adopts the alias “Kira” and gains notoriety for his actions, he draws the attention of law enforcement agencies and a brilliant detective known only as “L” (Lakeith Stanfield). The film explores the moral and psychological consequences of wielding such immense power and the ensuing battle of wits between Light and L.
Character Dynamics and Performances
Nat Wolff’s portrayal of Light Turner attempts to capture the character’s ambitious and morally ambiguous nature. However, his performance is often overshadowed by the film’s weak script and pacing issues. Wolff’s interpretation of Light lacks the depth and complexity that made the character compelling in the manga and anime.
Lakeith Stanfield’s portrayal of L is one of the film’s standout elements, bringing a unique and eccentric presence to the character. Stanfield’s performance offers a glimpse of the brilliance and intensity that the role requires, but it is not enough to elevate the film as a whole.
Margaret Qualley, who plays Mia Sutton (the film’s version of Misa Amane), provides a decent performance but is limited by the film’s rushed development of her character. The dynamics between Light and Mia lack the intricate emotional and psychological layers present in the original series.
Visual Style and Production Design
“Death Note” features a modern American setting, which contrasts with the Japanese setting of the original series. The film’s visual style is dark and atmospheric, with a focus on creating a sense of foreboding and tension. The production design includes various scenes with a macabre aesthetic, reflecting the film’s supernatural themes.
Despite these efforts, the film’s visuals and special effects are inconsistent. The Death Note itself and the Shinigami Ryuk (voiced by Willem Dafoe) are among the film’s more successfully realized elements. Dafoe’s voice work for Ryuk adds a layer of menace and dark humor to the character, though Ryuk’s role is limited by the film’s overall execution.
Themes and Execution
The film attempts to explore themes of power, justice, and morality, which are central to the original “Death Note” series. However, its execution falls short, with a narrative that feels rushed and lacks the depth needed to fully engage with these themes. The film’s portrayal of Light’s moral descent and the psychological game between him and L is simplified compared to the source material, resulting in a less impactful experience.
The film’s attempt to condense complex storylines and character arcs into a feature-length format leads to a disjointed and uneven narrative. Key plot points and character motivations are not adequately developed, making it difficult for viewers to fully invest in the story.
Reception and Legacy
“Death Note” received mixed to negative reviews from critics and fans. Critics pointed out the film’s lackluster adaptation of the beloved manga and anime, its weak character development, and its failure to capture the intricate and psychological elements of the source material. Fans of the original series were particularly disappointed by the film’s deviation from the manga’s core elements and its failure to live up to the high expectations set by the anime.
Despite its shortcomings, “Death Note” may still be of interest to viewers who are curious about Western adaptations of Japanese media or those looking for a supernatural thriller with a modern twist. However, it is unlikely to satisfy dedicated fans of the original series.
Streaming and Purchase Options in America
For those interested in watching “Death Note,” the film is available for streaming on Netflix, where it was released as an original film. It is also available for rental or purchase on platforms like Google Play Movies, YouTube, and iTunes. These options provide flexibility for viewers to choose the most convenient way to watch the film.
Conclusion
“Death Note” (2017) is a live-action adaptation that struggles to live up to the legacy of its source material. While the film features some strong performances and a visually engaging style, it falls short in terms of character development and narrative depth. The film’s rushed and simplified approach to the complex themes and storylines of the original “Death Note” series results in a disappointing experience for both fans and newcomers.
For those interested in a modern take on the “Death Note” concept or seeking a supernatural thriller, the film may offer some entertainment. However, viewers looking for a faithful and impactful adaptation of the beloved manga and anime are likely to be let down. The film serves as a reminder of the challenges involved in adapting complex and cherished stories for a new audience.
