"Hakushon Daimao" is Tatsunoko Production's masterpiece anime that was aired during 1969 ~ 1970, and this will be the first time for it to get a live-action adaptation.

The story starts when a schoolboy "Yotayama Kanichi (= Kan-chan)" finds a mysterious bottle in the attic of his house. At the moment he sneezes, a genie named "Hakushon Daimao" jumps out of the bottle to grant the wish of whoever sneezes, with his messy magic.

This live-action adaptation will be include comedic elements along with some serious topics, aiming to be labeled as a "heart-warming comedy". Reportedly, Murakami wears special effects makeup to become the Hakushon Daimao.

It was also revealed that Watanabe Konomi will play "Akubi", the daughter of Hakushon Daimao, Mabuchi Homare will play "Kan-chan", Nukumizu Yoichi will play Kan-chan's father, and Shiraishi Miho will play Kan-chan's mother. 

Other cast members include Ozawa Maju, Katsurayama Shingo, Natsumi, Yamamura Momiji, and Shiratori Kumiko (of comedy duo Tanpopo).

Murakami will also sing the theme song "Hakushon Daimao no Uta" which will be the cover of the anime version's theme song. 

Special drama "Hakushon Daimao (tentative)" is scheduled to be aired sometime in this fall on Fuji TV.

Source: TOWER RECORDS ONLINE + Sanspo (1+2)

Image: Fuji TV