The world of Boys Love manga continues to captivate audiences, and fans are in for a cinematic treat! Mamita's beloved series, "10 Things I Want to Do Before I Turn 40," is officially receiving a live-action film adaptation. This exciting news comes as the live-action TV series has already garnered significant attention, and the upcoming movie promises to bring the heartwarming and humorous story to an even broader audience. The film is slated for a January 22, 2027 release, building anticipation for what promises to be a significant event for its dedicated fanbase.
Film Production Details
The live-action film is set to feature the return of the talented cast and crew from the successful television series. This continuity ensures a consistent vision and familiar faces for viewers who have already fallen in love with the characters and their journey. Chihiro Ikeda, who brought the series to life, will be returning to direct the film, guiding the narrative with a skilled hand. The screenplay is penned by Yō Saitō, guaranteeing that the film will retain the authentic charm and emotional depth of Mamita's original work. The collaboration of these experienced individuals underscores the commitment to delivering a high-quality adaptation that honors the source material.
The Heartwarming Story Unveiled
Seven Seas Entertainment, the licensed publisher for the manga, eloquently describes the engaging premise of "10 Things I Want to Do Before I Turn 40." The story centers on Suzume Tōjō, who finds himself just three months shy of his fortieth birthday with a profound realization: there are so many life experiences he has yet to embrace. This prompts him to create a very personal list of ten things he desires to accomplish before reaching the milestone age. His list comprises seemingly simple joys, such as hosting a takoyaki party, savoring a parfait in a cafe, and celebrating his birthday with a lover. However, the last item presents a considerable challenge for Tōjō, who has not experienced romance in a decade. His life takes an unexpected turn when Keishi Tanaka, his handsome junior colleague, stumbles upon this secret list. Tanaka, with a charming determination, resolves to help Tōjō fulfill every item on his list, starting with the most challenging: finding a lover. This delightful setup forms the core of a touching and romantic Boys Love narrative.
Bringing Characters to Life: The Cast
The compelling characters of Suzume Tōjō and Keishi Tanaka are portrayed by an accomplished cast. Shunsuke Kazama takes on the role of Suzume Tōjō, embodying the character's introspection and journey of self-discovery. Kōhei Shōji plays Keishi Tanaka, bringing to life the charismatic and supportive junior who sparks new romance in Tōjō's life. Their chemistry on screen is a crucial element that fans of the series have come to appreciate, and their return for the film promises to deepen the emotional connection with the audience. The reprisal of these roles ensures a seamless transition from the episodic series to the feature-length film.
From Series to Silver Screen
The live-action series, which paved the way for this exciting film adaptation, first premiered on July 4, 2025. It aired across several prominent Japanese television channels, including TV Tokyo, TV Osaka, TV Aichi, TV Setouchi, TV Hokkaido, and TVQ. Beyond broadcast television, the series was also accessible through popular streaming services in Japan, such as Lemino, U-NEXT, TV Tokyo HP, and TVer, allowing a wide audience to engage with Tōjō and Tanaka's story. Chihiro Ikeda, who directs the upcoming film, co-directed the series alongside Noriaki Kosuge. The series scripts were also penned by Yō Saitō, ensuring a consistent storytelling voice. Erina Koyama composed the music, adding another layer of emotional resonance to the production. The success and positive reception of the series undoubtedly fueled the decision to expand the adaptation into a feature film, signaling its enduring appeal.
The Manga's Origins and Reach
Mamita originally launched "10 Things I Want to Do Before I Turn 40" in Libre Publishing's Be x Boy magazine in 2022. The manga quickly found a dedicated readership, culminating in its second and final volume release on February 19, 2025. The manga's popularity extends beyond Japan, thanks to Seven Seas Entertainment, which licensed the series for English-speaking audiences. The first volume was released on May 6, allowing international fans to dive into Tōjō's journey and Tanaka's supportive presence. Mamita is also known for other works, with Seven Seas releasing "Wanna Be My Dress-Up Lover?" and "Natsume Wants to be Trained." SuBLime previously brought "The Metalhead Next Door" to readers, showcasing Mamita's diverse contributions to the Boys Love genre. The original manga's success laid a strong foundation for both its television and now its cinematic adaptation.
Looking Ahead to 2027
With the live-action film confirmed for January 22, 2027, fans have much to anticipate. The return of the beloved cast and a skilled creative team guarantees that the essence of Mamita's heartwarming Boys Love story will be faithfully and beautifully translated to the big screen. Whether you are a long-time admirer of the manga or a new fan introduced through the live-action series, the upcoming film promises to be a memorable addition to the rich tapestry of Boys Love adaptations, offering a poignant and engaging cinematic experience.
