Blood: The Last Vampire *Updated*

Things are finally moving on this live-action adaptation of the Production I.G. OVA. It seems I've been following the production of this film forever, and after a long drought of images or official news, the film is set to be released in several markets this summer.

Directed by Chris Nahon (Kiss of the Dragon), I think Blood will make a rather successful transfer from the anime thanks to the original's setting in the modern world; no hyper-fantastic characters or world to deal with (ahem--another post to be sure). The European trailer really shows off the stylized action and visuals, though I could do without the poorly written and overacted voice-over.

This is also the first time we've heard lead actress Gianna Jun (aka Jeon Ji-Hyeon) speak and I think any concerns about her English should be put away; anyone who complains now were probably pre-disposed against the film or her and would be better off seeing something else.

Naturally, the film will probably be taking some detours from the anime, as it should, delving into backstory to set up the heroine and her plight. I only hope the chill pathos she displays in the animation will be aptly captured.I also hope it will stray away from the "Ooohhh I'm sooo Evil" villain. Considering this role is being played by The Last Samurai's Koyuki, there should be more dimension to her character than the drawings from which the animation was created.


Here is the link to the Official Japanese Site. It streams a briefer teaser, but should be uploaded with goodies as the release date approaches.

**Update**
The official full Japanese trailer is now online over at Yahoo Japan.