The upcoming live-action film adaptation of Hiromasa Okujima’s manga series, Baban Baban Ban Vampire, has generated considerable buzz, especially surrounding the character of Ranmaru Mori. A character video highlighting Ranmaru has further amplified the anticipation. This article delves into the details of the film, the character of Ranmaru Mori, and the historical figure that inspired him.
A Bloody Love-Comedy: Baban Baban Ban Vampire
Baban Baban Ban Vampire is a Japanese manga series by Hiromasa Okujima, which began serialization in Akita Shoten’s Bessatsu Shōnen Champion in October 2021. The manga has been described as a “bloody love comedy”.
Storyline
The story revolves around Ranmaru Mori, a 450-year-old vampire who works part-time at Koi no Yu, an old public bathhouse. Ranmaru has a particular craving for the blood of an 18-year-old virgin. He sets his sights on Rihito Tatsuno, the 15-year-old son of the bathhouse owner, and tries to protect him from losing his virginity. Rihito, however, falls in love with his classmate Aoi Shinozuka, which complicates Ranmaru’s plans.
Adaptations
The manga has been adapted into both an anime television series and a live-action film:
- Anime: The anime television series, produced by Gaina, aired from January 11 to March 29, 2025, on TV Asahi.
- Live-Action Film: The live-action film is directed by Shinji Hamasaki, with Yūko Matsuda writing the screenplay. It is produced by Shochiku and TV Asahi. The film is set to release on July 4, 2025, in Japanese theaters.
Ranmaru Mori: The Vampire Samurai
Ranmaru Mori is the central character of Baban Baban Ban Vampire. In the live-action film, he is portrayed by Ryo Yoshizawa.
Character Overview
- Age: 450 years old
- Occupation: Part-time worker at a bathhouse
- True Identity: A vampire with a craving for the blood of an 18-year-old virgin.
- Goal: To protect Rihito Tatsuno’s virginity until he turns 18 so Ranmaru can savor his blood.
- Personality: Despite being a vampire, Ranmaru generally coexists with humans, only feeding on the blood of wrongdoers. However, he finds himself increasingly captivated by Rihito’s charm, leading to an internal conflict between his desires and his principles.
Ranmaru’s Role in the Story
Ranmaru’s character is complex and multifaceted. He is a vampire with a specific craving, yet he also displays a protective and caring side towards Rihito. His internal struggle forms the core of the story, blending vampire lore with elements of comedy and romance.
Actor: Ryo Yoshizawa
Ryo Yoshizawa, who plays Ranmaru Mori, is a well-known Japanese actor. He is known for his roles in other live-action adaptations such as Gintama where he played Sougo Okita.
The Historical Mori Ranmaru
The character of Ranmaru Mori is inspired by a historical figure of the same name who lived during the Sengoku period in Japan.
Historical Background
- Born: 1565? in Mino Province, Japan
- Died: June 21, 1582, Honno-ji, Kyoto
- Also Known As: Mori Naritoshi
- Family: Third son of Mori Yoshinari
- Service: Served Oda Nobunaga from a young age
Role Under Oda Nobunaga
Mori Ranmaru was a close attendant and loyal vassal of Oda Nobunaga. He entered Nobunaga’s service at a young age, along with his younger brothers. Ranmaru was known for his loyalty, bravery, and exceptional skills. He was also known for his beauty, with some accounts describing him as having flawless white skin and a fragrance as lovely as an orchid.
In 1581, Ranmaru was granted an estate in Ōmi and given a promotion to being Nobunaga’s secretary. He was entrusted with important responsibilities and was highly regarded by Nobunaga.
Death at Honno-ji
Mori Ranmaru is best known for his death alongside Oda Nobunaga during the Honno-ji Incident in 1582. Akechi Mitsuhide, one of Nobunaga’s generals, betrayed him and launched a surprise attack on Honno-ji Temple in Kyoto, where Nobunaga was staying.
Ranmaru fought bravely to defend Nobunaga, but they were ultimately overwhelmed. Ranmaru either died defending his lord or committed seppuku (ritual suicide) after helping Nobunaga end his own life.
Legacy
Mori Ranmaru’s loyalty and devotion to Oda Nobunaga have made him a popular figure in Japanese history and folklore. He is often portrayed in stories, dramas, and games as the epitome of a loyal and selfless samurai.
Relationship with Oda Nobunaga
The relationship between Mori Ranmaru and Oda Nobunaga has been romanticized in many Edo-period tales. These stories often depict a homoerotic bond between the two, reflecting the historical practice of nanshoku (male love) in feudal Japan.
Cast Members
The cast includes:
- Ryo Yoshizawa as Ranmaru Mori
- Rihito Itagaki as Rihito Tatsuno
- Nanoka Hara as Aoi Shinozuka
- Gordon Maeda as Nagayoshi Mori
- Shinnosuke Mitsushima as Umetarō Sakamoto
- Mandy Sekiguchi as Ken Shinozuka
Release Date
The live-action film Baban Baban Ban Vampire is scheduled to be released on July 4, 2025, in Japanese theaters.
Conclusion
The live-action film adaptation of Baban Baban Ban Vampire is highly anticipated, especially with Ryo Yoshizawa’s portrayal of Ranmaru Mori. The blend of vampire lore, comedy, and romance, combined with the historical inspiration of Mori Ranmaru, promises a unique and entertaining cinematic experience.
